CEO of Oman Exhibition Centre elected as president of UFI

Eng. Said bin Salim Al Shanfari, CEO of the Oman Convention and Exhibition Centre, is set to assume a significant international role as the president of the Global Association of the Exhibition Industry (UFI) for the 2027-2028 term. This appointment marks a historic moment, as Al Shanfari will be the first Omani and the first Arab individual to lead the UFI since its establishment over a century ago.

The election, announced during a UFI board meeting in Izmir, Turkey, underscores Oman's rising prominence in the global landscape of exhibitions, conferences, and business events. Al Shanfari is slated to officially take over the presidency during the UFI's 94th World Congress in Guadalajara, Mexico, in November 2027. His leadership is expected to enhance the presence of the Middle East and Africa region within the industry's decision-making circles.

This development is particularly timely as the Sultanate of Oman experiences robust growth in its business tourism sector. Continuous investments in infrastructure, specialized facilities, and a consistent track record of hosting major regional and international events have solidified Oman's position as a key business hub. The UFI presidency is seen as a catalyst for further elevating the region's expertise and vision on a global scale, fostering growth in emerging markets, and expanding opportunities for international collaboration, investment, and knowledge exchange.

Al Shanfari expressed his enthusiasm for the role, stating his commitment to working with UFI members and partners worldwide. His vision includes fostering a more interconnected, sustainable, and innovative future for the exhibition industry, strengthening its contribution to economic development, and opening new avenues for global cooperation. The Oman Convention and Exhibition Centre has been instrumental in this progress, hosting significant events that have boosted business tourism and generated substantial economic value for the nation.

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I look forward to working with the UFI members and partners around the world, to establish a more interconnected, sustainable and innovative future for this vital industry, enhance its role in supporting economic development and open up new vistas for international cooperation.