Paris:The Global Association of the Exhibition Industry (UFI) has announced the election of Jordanian executive Bilal Barmawi to its Board of Directors for the 2026-2029 term. Barmawi's tenure is set to commence following UFI's General Assembly meeting in Bahrain on November 2, during the 93rd UFI Global Congress.
According to Jordan News Agency, Barmawi is the founder and CEO of 1st Arabia Tradeshows and Conferences. The company is headquartered in Riyadh, with additional offices in Amman, Muscat, Bahrain, and Dubai. It specializes in organizing international trade shows in collaboration with global organizers such as Messe Frankfurt, Fira de Barcelona, Fiera Milano, NrnbergMesse, and Comexposium.
Barmawi previously served on the International Association of Exhibitions and Events (IAEE) Board of Directors for a three-year term starting in 2021. In 2023, he joined the Advisory Committee of the Saudi Exhibition and Conferences Association and has been part of the National Exhibitions and Conferences Committee at the Federation of Saudi Chambers.
In his new role on the UFI board, Barmawi will play a pivotal role in shaping industry policies and guiding global trade exhibition initiatives alongside his international colleagues. UFI, based in Paris, represents leading trade show organizers, exhibition center operators, and industry associations worldwide, fostering international collaboration, knowledge sharing, and best practices across the sector.
Barmawi's election highlights the increasing influence of Jordanian talent in global professional organizations.