The Ministry of Commerce and Industry’ data revealed a significant 42.4% growth in the number of licensed showrooms in 2024, with 132 more showrooms than the previous year. The total reached 443, the highest in seven years, compared to 311 in 2023.
In 2018, the Ministry of Commerce issued 101 exhibition licenses. However, this number dropped by 5.9% in 2019 to 95. Temporary exhibition licenses were then halted entirely from February 26, 2020, until the end of 2021, as a precautionary measure in response to the COVID-19 pandemic.
In 2022, the Ministry of Commerce approved 159 exhibitions, marking a 95.6% increase. This growth continued into 2023 with 152 exhibitions, bringing the total to 311. The upward trend continued in 2024, with the number of exhibitions reaching 443.
Exhibition licenses in Kuwait saw a 5.8% decrease month-on-month in December, dropping from 68 exhibitions in November to 64 in December. However, the number of exhibitions showed a 15.9% year-on-year increase compared to the 44 exhibitions licensed in December 2023.
In Kuwait, exhibition licensing has experienced fluctuating trends throughout 2024. After starting with 44 exhibitions in December 2023, the number rose to 51 in January, followed by a further increase to 64 in February. However, it dropped to 34 in March, then 16 in April, before rising again to 18 in May, 25 in June, and 16 in July. The trend picked up again in August with 25 exhibitions, followed by 18 in September, and 44 in October. November saw the highest number of exhibitions for the year 2024, reaching 68.
Exhibitions held in Kuwait span a wide range of sectors, including real estate, services, finance, consumer goods, and more. While the number of exhibitions has seen significant growth over the past two years, the industry continues to face several challenges.
Experts suggest that Kuwait requires a clear strategy to boost its exhibition industry and remain competitive with the significant growth seen in neighboring countries. They emphasize the importance of preparing the nation to host major international exhibitions, which would enhance its global standing and attract more investment and tourism.
Furthermore, experts stressed the importance of developing robust infrastructure, including the expansion of facilities, as well as a comprehensive strategy that focuses on enhancing the capacity of the airport, roads, transportation, and hotel accommodations to support visitors attending local events. They also highlighted the need for administrative and procedural streamlining to facilitate the organization of exhibitions.
Source: Al Rai
