Middle East leader to head global exhibition association, marking a major milestone for the region
The Global Association of the Exhibition Industry, UFI, has elected Said Al Shanfari, Chief Executive Officer of the Oman Convention and Exhibition Centre (OCEC), as its President for the 2027–28 term. The appointment represents a significant achievement for the Middle East and Africa region, highlighting its growing influence within the international exhibitions and business events sector.
Al Shanfari will officially join the UFI Presidential Trio as Incoming President in November 2026 and will assume the presidency in November 2027 during the 94th UFI Global Congress, scheduled to take place in Guadalajara, Mexico. The appointment will become effective following the conclusion of the 93rd UFI Global Congress in November 2026.
UFI Presidential Trio for 2026–27
For the November 2026 to November 2027 term, the UFI Presidential Trio will consist of:
- Wolfram Diener, President & CEO of Messe Düsseldorf Group, serving as President
- Panittha Buri, Vice-Chairperson of Bhiraj Buri Group, serving as Outgoing President
- Said Al Shanfari, CEO of OCEC, serving as Incoming President
The leadership team will guide UFI’s efforts to support and advance the global exhibition industry through collaboration, innovation, and international engagement.
Extensive Experience in Events and Destination Development
Said Al Shanfari brings decades of expertise in marketing, venue management, tourism, and destination development across the Middle East and Africa. As CEO of OCEC and Chair of UFI’s Middle East & Africa Chapter, he has played a key role in strengthening the region’s position within the global exhibitions and business events landscape.
His contributions have earned international recognition, including being named among the Forbes Middle East Tourism Leaders in both 2024 and 2025.
Al Shanfari Expresses Gratitude
Commenting on his appointment, Al Shanfari said he was honored to be selected as UFI’s Incoming President and proud to represent both the exhibition industry and the growing contribution of Oman and the Middle East on the global stage.
He emphasized the importance of collaboration and innovation in driving the future growth of the exhibitions sector worldwide.
UFI Leadership Welcomes Appointment
UFI President Panittha Buri welcomed Al Shanfari into the leadership team, noting that his extensive industry experience and regional insights would bring fresh perspectives and new energy to the association.
Meanwhile, Chris Skeith OBE, CEO and Managing Director of UFI, praised Al Shanfari’s long-standing commitment to the organization and his active participation in advancing the global exhibition community.
Supporting the Future of the Global Exhibition Industry
As Incoming President, Al Shanfari will work closely with UFI’s leadership and members to further the association’s mission of connecting, supporting, and promoting the exhibition industry worldwide.
Founded in 1925, UFI is the leading global association for the exhibitions industry, representing nearly 900 member organizations across 90 countries and regions. The organization directly represents more than 50,000 exhibition industry professionals, making it one of the most influential networks in the global business events sector.
The appointment of Said Al Shanfari reflects the increasing importance of the Middle East and Africa region in shaping the future of international exhibitions, trade shows, and business events worldwide.
