MICE Expo 2026 Education Programme has officially been announced as a major new initiative from M&I in collaboration with IAEE, MPI and SITE. The programme will be launched at the upcoming M&I Expo, set to take place from 14 to 16 April 2026 at ADNEC in Abu Dhabi.
This partnership brings together the Global MICE Collaborative, a joint initiative of the three globally respected associations, to lead a powerful new educational offering. The goal is to equip senior MICE buyers with the tools, insight and strategic thinking needed to navigate a rapidly evolving business events landscape.
Richard Barnes, CEO of M&I, introduced the programme during the launch of M&I Expo at IMEX Frankfurt. He emphasized that this is more than just content – it’s about delivering real, long-term value to the elite professionals shaping the future of the MICE sector.
“We’re partnering with three of the best-known associations in the industry: IAEE, MPI and SITE. M&I Expo is built for the MICE 1,000 – the most influential minds in the space. So we aimed high and chose the best to deliver a best-in-class learning experience,” said Barnes.
Paul Van Deventer, CEO of MPI, spoke on behalf of the Global MICE Collaborative. He underlined their shared commitment to advancing the industry’s future by offering structured education, deep insights and global dialogue.
“We’re excited to bring our education to the first M&I Expo in 2026. This is about empowering professionals with the knowledge, skills and partnerships they need to thrive.”
What to Expect from the MICE Expo 2026 Education Programme
The MICE Expo 2026 Education Programme is just one part of a larger shift in the global events space. This new exhibition format builds on the success of M&I Fest Global, which first launched in Marrakesh in 2024 and sold out again in 2025.
At the Abu Dhabi event, participants will engage with a handpicked selection of the world’s top tourism boards, hotel groups, DMCs, convention bureaus and tech providers. Brands will activate through storytelling-led booths, immersive design, and human connection.
Names such as Hilton, Marriott, IHG, Meet in Austria, Visit Hungary, and Van der Valk were recently featured at M&I Fest Global, with discussions already in progress for their involvement in M&I Expo 2026.
The signature element of M&I events remains at the core – one-to-one pre-scheduled meetings. These curated sessions allow for deeper, more efficient connections between senior-level buyers and global suppliers.
In addition, hosted lunches and evening social events round out a fully inclusive networking experience designed to foster long-term business relationships, not just brief introductions.
M&I Expo 2026 is not just an event. It’s a reset button for the future of business events.
