A change to the venue landscape IMEX provided the ideal platform for a raft of new venue announcements and updates . The global brand reveal of the Middle East ’ s newest exhibition and convention centre was launched on 31 May , including confirmation that it will be operated by ASM Global .

Opening in late 2022 , Exhibition World Bahrain is set to become a catalyst for economic growth , socio-development and job creation , generating a long-term legacy for the Kingdom of Bahrain .

According to Dr Nasser Qaedi , CEO of Bahrain Tourism & Exhibitions Authority ( BTEA ), the brand identity of the new Exhibition World Bahrain in Sakhir , which he claims is set to become the largest exhibition and convention centre in the Global Cooperation Council ( GCC ) region , is a key element in the authority ’ s work to promote it regionally and internationally .

“ This exceptional achievement is planned to attract business tourism in the region and is considered a key pillar in implementing the ambitious objectives of Bahrain Tourism Strategy 2022-2026 ,” Dr Qaedi said . Exhibition World Bahrain will offer 95,000sqm of exhibition space , a Grand Hall to seat capacity from 400-4,000 , 95 meeting rooms , 14 organiser ’ s offices , 3 Majlis , supported by 25 restaurants , cafes and retail outlets .

Back in Europe , the Grimaldi Forum Monaco revealed details of the extension to its building increasing its event capacity by 50 % with an additional 6,000sqm of indoor space .

A further 2,000sqm of outdoor space , with views of the Mediterranean from the Ravel Terrace , was also showcased .

The development project includes the neighbouring eco-area of six hectares that is being currently built by the State of Monaco . The entire

landscape of the Grimaldi Forum will be refreshed , with green areas around and a fully renovated Larvotto ’ s beach and district nearby .

Operational from 2025 , this extension will make it possible to host larger events , have more events going on simultaneously , and make the Grimaldi Forum more flexible for increasingly original event formats .

An update on Thailand ’ s newest venue was also announced at IMEX . The Queen Sirikit National Convention Center ( QSNCC ), the largest convention centre in Bangkok ’ s Central Business District is scheduled to open this September . Thirteen million visitors are expected to visit in the first year .

Major events already scheduled include the APEC Summit 2022 ( Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation ) on 14-19 November when country leaders and delegates from all the 21 economies and beyond will be hosted at QSNCC , while Informa Markets , the world ’ s largest trade fair organiser , has already booked six major prestigious events . More than 130 show and national events are being confirmed at present .

The venue will has 300,000sqm of total event space and multiple settings for conferences , meetings , and exhibitions .

Sutichai Bunditvorapoom , executive vice-president of marketing and sales , N . C . C . Management and Development Co ., Ltd . , the operator of QSNCC said : “ Following the reopening of Thailand and now that international border restrictions have been lifted , the last quarter of 2022 will be an exciting time for QSNCC to start with this brand new venue . The response of major international event organisers in booking so many conferences and events before we open is tremendous and a wonderful testimonial to the venue .

“ International visitors will not only enjoy exciting events in world class

Top : QSNCC Middle : Grimaldi Forum Bottom : Exhibition World Bahrain

facilities , they will also experience superb shopping and lifestyle opportunities and a taste of Thai culture – all under one roof .”