IHG to Spotlight Premier Properties for MICE & Weddings as Gold Partner at EPEX 2025

Experiential Planner welcomes IHG Hotels & Resorts as a Gold Partner for EPEX 2025, marking the group’s debut participation at the region’s premier trade show for the MICE and destination weddings industry. As one of the most recognised names in global hospitality, IHG’s participation comes at a time when the brand is accelerating its expansion across key global markets—making their presence at EPEX both timely and strategically significant for the show’s curated network of international hosted buyers.

IHG is actively growing its global footprint, having signed 714 hotels and opened 371 properties in 2024 alone. The group’s acquisition of the Ruby Hotels brand., its commitment to doubling its portfolio in India over the next three years, and strategic developments across the Middle East—including new Hotel Indigo properties in Saudi Arabia’s NEOM and partnerships with Dubai’s Department of Economy and Tourism—highlight IHG’s dedication to delivering diverse, experience-led hospitality offerings around the world.

Tarek Labib – Head of Commercial, IMEA, IHG Hotels & Resorts said, “Tourism and hospitality industry in the region is undergoing a remarkable upswing, with multiple markets leading the way.  At this time of robust growth, we are pleased to partner with EPEX 2025 and look forward to connecting with delegates and hosted buyers from key and emerging markets across the Middle East, UK, CIS and India. Together, we can explore the future of the MICE and Weddings industry while driving the transformation of the hospitality ecosystem in this sector.”

As a Gold Partner, IHG will be showcasing its key MICE and destination wedding hotels from across its portfolio. Their participation at EPEX 2025 is designed to connect with high-potential hosted buyers, all of whom are seeking distinctive venues and trusted global partners for outbound events, incentives, and celebrations.

Vishal Nagdev, Founder of POW WOW Marketing and Business Head for EPEX said, “We are thrilled to welcome IHG Hotels & Resorts to EPEX 2025 as a Gold Partner. At EPEX, we work closely with leading hospitality brands to understand their goals and create opportunities that align with their expansion plans. IHG’s participation is a great example of this strategic collaboration—leveraging our platform to meaningfully engage with serious buyers from priority markets. Their strong portfolio, which spans luxury, lifestyle, premium and mainstream, makes them a natural fit for the evolving needs of the planners who attend EPEX.”

EPEX 2025 will take place on 4–5 September at the Grand Hyatt Dubai, bringing together more than 300 hosted buyers and global suppliers for two days of focused meetings, immersive showcases, and powerful industry conversations.