The decision follows an assessment of the current
geopolitical context and consultations with industry stakeholders and local
authorities. The Dubai edition has been rescheduled to June 2028.
According to IFES, the relocation aims to ensure that its international
community can meet in an environment that offers stability, accessibility and
operational confidence, while maintaining the importance of in-person
engagement.
“Our priority is to
ensure that members can come together in 2026 in a safe and secure environment,
while preserving the value of meeting in person and making the most of our
global gathering,” said Jörg
Zeissig, President of IFES.
The 2026 summit will be held under the theme “Navigating
Change, Shaping What’s Next” and will focus on dialogue,
strategic exchange and active member participation.
Munich has been selected as a host city due to its
established position as a leading European hub for international exhibitions
and business events, supported by advanced infrastructure and global
connectivity.
“In times of change, it becomes even more important for our community to stay connected and aligned,” said Jörg Zeissig. “The decision to adapt our 2026 gathering reflects our responsibility to our members and our commitment to creating a meaningful platform for exchange. Munich offers us the opportunity to come together in a focused and constructive way to listen, to share and to shape what comes next, together.”
The revised format is designed to enhance interaction,
collaboration and alignment across the exhibition and events value chain,
positioning the summit as a platform for industry-wide exchange and
coordination.
“This decision
reflects our commitment to balancing care, continuity and community,” said Gregor Bischkopf,
Executive Director of IFES. “We remain dedicated to
creating a meaningful opportunity for the IFES network to connect, collaborate
and move forward together in person in 2026.”
IFES also acknowledged its partners and members in the
Middle East, noting that the original plan to host the summit in Dubai could
not proceed as scheduled.
“We would also like to express our sincere gratitude to our partners and
members in the Middle East, and we deeply regret that we are not able to
welcome our global community together in Dubai this year as originally planned.
We extend our respect to all those affected by the current situation and thank
our members for their understanding, flexibility and continued support.”
The World Summit remains a central component of the
IFES calendar, with further details on the Munich edition, including venue,
accommodation and programme, to be announced in due course.
Tags: Munich Jörg Zeissig, IFES