The theme park industry in Dubai can generate $5 billion in annual revenue by 2020, according to forecasts made on the eve of the 5th edition of the Theme Parks & Entertainment Development Forum.

The two-day Forum took place in Dubai on 16 – 17 April and saw eminent speakers from the entertainment and attraction industry in the Middle East talk about the industry’s sharp growth in the UAE and discuss strategies for future growth.

The internationally recognised trade show management company, International Expo Consults, predict theme parks in Dubai could generate $5 billion in annual revenue by 2020.

Similar forecasts for the leisure and entertainment industry in the Middle East were made by PWC, which believes the UAE will reach 45 million visitors by 2021.

As the Theme Parks & Entertainment Development Forum notes, with the opening of IMG World, Warner Bros., Dubai Parks and Resorts and other attractions, the Middle East has been witnessing a new era for the theme park and attraction industry in recent years.

With billions of dollars of planned investment in attractions and theme park redevelopment, such growth looks set to continue.