The move comes as conflict continues across the Middle East with Iran targeting the likes of the UAE in retaliation for strikes on Iran by Israel and the USA.
The conference will now be held in Munich, Germany, on the same dates as the Dubai event was scheduled for – June 16-19.
“Our priority is to ensure that members can come together in 2026 in a safe and secure environment, while preserving the value of meeting in person and making the most of our global gathering,” said IFES president, Jörg Zeissig.
“We deeply regret that we are not able to welcome our global community together in Dubai this year as originally planned. We extend our respect to all those affected by the current situation and thank our members for their understanding, flexibility and continued support.”
The theme for the conference has also been changed, from “Beyond Boundaries” to “Navigating Change, Shaping What’s Next”.
“In times of change, it becomes even more important for our community to stay connected and aligned,” said Zeissig.
“The decision to adapt our 2026 gathering reflects our responsibility to our members and our commitment to creating a meaningful platform for exchange.
“Munich offers us the opportunity to come together in a focused and constructive way to listen, to share and to shape what comes next, together.”
The federation has announced the location change just over two months after Dubai was revealed as the 2026 conference host.
As part of the announcement that the event will move, IFES said it would host its global conference in Dubai in 2028.
IFES has a handful of Australian members and inked a strategic partnership with the Australian Business Events Association in late 2025.
Other events set to be held in the Middle East have been announcing postponements or cancellations due to the ongoing regional conflict.
