Game On: Integrating Sports into the Middle Eastern Leisure and Entertainment Experience


Session Description

As the Middle East undergoes a thrilling transformation in the leisure and entertainment space, extreme and adventure sports are emerging as powerful tools for cultural engagement, community development, and tourism innovation. In this dynamic panel, hear from the visionaries leading this movement—from skydiving and rock climbing to skateboarding and surfing.

This session explores how infrastructure and community must evolve hand-in-hand, the impact of inclusive and accessible programming, and how urban and adventure sports are inspiring a new generation across the GCC. Learn how events, pop-ups, and purpose-driven development are creating not just athletes—but lifelong memories, family moments, and national pride.

Whether you're a developer, operator, or brand, discover why now is the time to bet on extreme sports in the Middle East—and how to do it right. 

Speakers

  • Omar Faisal Alhegelan, President, Saudi Arabian Extreme Sports Federation

  • Olivia Wyrick, Director of Operations, Aqua Arabia Water Theme Park at Qiddiya

  • Ray Tinston, Managing Director, Identity Middle East

  • Faisal Al Dossary, Founder, Dino Climbing Center (Dammam, Saudi Arabia)

Details

 EUs: N/A

 Session Time: 45 minutes

 Language: American English

 Key Features: Recording of live presentation from IAAPA Expo Europe 2024

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