The UFI Global Exhibition Barometer shows a limited impact of the current Middle East situation

UFI, the Global Association of the Exhibition Industry, has published the 37th edition of its flagship Global Exhibition Barometer, completed in June 2026 with data from 466 companies across 59 countries and profiles for 20 priority markets. Worldwide, 27% of companies expect annual revenue growth above 5% and 38% anticipate stable revenues. The state of the domestic economy remains the top short-term business issue (19% of responses), followed by geopolitical challenges (18%) — the leading concern in Europe and in the Middle East and Africa — while global economic developments top the medium-term ranking (18%). The survey shows a limited impact of the Middle East crisis: only 14% of companies globally, and 10% outside the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC), report a strong negative impact on their business, whereas within the GCC 55% do, mainly through postponed events; 90% of companies outside the GCC perceive no or only moderate impact. AI adoption keeps rising: 91% of companies now report using AI tools (+4% in six months), with growing shares testing or deploying solutions for digital efficiency, customer experience and AI-driven revenue. Operating profits performed well in 2025, with 37% of companies reporting increases above 10%. UFI CEO Chris Skeith said there is 'no real evidence of a significant ripple effect' beyond the GCC and that positive trends persist worldwide. The next Barometer survey will be conducted in December 2026.