8th MENALAC L.E.A. CEO CONCLAVE 2025

8th MENALAC L.E.A. CEO CONCLAVE 2025

Location: Taj Dubai, Business Bay, Dubai, UAE
Event Date: April 7, 2025

AED 1,000  

  • USD: 272$

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8th MENALAC L.E.A. CEO CONCLAVE 2025

Where Industry Titans Shape the Future of Leisure & Entertainment

April 7, 2025 | Taj Dubai | 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM

 

The 8th Annual MENALAC L.E.A. CEO Conclave isn’t just another industry event—it’s the definitive gathering where the MENA leisure and attractions industry’s future is crafted in real-time.

This April, over 150 industry titans, visionary leaders, pioneering experts, C-level executives and senior management professionals from leading regional operators, global manufacturers, suppliers, consultants, and service providers will converge for an electrifying day of forward-thinking dialogue and transformative insights. From economics and digital transformation to sustainable operations and innovative guest experiences, no stone will be left unturned in our collective pursuit of industry excellence.

The stakes couldn’t be higher. As our industry faces unprecedented challenges and opportunities, those in attendance will gain privileged access to market intelligence, emerging trends, and strategic foresight that simply can’t be found elsewhere. This is your chance to engage with the minds that are driving the industry forward, setting the trends, and tackling the challenges that shape the landscape of leisure and entertainment in the region. Your competitors will be there—can you afford not to be?

Our carefully curated agenda addresses the most pressing challenges facing our industry today:

  • Economics and inflation impacts reshaping business models
  • Digital transformation revolutionizing guest experiences
  • Next-generation attraction design and development
  • Cultural sensitivities in regional entertainment
  • Sustainable operations amidst evolving consumer expectations
  • Workforce development in a changing landscape

 

THE AGENDA IS CRYSTALLIZING. THE SPEAKERS ARE CONFIRMING. THE ROOM IS FILLING.

Those who attend will leave armed with actionable insights, powerful connections, and a competitive edge that will drive business success throughout 2025 and beyond.

BE IN THE ROOM. DON’T MISS OUT.

PROGRAM INCLUSIONS:

  • Powerful Keynotes and Thought-Provoking Panels
  • Unmatched Networking Opportunities
  • Insightful Discussions by Industry for Industry
  • A Full House of Industry Leaders
  • Networking Lunch

TICKET PRICES:

Members: AED 800 + 5% VAT
Non-members: AED 1,000 + 5% VAT

TENTATIVE PROGRAM:

From a powerful keynote address on global economy to digital transformation and dynamic pricing strategies to attractions reimagined and navigating staffing challenges to strategies to monetize guest emotions and weathering the storm of inflation and economic turmoil, this year’s high-impact discussions will address the most pressing topics facing our industry. The agenda is crystallizing and the speakers are confirming.

 

PROGRAM IN DETAIL:

 

Time Agenda Item Name
8:00 – 8:30 Registration and Welcome
8:30 – 8:35 Welcome Note Hind Galadari

Deputy General Manager / Miral Experiences
8:35 – 8:55 Keynote Speech:

A World in Flux: Global Economy in Today’s Times

 

This keynote will explore inflation, economic recovery, investment trends, and how global financial shifts impact operational sustainability and long-term growth strategies.
8:55 – 9:25 Panel Discussion:

The Future of Fun: Emerging Trends in Entertainment and Leisure in the Region

 

Industry thought leaders discuss the most influential trends shaping the leisure and attractions sector in the region. From technological advancements and changing consumer behaviours to government-led initiatives and investment opportunities, this panel sets the stage for the future.

 Sascha Triemer

GM, Aquaventure World & VP Marine & Waterpark, Atlantis Dubai

Mrs. Esmeralda Falaknaz

VP / International Expo-Consults

Renee Welsh

Chief Executive Officer / EMBED

Jamil Malek

General Manager / BAAN

 

Moderated by:

 
9:30 – 10:00 Panel Discussion:

Attractions Reimagined: Crafting Experiences for the New Generation

 

As expectations evolve, leisure and entertainment venues must adapt to capture the interest of younger generations. This session explores how attractions can integrate digital experiences, gamification, interactive storytelling, and social engagement to stay relevant and compelling.

 Ernest Yale

Owner, CEO, Founder / Triotech

Johnny Ong

Superdough Sdn Bhd

 

Moderated By: Cristina Stoica

Marketing Director – Mapic Events, RX France

 
10:05 – 10:35 Presentation:

Listening Pays: Strategies to Monetize Guest Emotions

 

Understanding customer emotions is key to driving engagement and revenue. Learn how to capture emotional insights, foster brand loyalty, and turn guest sentiment into a revenue-generating asset.

