Cvent, a global leader in event and hospitality technology, has released its highly anticipated 2025 rankings of the Top Meeting Destinations and Hotels in the Middle East and Africa (MEA). Once again, Dubai secured the number one spot, reaffirming its position as a global hub for business events.
The rankings, based on data from over $18 billion in global sourcing activity in 2024, reflect significant demand for in-person events despite economic challenges. The Middle East & Africa list is part of Cvent’s global ranking series, which also covers North America, Europe, Asia Pacific, and, for the first time, Latin America & the Caribbean.
Top Destinations Remain Steady, New Cities Climb
The top three meeting destinations from 2024 remain unchanged in 2025:
- Dubai, United Arab Emirates
- Istanbul, Türkiye
- Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
Cape Town, Marrakech, and Riyadh also made the top 10, while Nairobi and Kuwait City climbed several positions, reflecting the region’s expanding MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions) landscape.
Ahmed Al Khaja, CEO of Dubai Festivals and Retail Establishment, praised Dubai’s top ranking:
“Dubai’s recognition as the number one meeting destination in MEA reflects the city’s digital transformation, world-class infrastructure, and commitment to innovation. We thank our partners for their shared efforts in reinforcing Dubai’s role as a global business events hub.”
Top Meeting Hotels in MEA Announced
The hotel rankings recognize properties with outstanding RFP response rates, planner support, and tailored MICE experiences. This year’s top hotel, JW Marriott Marquis Dubai, rose six spots to claim the number one position, followed by Hilton Dubai Al Habtoor City and Grand Hyatt Dubai Conference Hotel.
Top 10 Meeting Hotels in MEA:
- JW Marriott Marquis Dubai
- Hilton Dubai Al Habtoor City
- Grand Hyatt Dubai Conference Hotel
- InterContinental Dubai Festival City
- Le Méridien Dubai Hotel & Conference Centre
- Hyatt Regency Dubai Creek Heights
- Marriott Resort Palm Jumeirah Dubai
- Conrad Dubai
- Crowne Plaza Riyadh RDC Hotel & Convention
- Sheraton Grand Doha Resort & Convention Centre
Gerrit Graef, General Manager at JW Marriott Marquis Dubai, said the recognition reflects “responsiveness, innovation, and the use of technology” in delivering high-impact experiences.
InterContinental Dubai Festival City also celebrated its #4 ranking alongside the relaunch of its Event Centre, which now boasts one of the region’s largest ballroom LED screens and panoramic creek views.
Meeting Momentum in 2025
Despite economic uncertainties, Cvent reports that nearly 84% of planners in the Middle East expect in-person events to grow in 2025. The findings are consistent with broader global trends signaling a robust return to large-scale gatherings.
With Dubai and its hotels leading the charge, the Middle East and Africa region is poised to remain a major player in the global events industry.
