The global leisure and entertainment industry is set to reach a value of $31.8 billion in the next three years, said the organisers of an upcoming leisure and entertainment show in Dubai, UAE.

Co-located with The Hotel Show Dubai, The Leisure Show will run from September 28 to 30 at the Dubai World Trade Centre.

“Tourism has been a catalyst for the growth of the global entertainment and leisure industries,” said Christine Davidson, The Hotel Show Dubai’s event director.

The upcoming theme park projects in the GCC include the development of IMG World of Adventure in Dubai (at an estimated cost of $1.08 billion), the indoor Majarat Oman theme park ($299 million), the re-launch of the Jungle Zone theme park in Qatar and the construction of Red Sea Astrarium in Jordan, she highlighted.

The Leisure Show will cater to four main sectors: Outdoor design, Furniture & Lighting, Pool and Spa, Sports & Fitness, Recreational Fun and Adventure.

The spa industry across the UAE is currently valued in excess of Dh2.6 billion ($707.7 million) with the hotel and resort spa market alone generating value of Dh1.2 billion ($326 million).  The UAE is also one of the biggest growth markets for sports and fitness equipment as hotels invest in spa, sports and recreational facilities to differentiate their offering in a competitive market, said Davidson.

“Travel to the Middle East is expected to grow strongly over the next 10 years, with the region’s strategic location and investment in airports and infrastructure, establishing it as an important global hub,” said Davidson.

“Combining this with future Mega Events to be held in the region, the development of leisure and entertainment attractions for international visitors is creating a wealth of opportunities for the regional and international industry.”

Global suppliers from France, Italy, China, France, Finland, Portugal, UK, Canada, Spain, Belgium, US and the UAE will take part in The Leisure Show to meet those involved in many outdoor, leisure and entertainment projects in the region.

The educational Vision Conference at The Hotel Show Dubai will feature 86 of the industry’s top speakers who will address specific topics and themes on leisure which focus on important developments and trends. – TradeArabia News Service