The war around Iran is starting to affect the global exhibition market.

The escalation of the military conflict around Iran at the end of February 2026 has already begun to have a noticeable impact on the global exhibition and business events industry. According to industry analytical sources, the situation has become the largest shock to the business events industry in the Middle East since the COVID-19 pandemic.

Military actions began on February 28, 2026, after strikes by the U.S. and Israel on facilities in Iran, leading to retaliatory missile attacks and a rapid increase in regional tensions. The conflict immediately affected international business travel and the infrastructure that directly supports the holding of exhibitions and congresses.

Disruptions in Air Travel and Logistics

One of the first consequences of the conflict was the disruption of international transport. According to Reuters, after the onset of military actions, about 21,300 flights were canceled in key aviation hubs in the Middle East, including Dubai, Doha, and Abu Dhabi. The closure of airspace and flight restrictions left tens of thousands of passengers unable to travel.

This is critically important for the exhibition industry, as most international exhibitors and visitors travel by air. Additionally, disruptions have affected freight transport, complicating the delivery of exhibition stands, equipment, and display materials.

Initial Consequences for Exhibitions and Congresses

Industry media report that event postponements, changes in delegation routes, and logistics issues are already being recorded in Gulf countries. Some international events are facing a sharp decline in participant numbers due to flight restrictions and companies' concerns about travel safety.

Additional challenges have arisen due to the closure of airspace and strikes on infrastructure in the region, which is already affecting the transport accessibility of key exhibition centers in the Middle East.

UFI's Response

UFI - Global Association of the Exhibition Industry, which unites hundreds of exhibition organizers and venues worldwide, has officially stated that it is closely monitoring the situation's development. The organization emphasized that the safety of industry participants - exhibitors, visitors, contractors, and staff - remains the top priority.

In its statement, UFI noted that the exhibition industry is built on international cooperation, business contacts, and freedom of movement, so any geopolitical crises directly impact its operations. The organization also expressed support for the professional community in the region and hope for a swift de-escalation of the conflict.

Why the Situation is Particularly Sensitive for the Industry

The Middle East has become one of the fastest-growing markets in the global exhibition industry in recent years. Major exhibition centers are actively developing in the UAE, Saudi Arabia, and Qatar, which host dozens of international exhibitions and congresses annually.

Therefore, any restrictions on air travel, security threats, or logistics disruptions almost instantly reflect on international business activity and the planning of industry events.

Conclusion: At this time, the consequences of the war around Iran are predominantly regional; however, the ongoing escalation is already affecting the exhibition industry through disruptions in air travel, logistics, and international business trips. The further development of the situation will depend on the duration of the conflict and the restoration of transport infrastructure.