Middle East Conflict Shakes Global Business Events

Iran’s retaliatory strikes across the Gulf, in response to a U.S.-Israeli assault, have caused the most significant business disruption in the Middle East since the COVID-19 pandemic, according to Reuters. 

President Donald Trump has indicated that the Iran strikes could continue for four to five weeks, signaling ongoing impacts for the business events sector.

Airports, military installations, ports, and hotels were targeted, with Dubai International Airport and Abu Dhabi’s Zayed International Airport sustaining damage.

The timing has compounded the disruption as the attacks occurred during Ramadan, when corporate iftars and suhoors, networking and relationship-building events, are traditionally held. Reuters reports that gatherings hosted by Emirates, Masdar, Mubadala, GEMS Education, and the UAE Department of Government Enablement have been canceled or postponed.

Major Conference Postponements

Affiliate World Global: Dubai, originally scheduled to open on March 4 at the Dubai World Trade Centre, with more than 7,000 affiliate marketers and e-commerce professionals, has been postponed to spring 2027.

In a statement, Affiliate World Global cited escalating regional conflict, airport closures, and travel disruption as the reasons behind the “incredibly difficult decision,” noting the substantial investments already made across venues, production, booths, and staffing. All purchased tickets will automatically transfer to the new dates, and attendees, exhibitors, and sponsors are offered $1,000 credits for virtual content and future participation.

Global Ripple Effects

GSMA, organizer of Mobile World Congress 2026, confirmed that delegations from Southeast Asia, Australia, and South Africa have withdrawn, while others try to rebook flights through Europe or the U.S. Travel management firm CWT estimates that at least 9,000 of the fair’s expected 109,000 participants will arrive more than 24 hours late, creating hotel no-shows and operational challenges.

Formula 1 and the FIA are monitoring the conflict closely. FIA President Mohammed Ben Sulayem, based in Dubai, emphasized that safety is the top priority, particularly with upcoming races in Bahrain and Saudi Arabia, both of which were recently affected by attacks.

Governments, including the U.S., U.K., and European Union, have updated travel advisories for the Gulf, urging citizens to avoid non-essential travel.

Industry Response

Industry groups are calling for solidarity. UFI, The Global Association of the Exhibition Industry, highlighted the importance of safety, well-being, and international cooperation during these uncertain times.

“The exhibition industry is built on dialogue, connection, and international cooperation. In moments of uncertainty, these values become even more important. We stand in solidarity with our members and the wider business events community, and we express our sincere hope for stability and swift de-escalation,” the UFI statement read.