A Journey Through the Middle East

This article is part of a new series, "WTCA Member Spotlight," a series of articles written by WTCA team members to give readers a glimpse into the diversity and dynamism of the global WTCA community. 

Penned by Milan Ramjee, WTCA Membership & Business Development Lead, Middle East & Africa

Last month, I was honored to attend the inaugural 2025 WTCA Middle East Members Meeting, graciously hosted by our colleagues at WTC Sharjah (Expo Centre Sharjah). Held at the fabulous headquarters of the Sharjah Chamber of Commerce and Industry (SCCI), the conference featured participation from key figures, including Mr. Saif Mohammed Al Midfa, CEO of WTC Sharjah/Expo Centre Sharjah; Mr. Mohamed Juma Al Musharrakh, CEO of the Sharjah FDI Office (Invest in Sharjah); Mr. Ahmed Tibaoui, CEO of WTC Algiers and WTCA Regional Advisory Council Chair for Middle East and Africa; and Ms. Crystal Edn, WTCA Executive Director of Member Services. Participants emphasized the need to accelerate digital transformation in exhibitions, create a unified platform for data sharing, and activate networking frameworks among WTCA Members in the Middle East. These efforts aim to boost competitiveness, attract investments, and foster innovation. The discussions emphasized the importance of coordinated efforts in promoting and strengthening international trade, as well as supporting regional economic development goals in the region.

My journey through the Middle East took me to four remarkable cities — Sharjah, Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and Riyadh — each a unique jewel in the region’s crown, and each home to a World Trade Center (WTC) facility that plays a dynamic role in shaping the city’s economic growth, fostering trade, and attracting investment across the region. During my prior visits in other areas, I’ve seen firsthand how these hubs of innovation and collaboration are not just buildings but beacons of economic progress.

Sharjah: Culture Heritage and Vibrant Commerce

My first stop in Sharjah, the cultural heart of the United Arab Emirates (UAE), welcomed me with its blend of tradition and modernity. The city’s skyline, dotted with elegant minarets and contemporary architecture, reflects its deep respect for heritage alongside its forward-thinking ambition. WTC Sharjah/Expo Centre Sharjah is more than an exhibition venue; it’s a catalyst for economic growth. In 2024, Expo Centre Sharjah, alongside its affiliated centers in Khorfakkan and Al Dhaid, successfully organized and hosted 80 major exhibitions, attracting nearly 3 million visitors from across the UAE and beyond. By working closely with the Sharjah Chamber of Commerce and Industry, it attracts foreign direct investment (FDI) through world-class events that showcase the Emirate’s pro-investment policies and Specialized Free Zones. I was inspired by discussions on leveraging AI and digital transformation to enhance trade, ideas that resonate with Sharjah’s vision to become a global exhibitions hub.

Dubai: Global Hub: Where Innovation Meets Ambition

Dubai needs little introduction. With its futuristic skyline and fast-paced rhythm, it is widely considered the key global hub for tourism, trade, finance, and innovation for the entire region. The Dubai World Trade Centre (DWTC) stands at the heart of this metropolis, a powerhouse hosting more than 30 events a month and generating an economic output of more than AED 20 billion in 2024 alone. DWTC welcomed 2.65 million event participants in 2024, representing a 7% increase from the previous year. The results were fueled by a strong lineup of 378 meetings, incentives, conferences, and exhibitions (MICE) business and consumer events, showcasing a significant 26% year-on-year growth. The DWTC Authority Free Zone enhanced its value proposition by adding One Za'abeel to its jurisdiction, offering companies access to premium business environments with Specialized Fee Zone benefits. Throughout 2024, the Free Zone licensed 389 new business entities, reflecting its growing appeal.

Abu Dhabi: Strategic, Sophisticated, and Sustainable

Abu Dhabi offers a different tempo — strategic, thoughtful, and sustainable. Crowning the glorious skyline of Abu Dhabi, the WTC Abu Dhabi is nestled in the heart of the city. It was inspiring to witness how WTC Abu Dhabi plays a unique role in anchoring the city’s diversification efforts. As an iconic landmark within the historic business district, it’s a symphony of steel and stone with state-of-the-art amenities. Encompassing the WTC Abu Dhabi are The Mall, Burj Mohammed Bin Rashid, The Offices, and the Courtyard by Marriott hotel, creating a vibrant ecosystem that supports businesses and residents alike.

An interesting fact: The Burj Mohammed bin Rashid is the tallest building in Abu Dhabi and the skyscraper with the most floors in the city. This residential building stands 382 meters (1,253 feet) tall and features 92 floors. As of 2025, it is the eighth-tallest residential building in the world. 

Riyadh: Bold Vision, Grounded Progress

Riyadh was perhaps the most surprising leg of my journey. The city is undergoing a breathtaking transformation, driven by Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 agenda. WTC Riyadh stands at the intersection of ambition and execution. WTC Riyadh, located in Riyadh's central business district, offers fully equipped office spaces, conference facilities, and comprehensive business support services tailored to both local and international enterprises. Their mission is to help organizations prosper by providing world-class services and facilities, aiming to be the leading business and convention center in Saudi Arabia. Emphasizing a personalized approach, WTC Riyadh ensures each client's unique requirements are met with professionalism, efficiency, and a commitment to excellence. During my visit, I saw how WTC Riyadh’s initiatives empower local businesses to compete globally, a testament to the city’s ambition to redefine its economic future.

Conclusion: A Region Rising, with WTCA by Its Side

I had the privilege of being accompanied by Ms. Crystal Edn, WTCA Executive Director of Member Services. At every stop we made, we were both impressed by how each WTC business adapts to its local context while maintaining the shared mission of the WTCA: “Connecting Businesses, Globally” to drive local prosperity. In the Middle East — a region undergoing rapid transformation, innovation, and renewed global relevance — our global network is uniquely positioned to offer trusted platforms, enhance global visibility, and foster business confidence.

As regional economies pursue diversification and sustainable development, WTCA can act as both a connector and a catalyst. We are more than just buildings or business forums — we are bridges across borders, cultures, and industries.

This trip reminded me of the power of place, as well as the importance of people. And I return to Africa deeply inspired by what is possible when a global vision is matched with local ambition and commitment.