 Vladan Pantellic

CEO/Hoick
10:35 – 10:45 Coffee Break
INDUSTRY RESILIENCE AND OPERATIONAL STRATEGY
10:45 – 11:15 Panel Discussion:

Weather the Storm: The Impact of Inflation and Economic Turmoil on the Industry

 

With rising costs and shifting consumer spending habits, this session explores how businesses can navigate financial uncertainty, adapt pricing strategies, optimize operational efficiency, and maintain strong guest engagement despite economic downturns.

 Doran Davies

CEO / Bounce UAE

Heiko Engels

General Manager / Doha Quest

Juan Richards

Waterparks / Dubai Holding Entertainment

 

Moderated by: Ghassan Assi

COO / Trampo Extreme

 
11:20 – 11:50 Panel Discussion:

Supplying the MENA Leisure Industry: Opportunities and Challenges

 

As the region continues to expand its entertainment and attractions sector, ensuring a strong supply chain is critical. This discussion will focus on investment opportunities, local vs. international partnerships, and overcoming logistical challenges to ensure seamless operations

 Prakash Vivekanand

Managing Director / ASI

Gabi Salabi

Managing Director / Triotech

Andrea Munari

CEO /IE PARK SRL

 

Moderated by:

 

 
11:55 – 12:15 Presentation:

The Future of Retail Real Estate and the Role of Entertainment

 

 Phil McArthur

Founder & Chairman / McARTHUR Retail Development Specialists
12:15 – 13:15 Networking Lunch
CREATIVE & STRATEGIC INSIGHTS
13:15 – 13:30 Presentation:

Introducing MENA Leisure Report (2nd Edition)

 

First look at the latest insights and trends from the MENA Leisure Report, offering data-driven strategies for operators, investors, and developers navigating the regional market.

 Prakash Vivekanand

Managing Director / ASI
13:30 – 14:00 TEA Presents

The Power of Story –

What’s the Best for Your Location-Based Entertainment Using a Third-Party IP or Creating Your Own?

 

Leveraging intellectual property (IP) in location-based entertainment (LBE) can drive success, but is it always the right choice? This session, presented by TEA, will examine the pros and cons of licensing well-known brands versus building original narratives from scratch.

 Hannah McDonald

Principal Strategy Consultant – HL MacDonald & Assoc

Karim Sijlamassi

Director / Forrec

Julien Kauffman

Chief Executive Officer / Miral Experiences

Mohamed Attia

CEO, Ground Control Entertainment Co.

 

Moderated by: Valeria Rizzo

Chief Bramd Officer, Red Raiona+

 
14:00 – 14:30 Panel Discussion:

Designing with Purpose: Culturally Respected, Regionally Inspired, and Sustainably Built

 

In today’s globalized attractions industry, a one-size-fits-all design approach no longer works. Successful developments must be thoughtfully designed to respect cultural traditions, reflect regional identity, and adhere to sustainability principles. This session explores how designers and developers can create meaningful, authentic, and environmentally responsible attractions that resonate with local audiences while appealing to international visitors.

 Travis Kline

Product Development Director / Royal Commission for AlUla

Roger Currie

Director / WTI

Jimi Elgohary

Live Entertainment & Show Producer / Eventlab

 

Moderated by:

 
14:30 – 14:40 Coffee Break  
14:40 – 15:00 Presentation:

Resorts as Experiential Hubs: Merging Leisure and Culture

 

How can resorts integrate cultural and experiential elements to create immersive leisure hubs? This presentation looks at the role of hotels, theme parks, and integrated resorts in shaping multi-day guest experiences.

 Mike Rigby

General Manager & Regional Vice President EMEA / Whitewater

 
15:00 – 15:30 Panel Discussion:

Innovations in Participatory Play Areas

 

In an era where guest expectations are evolving, play areas are no longer just passive spaces for recreation—they are interactive, engaging, and deeply immersive experiences that enhance guest satisfaction and drive repeat visits. This session explores the latest innovations in participatory play areas, from gamified playgrounds and interactive water features to digital-integrated experiences.

 Ghassan Assi

Chief Operations Officer / Trampo Xtreme

Shifa Yusuff Ali

Chief Executive Officer / IdeaCrate Edutainment

Alex Zavyalov

CEO / Hello Park LLC

 

Moderated by: Emma Jane Forrest

Attractions Project Manager

 
15:30 – 16:00 Panel Discussion:

Workforce of Tomorrow: Navigating Staffing Challenges in the Evolving Leisure Industry

 

The workforce landscape is shifting. This session will explore strategies for attracting, training, and retaining talent, while addressing staffing shortages, automation, and evolving guest service expectations.

