KSA Business: MEA leisure industry spending to hit $609m in 2023, says report – Gulf Digital News

KSA Business: MEA leisure industry spending to hit $609m in 2023, says report – Gulf Digital News

Spending in leisure, amusement and theme parks in the Middle East and Africa is expected to reach $609 million in 2023, said a report issued by International Association of Amusement Parks and Attractions (IAAPA), ahead of the upcoming Saudi Theme Parks and Entertainment Confex.

More than 250 industry experts from 20 countries will discuss challenges and opportunities at the event takin place at the Raddison Blu, Riyadh on March 6, 2023.

The day-long convention takes place at a time when the leisure industry has started to grow at an exponential rate following the Covid-19 pandemic and boosted by the Expo 2020 and FIFA World Cup Football in Qatar that kicks off in a few days’ time.

The event announcement comes just a few days after Abu Dhabi's Miral Asset Management had launched a new group identity to streamline the delivery of Dh13 billion ($3.5 billion) worth of leisure and cultural projects across the emirate.

“Trade, tourism and retail are key economic growth drivers that will push the economies of the GCC countries in the years to come. These sectors are playing a pivotal role in diversifying the economy of the Gulf countries and will play even greater role in the economy,” said Nizam Deen,