Rides, robotics and reality make for an amusing event

What’s a scent-emitting experience? Find out at IAAPA Expo Asia 2024 in Bangkok.

IAAPA Expo Asia 2024 will showcase future-forward technologies, including cutting-edge augmented reality.
IAAPA Expo Asia 2024 will showcase future-forward technologies, including cutting-edge augmented reality. Photo Credit: IAAPA

The biggest names in Asia’s amusement industry are heading to Bangkok for the IAAPA Expo Asia 2024, the largest trade exhibition of its kind in the region:

Taking place at Bangkok’s Queen Sirikit National Convention Centre from 27-30 May, the expo will showcase the newest technological advancements in the attractions industry from more than 300 exhibitors. These include rides to robotics, safety features to AI experiences.

Based in Orlando, Florida, and with regional offices across the globe, including Hong Kong and Shanghai, IAAPA is the largest international trade association for permanently located attractions.

The Expo Asia 2024 key attendees will include Shanghai Disney Resort, Hong Kong Disneyland, Universal Beijing Resort, Enchanted Kingdom (Philippines), Dreamworld (Australia), Studio City Macau and Ramayana Water Park.

IAAPA Expo Asia Pacific executive director and vice president, Jack Chan, said that the event embraces the entirety of the attractions landscape, encompassing family entertainment centres, location-based attractions, branded experiences, zoos, aquariums, museums, science centres, nature attractions, event facilities like stadiums, and food and beverage operators.

“The expo will showcase future-forward technologies, including cutting-edge augmented reality, lifelike holograms, scent-emitting experiences and 5D multimedia," Chan added.

The APAC attractions market contributes significantly to the regional economy with an estimated total revenue impact of US$42.3 billion.

China and Japan are leading markets in the region, with promising growth projections backed by favourable demographics and increasing disposable incomes.

A highlight of IAAPA Expo Asia 2024 is its EDUTours – a series of excursions enabling attendees to gain an exclusive behind-the-scenes look at some of Thailand's peak entertainment venues, including the Siam Amazing Park, educational family space Playmondo, and sports-centric entertainment facility BEAT Active.