 

 Shoba Hari

Chief Executive Officer / Eventlab

Amy Morris

Owner / POP UP Global

Maya Mattar

Founder / Lasting Impressions

 

Moderated by: Emma Jane Forrest

Attractions Project Manager

 

 
16:00 – 16:10 Coffee Break  
WORKFORCE AND LEADERSHIP DEVELOPMENT
16:10 – 16:40 Fireside Chat:

Mentorship Matters: The Responsibility of Developing the Leaders of Tomorrow

 

Mentorship is a powerful tool for shaping future leaders, fostering career growth, and driving industry innovation. This dynamic panel of mentors and mentees will discuss the value of mentorship in leadership development, the role of reverse mentorship in bridging generational gaps, and how organizations can create a strong mentorship culture.

 Hind Galadari

Deputy General Manager / Miral Experiences

Mari Slavova

Events & Production Manager / Miral Experiences

Scott Deisley

Managing Director, SST

Emma Jane Forrest

Project Manager, Eventlab

 

Moderated by:

 
16:40 – 17:00 SST Special:

Celebrating Regional Development: International Aquatic Safety School East 2025

 

A focus session on IASS East’s growing success, not just as a certification course but industry professional development opportunity.

 Sean Stepoway

 Client Services Manager/ Safety Skills Training
17:00 – 18:00 Wrap-up and Networking

 

 

 

ELEVATE YOUR BRAND: SPONSORSHIP OPPORTUNITIES

Position Your Brand at the Epicenter of Industry Influence

The 8th MENALAC L.E.A. CEO Conclave isn’t just an event—it’s the definitive gathering where the MENA leisure industry’s future is shaped by those bold enough to lead. With over 100 C-suite executives, global manufacturers, suppliers, and visionaries in one room, this is your opportunity to position your brand at the crossroads of influence and innovation.

Our sponsors don’t just support the event—they become integral to the conversations that will drive our industry forward. Your brand will be woven into the fabric of discussions that set the agenda for the year ahead, creating lasting impressions with the region’s most powerful decision-makers.

Why Sponsor the MENALAC L.E.A. CEO CONCLAVE?

  • Command the Room: Establish unmistakable presence among 150+ top decision-makers from the region’s leading operators, suppliers, and investors who control multi-million dollar budgets.
  • Catalyze Industry Evolution: Position your brand as an architect of the future by supporting discussions that will reshape leisure experiences across MENA.
  • Forge Elite Connections: Gain privileged access to C-suite executives, industry pioneers, and government stakeholders in an intimate setting designed for meaningful relationship building.
  • Drive the Narrative: Showcase your expertise through speaking opportunities and branded content that establishes your company as a thought leader in your domain.
  • Amplify Your Impact: Enjoy premium branding, VIP networking opportunities, and exclusive touchpoints that ensure your message resonates with those who matter most.

 

Sponsorship packages remain available. Contact [email protected] to secure your position at the industry’s most influential gathering of 2025.

Agenda

PROGRAM
MENALAC L.E.A. CEO CONCLAVE 2025 – CONFERENCE PROGRAM (TENTATIVE)
       
