Seventh Edition of MENALAC Awards to debut in Saudi Arabia

Organised by the Middle East and North Africa Leisure & Attractions Council (MENALAC), the 7th edition of the MENALAC Awards Gala is to debut in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, on 19th May 2025. This year marks the first time the prestigious Awards are being hosted in the Kingdom, underscoring Saudi Arabia’s impressive rise as the region’s leisure and entertainment powerhouse.

Getting bigger and better every year, in 2025, the MENALAC Awards will feature an impressive 35 categories, which are thoughtfully curated to recognise excellence across the entire spectrum of the MENA leisure, entertainment, and attractions industry. From ‘Best Theme Park’, ‘Best Water Park’, and ‘Best Family Entertainment Centre’ (FEC)’ to categories like ‘Best Edutainment Centre’, ‘Best Playscape’, ‘Best Sports/Active Entertainment Facility’, and ‘Best Integrated Leisure Destination’, the awards will showcase the very best in vision, innovation, and execution.

The Awards are more than a celebration – they are a platform to benchmark, to inspire, and to spotlight best-in-class facilities, initiatives, programs, and people who are redefining excellence in the global leisure arena. What sets the MENALAC Awards apart is the exceptional credibility and integrity of the judging process. Each nomination is rigorously evaluated by an independent panel of highly respected regional and international experts, who bring decades of experience across various sectors of the leisure and attractions industry. To further uphold transparency and ensure a fair selection process, the awards are overseen by independent auditors, who validate each step - from shortlisting to final selection - against strict compliance protocols.

Alwalid Al Baltan, President, MENALAC and Chief Executive of Rafeeh Entertainment Group, Saudi Arabia notes ‘‘Saudi Arabia is now at the epicentre of regional transformation. As we open our doors to the world with giga projects like Qiddiya, Diriyah Gate, and The Red Sea Global, diverse new sectors are emerging as a vital engine of economic diversification. Hosting the MENALAC Awards in Riyadh demonstrates our journey from aspiring to world-class to setting global benchmark. The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia is the entertainment capital of the world.’’

Across the MENA region, the leisure and attractions industry is projected to surpass $14 billion by 2028, supported by a rising population, high tourist arrivals, government-backed tourism visions, and an increasing appetite for out-of-home entertainment. Saudi Arabia alone expects over 85 million visitors annually by 2028, contributing more than $5 billion to its leisure economy, according to Redseer Strategy Consultants.

In the UAE, 25 million tourists were welcomed in 2023, with the country’s entertainment sector projected to grow at a CAGR of 9.7% through 2027. Meanwhile, markets such as Egypt, Qatar, and Bahrain are also witnessing strategic expansions in leisure infrastructure – further propelling the MENA region to global prominence.

Davide Camaiora, MENALAC Event Chairman and Managing Director, VIVATICKET added “the incredible enthusiasm and participation this year – from nominations to sponsorships – show just how deeply the MENALAC Awards resonate with the industry. They are not just trophies; they’re a celebration of passion, innovation, and perseverance. We are proud to host this year’s Gala in Riyadh and honour the leaders shaping our region’s future.”

The 2025 MENALAC Awards Gala will not only honour the region’s best but also serve as an unmissable networking and knowledge platform for industry leaders, creatives, and visionaries. Guests can look forward to:

• Exclusive Networking Reception: Mingle and connect with industry pioneers, creatives, developers, and innovators.

• Gala Dinner: Savour a gourmet dining experience in a setting designed for celebration.

• Awards Ceremony: Applaud excellence, bold vision, and groundbreaking initiatives.

• World-Class Entertainment: Enjoy mesmerising performances befitting the evening’s grandeur.

• Launch of the MENA Leisure Report 2025: Witness the launch of the second edition of an unparalleled resource for the regional leisure & entertainment industry, the MENA Leisure Report.

• Red Carpet Interviews: Hear on-the-spot insights as MENALAC engages with industry luminaries during red carpet moments.

As the MENA region enters an exciting new chapter, MENALAC remains committed to raising the bar by recognising achievements that reflect international excellence and regional innovation. The Awards not only celebrate success but encourage the entire industry to dream bigger, deliver better, and lead globally.

This spectacular event would not be possible without the continued support of the industry. MENALAC extends its deepest thanks to its partners and sponsors, including Rafeeh Entertainment, Al Othaim Entertainment, Blocks Group, Baan Holding, Cheer Amusement, Warehouse of Games, SEA Expo, Embed, VIVATICKET, ProSlide, Semnox, and UHY.

For gala tickets, please visit www.menalac.org/menalac-award-categories-2025/