The UAE is set to host a remarkable lineup of global conferences, exhibitions and festivals in April, reinforcing its role as a premier destination for business, culture and innovation. From cutting-edge AI summits to major travel expos, the month will bring together experts, industry leaders, and enthusiasts from around the world. Here’s a look at some of the most anticipated events happening across Abu Dhabi, Dubai and Sharjah this month.
Abu Dhabi
The UAE capital will witness high-profile gatherings, starting with the AIM Investment Summit at Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre (ADNEC) from 7 to 9 April. Expected to welcome over 25,000 participants from 170 countries, the event will focus on sustainable development and global investment trends. Running alongside it, the World Crisis and Emergency Management Summit will take place on 8 and 9 April, also at ADNEC, where global experts will discuss strategic initiatives in disaster response and crisis preparedness.
Healthcare innovation will be the focus at Abu Dhabi Global Healthcare Week from 15 to 17 April, bringing together over 15,000 participants to explore advancements in medical technology, also taking place at ADNEC. The World Local Production Forum will address sustainable local production, technology transfer and fair access to high-quality health products, taking place at ADNEC from 15 to 17 April.
Later in the month, the Culture Summit Abu Dhabi, taking place from 27 to 29 April at Manarat Al Saadiyat, will highlight the intersection of culture and humanity, fostering discussions among global thought leaders. Wrapping up the month, the International Federation of Air Traffic Controllers' Associations Conference in will convene industry professionals from 28 April to 2 May at ADNEC to discuss the latest developments in air traffic management.
Dubai
Dubai will host a diverse range of events across multiple industries. The month begins with Middle East Energy, from 7 to 9 April at Dubai World Trade Centre (DWTC), spotlighting the latest in renewable energy and sustainability. The venue will also welcome Dubai Derma, from 14 to 16 April, the region’s premier dermatology and skincare exhibition, and the International Property Show, from 14 to 16 April, which serves as a marketplace for global real estate investors. Dubai Entertainment, Amusement and Leisure Expo will take place at DWTC from 8 to 10 April, bringing together operators and exhibitors from around the world focusing on family entertainment centres, theme parks, arcades, VR zones, and more.
On 12 and 13 April, Dubai Exhibition Centre at Expo City Dubai will host Global Justic, Peace and Love Summit, bringing together over 2,800 peace advocates from around the world.
AI and technology take centre stage during the Dubai AI Week, happening across venues including Museum of the Future, Emirates Towers and Madinat Jumeirah from 21 to 25 April, featuring the Machines Can See Summit and Dubai AI Festival, expected to draw over 8,000 AI experts and investors. The esports community will also converge for the Dubai Esports and Games Festival at DWTC from 25 April to 11 May, showcasing tournaments, cosplay and interactive gaming experiences.
Travel and tourism professionals will gather at the Arabian Travel Market at DWTC from 28 April to 1 May, featuring 2,600 exhibitors from over 161 countries. On the cultural front, World Art Dubai in DWTC, running from 17 to 20 April, will bring together over 400 artists and galleries, offering an accessible marketplace for collectors and art lovers. Meanwhile, pet enthusiasts can enjoy Pet World Arabia at DWTC on 19 and 20 April, featuring live competitions, grooming showcases and industry networking.
Sharjah
Sharjah will add to the vibrant lineup with two standout events. The Sharjah Children’s Reading Festival, running from 23 April to 4 May at Expo Centre Sharjah, will offer book releases, interactive workshops, and theatrical performances tailored for young readers.
On the sports front, Al Khan Beach will host the Ocean Man Championship on 19 and 20 April, bringing together swimmers of all skill levels for endurance races in open water, further cementing the emirate’s reputation as a destination for outdoor sports.
With a packed calendar spanning investment, healthcare, technology, arts, travel, gaming and sports, April promises to be a landmark month for the UAE.