16th edition of ISM Middle East concluded with size record. The new conference format was successfully received. ISM Middle East, the international trade fair for sweets and snacks in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region, concluded another edition at the Dubai World Trade Centre from November 7 to 9, 2023. With a turnout of more than 12.800 visitors, 352 exhibitors hailing from 45 countries, 28 national pavilions, and a thriving 3-day showcase, ISM Middle East 2023 reaffirmed its significance in the MENA region. As the region's leading platform for sweets and snacks, ISM Middle East 2023 had a resounding impact, and set new goals for its future editions – "Bigger, Better, Bolder."
This year's event also celebrated the inaugural ISM Middle East Conference, offering valuable insights and knowledge to industry professionals and making it a comprehensive experience for attendees. The event included the premiere of the new ISM Middle East Knowledge Hub that addressed current trend topics, innovation and business with speakers from G.A.A.S.T, German Sweets, IFF, Jannis, Mirzam and Perfetti van Melle. Another part of the ISM Middle East Conference was a high-profile panel and presentations from official Knowledge Partners Innova Market and Euromonitor, adding to the overall event's success.
This year, ISM Middle East expanded its exhibition space due to the increasing demand from exhibitors. The record result of 2016 with 5,197 square meters of space was exceeded. Additionally, ISM Middle East will be making a major shift in its schedule starting from 2024. The event will move from its traditional November date to September, allowing for better alignment with religious celebrations as well as the order timings of the industry. The new dates for the ISM Middle East 2024 edition are set from September 24 to 26, 2024, at the Dubai World Trade Centre (DWTC). This move aims to meet the ever-increasing demand in the region and further expand the exhibitor base.

"Under the ISM family banner, ISM Middle East seamlessly aligns with the global reputation of the world's leading trade fair in Cologne and has once again reaffirmed its position as the foremost business platform in the Middle East and North Africa region," stated Oliver Frese, Chief Operating Officer at Koelnmesse GmbH, setting the stage for an even more thrilling edition in 2024.