ILMC & Pollstar join forces to launch Middle East conference

The International Live Music Conference (ILMC) and Pollstar are joining forces to launch Live Summit Middle East, a unique industry event set for the United Arab Emirates later this year.

The two leading live entertainment media and conference companies will curate the inaugural event, set for 7-8 December 2026 in Abu Dhabi. Hosted by Abu Dhabi’s Department of Culture and Tourism (DCT) and produced by Ethara, the event will be a platform for knowledge sharing, dialogue, collaboration and partnership building.

Live Summit Middle East will bring together 500 senior leaders and decision-makers from across the live entertainment ecosystem – promoters, venue operators, agents, festival organisers, technology innovators and policymakers – for two days of keynotes, panel discussions, roundtables and curated networking.

The programme will address the most pressing opportunities and challenges shaping the global live entertainment business, with a particular focus on the Middle East’s rapidly evolving market.

Plus, the event will host the first-ever Live Summit Awards, recognising and promoting excellence in live entertainment across the region.

“With the explosion of shows, venues and interest in the Middle East over recent years, the industry needs an annual moment to reflect, exchange and celebrate,” says ILMC head Greg Parmley.

“And with ILMC and Pollstar joining forces to build this major new global music business platform, it will help drive the business forward from a truly global perspective.”

The inaugural edition of Live Summit Middle East will take place immediately following the Formula 1® Etihad Airways Abu Dhabi Grand Prix. This landmark timing positions the summit at a moment when leaders from live entertainment, sport, media, hospitality and brand partnerships are already in the region, and all delegates to the Live Summit will receive complimentary access to both the race and concerts.

“Abu Dhabi represents the perfect stage to bring the live industry’s global leaders together to shape the future of the business”

In addition to conference sessions and unparalleled networking, the two-day gathering will offer unique skills development and mentorship opportunities for emerging professionals.

Andy Gensler, Pollstar editor in chief, adds, “The Middle East is one of the most dynamic growth markets in live entertainment today. With world-class touring, rapid venue expansion, and a thriving festival and cultural landscape, Abu Dhabi represents the perfect stage to bring the live industry’s global leaders together to shape the future of the business.”

Summit attendees will also be able to experience a day of cultural immersion, curated by the DCT to showcase the emirate’s cultural heritage and contemporary landmarks, directly following the conference on 9 December.

The new conference will be a first-time event collaboration between Pollstar and ILMC, combining their international reach and expertise.

ILMC has served as the premier meeting point for the international live music industry for nearly four decades, and welcomes 3,000 professionals from over 60 countries. ILMC also publishes leading trade publication IQ and produces the International Festival Forum (IFF). The announcement of the Summit follows a focused programme – Middle East Live – that has run at ILMC for the past three years.

Pollstar is the force behind Pollstar Live!, the premier gathering of international live entertainment professionals in North America. Some of the biggest names in music have graced the stage at Pollstar Live! and its annual Pollstar Awards, including Jon Bon Jovi, Elton John, Stevie Nicks, and Missy Elliott, amongst others.

The Summit will be produced by Ethara, the live entertainment powerhouse behind the region’s marquee events, including the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix, landmark concerts, and iconic sporting and cultural events.

Find more information and registration details here.

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