The emirate of Sharjah hosted the 2025 World Trade Centers Association (WTCA) Middle East Members Conference, organized by Expo Centre Sharjah. This significant event brought together leaders and representatives from the region’s growing network of 18 World Trade Center businesses.

The conference took place at the Sharjah Chamber of Commerce and Industry (SCCI) headquarters. It was attended by Saif Mohammed Al Midfa, CEO of Expo Centre Sharjah and a member of WTCA’s Conferences and Exhibitions Advisory Council, alongside Mohamed Juma Al Musharrkh, CEO of the Sharjah FDI Office (Invest in Sharjah), as well as various officials from the Sharjah Chamber and Expo Centre Sharjah.

The agenda of the conference focused on key themes aimed at strengthening international trade through collaborative efforts and the complementary roles of WTCA Members. Participants emphasized the necessity of accelerating digital transformation within the exhibitions sector and establishing a unified platform for sharing data and expertise among World Trade Centers in the Middle East. This initiative aims to enhance competitiveness, attract investments, and foster innovation.

Saif Mohammed Al Midfa remarked that hosting the inaugural WTCA Middle East Members Conference showcases Sharjah’s prominent role in the global exhibitions and conferences industry. He expressed that Expo Centre Sharjah is dedicated to enhancing regional and international cooperation to improve the exhibitions sector, optimize operational efficiency, support sustainable development, and play a crucial role in various economic sectors.

According to MSN, during the conference, Mohamed Juma Al Musharrkh provided a detailed overview of Sharjah’s promising investment opportunities and its competitive advantages for foreign investors. He highlighted the emirate’s world-class infrastructure, specialized free zones, and integrated transport systems. Additionally, he pointed out Sharjah’s pro-investment regulatory framework designed to facilitate business scalability, ensure operational ease, and streamline the establishment of new ventures.

Discussions during the conference highlighted the strategic necessity of enhancing cooperation among WTCA Middle East Members. Speakers underlined the importance of coordinated efforts in promoting international trade and supporting the region’s economic development goals.

Ahmed Tibaoui, General Manager and CEO of WTC Algiers, noted that regional integration is essential for increasing the operational effectiveness of the exhibitions industry and strengthening its contribution to sustainable growth.

Crystal Edn, WTCA Executive Director, delivered a comprehensive presentation detailing WTCA’s global initiatives and strategic programs aimed at supporting World Trade Centers and expanding their contributions to the global economy.

Milan Ramjee, WTCA Membership Lead for Africa and the Middle East, emphasized ongoing efforts to empower WTCA regional members through tailored tools and services that streamline international trade and promote sustainable economic growth both locally and regionally.

Throughout the conference, participants reviewed successful case studies from regional World Trade Centers, including Expo Centre Sharjah, as well as those in Algiers, Cairo, and Riyadh. These presentations allowed attendees to explore best practices and scalable growth models while discussing effective strategies to enhance the role of World Trade Centers. There was a consensus on the vital role of innovation and digital transformation in driving sustainable progress.