Time Agenda Item Type Description
8:00 – 8:30 Registration and Welcome
8:30 – 8:50 A World in Flux: Global Economy in Today’s Times Keynote Speech This keynote will explore inflation, economic recovery, investment trends, and how global financial shifts impact operational sustainability and long-term growth strategies.
8:50 – 9:20 The Future of Fun: Emerging Trends in Entertainment and Leisure in the Region Panel Discussion Industry thought leaders discuss the most influential trends shaping the leisure and attractions sector in the region. From technological advancements and changing consumer behaviors to government-led initiatives and investment opportunities, this panel sets the stage for the future.
9:20 – 9:50 Attractions Reimagined: Crafting Experiences for the New Generation Panel Discussion As expectations evolve, leisure and entertainment venues must adapt to capture the interest of younger generations. This session explores how attractions can integrate digital experiences, gamification, interactive storytelling, and social engagement to stay relevant and compelling.
9:50 – 10:20 Listening Pays: Strategies to Monetize Guest Emotions Presentation Understanding customer emotions is key to driving engagement and revenue. Learn how to capture emotional insights, foster brand loyalty, and turn guest sentiment into a revenue-generating asset.
10:20 – 10:50 Seamless & Smart: The Future of Ticketing, Access, and Revenue Optimization Panel Discussion The way guests purchase tickets and access attractions is evolving rapidly, driven by digital innovation and data-driven strategies. Industry experts will discuss how smart ticketing systems can streamline entry, reduce operational bottlenecks, and personalize the guest experience. Diving into revenue optimization strategies, including demand-based pricing and real-time analytics to adjust pricing dynamically.
10:50 – 11:00 Coffee Break
INDUSTRY RESILIENCE AND OPERATIONAL STRATEGY
11:00 – 11:30 Weather the Storm: The Impact of Inflation and Economic Turmoil on the Industry Panel Discussion With rising costs and shifting consumer spending habits, this session explores how businesses can navigate financial uncertainty, adapt pricing strategies, optimize operational efficiency, and maintain strong guest engagement despite exonomic downturns.
11:30 – 12:00 Supplying the MENA Leisure Industry: Opportunities and Challenges Panel Discussion As the region continues to expand its entertainment and attractions sector, ensuring a strong supply chain is critical. This discussion will focus on investment opportunities, local vs. international partnerships, and overcoming logistical challenges to ensure seamless operations.
12:00 – 12:20 Marketing vs. Operations: Striking the Perfect Balance Between Guest Expectations and Business Realities Presentation Marketing teams create excitement, but operations teams deliver the experience. This presentation explores how to align marketing messaging with on-the-ground realities to ensure guest expectations match the actual experience.
12:20 – 13:20 Networking Lunch
CREATIVE & STRATEGIC INSIGHTS
13:20 – 13:35 Introducing MENA Leisure Report (2nd Edition) Presentation First look at the latest insights and trends from the MENA Leisure Report, offering data-driven strategies for operators, investors, and developers navigating the regional market.
13:35 – 14:05 The Power of Story – What’s the Best for Your LBE Using: a 3rd Party IP or Creating Your Own? TEA Presents Leveraging intellectual property (IP) in location-based entertainment (LBE) can drive success, but is it always the right choice? This session, presented by TEA, will examine the pros and cons of licensing well-known brands versus building original narratives from scratch.
14:05 – 14:35 Designing with Purpose: Culturally Respected, Regionally Inspired, and Sustainably Built Panel Discussion In today’s globalized attractions industry, a one-size-fits-all design approach no longer works. Successful developments must be thoughtfully designed to respect cultural traditions, reflect regional identity, and adhere to sustainability principles. This session explores how designers and developers can create meaningful, authentic, and environmentally responsible attractions that resonate with local audiences while appealing to international visitors.
14:35 – 14:45 Coffee Break
14:45 – 15:05 Resorts as Experiential Hubs: Merging Leisure and Culture Presentation How can resorts integrate cultural and experiential elements to create immersive leisure hubs? This presentation looks at the role of hotels, theme parks, and integrated resorts in shaping multi-day guest experiences.
15:05 – 15:35 Innovations in Participatory Play Areas Panel Discussion In an era where guest expectations are evolving, play areas are no longer just passive spaces for recreation—they are interactive, engaging, and deeply immersive experiences that enhance guest satisfaction and drive repeat visits. This session explores the latest innovations in participatory play areas, from gamified playgrounds and interactive water features to digital-integrated experiences.
WORKFORCE AND LEADERSHIP DEVELOPMENT
15:35 – 16:05 Workforce of Tomorrow: Navigating Staffing Challenges in the Evolving Leisure Industry Panel Discussion The workforce landscape is shifting. This session will explore strategies for attracting, training, and retaining talent, while addressing staffing shortages, automation, and evolving guest service expectations.
16:05 – 16:15 Coffee Break
16:15 – 16:45 Mentorship Matters: The Responsibility of Developing the Leaders of Tomorrow Fireside Chat Mentorship is a powerful tool for shaping future leaders, fostering career growth, and driving industry innovation. This dynamic panel of mentors and mentees will discuss the value of mentorship in leadership development, the role of reverse mentorship in bridging generational gaps, and how organizations can create a strong mentorship culture.
16:45 – 17:05 Celebrating Regional Development: International Aquatic Safety School East 2025 SST Special A focus session on IASS East’s growing success, not just as a certification course but industry professional development opportunity.
17:05 – 18:00 Wrap-up and Networking

Speakers

Speakers
  • Emma Jane Forrest
    Attractions Project Manager
    EventLab
  • Alex Zavyalov
    CEO
    Hello Park LLC
  • Amy Morris
    CEO
    Pop Up Global
  • Borislav Atanasov
    Head of Operations
    Walltopia
  • Brian "Scott" Deisley
    Managing Director
    SST , USA
  • Cristina Stoica
    Marketing Director - MAPIC Events
    RX France
  • Davide Camaiora
    Managing Director
    Vivaticket Middle East
  • Prakash Vivekanand
    Founder & CEO
    Amusement Services International LLC
  • Doran Davies
    CEO
    BOUNCE
  • Ernest Yale
    Founder, President & CEO
    Triotech
  • Gabi Salabi
    Managing Director – Projects Business Unit
    Triotech

Sponsors & Partners

  • Gold Sponsor

  • Gold Sponsor

  • Hospitality Sponsor

  • Education Sponsor

  • Technology & Ticketing

Sponsorship opportunities

We have a diverse range of sponsorship opportunities available; a member of the sponsorship team will work with you to create a bespoke package to suit your businesses objectives.

Become A Sponsor Sponsorship Benefits

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