MIDDLE EAST & AFRICA. The Middle East & Africa Duty Free Association (MEADFA) has opened early bird pre-registration for its 2026 conference, taking place from 15-17 November in Rabat, Morocco.
To be held at the Four Seasons Hotel Rabat in Kasr Al Bahr, the event will form part of the association’s 25th anniversary celebrations.
The first MEADFA conference to be held in the Moroccan capital, the event underscores the association’s strategy to deepen engagement across Africa’s high-growth markets while strengthening its role as a regional platform for the Middle East and Africa’s travel retail industry.
Rabat offers a fitting backdrop for this milestone edition, combining a rich history and distinctive cultural identity with growing regional significance.
As a gateway to Africa, the city reflects both the region’s heritage and its forward-looking ambition, as well as the growing connectivity between the Middle East and African markets.
One of the key events in the regional travel retail calendar, the conference provides a platform for retailers, airports, brands, distributors and industry stakeholders to connect, exchange insights and explore the future of duty free and travel retail across the Middle East and Africa.
Avolta is the Official Host of the 2026 Conference, with Heinemann Middle East Africa sponsoring the Welcome Cocktail.
MEADFA President Abdeslam Agzoul said: “The 2026 MEADFA Conference marks a proud milestone as we celebrate 25 years of MEADFA.
“Over the past quarter century, the Association has played a key role in bringing together our industry across the Middle East and Africa, and this anniversary provides an opportunity to reflect on our achievements while looking ahead to continued growth and collaboration.”
Tax Free World Association President Sarah Branquinho added: “Organised in partnership with TFWA, the MEADFA Conference continues to play a vital role in bringing the industry together across the Middle East and Africa.
“We look forward to this 25th anniversary edition, welcoming delegates to Rabat for what promises to be an engaging programme, valuable networking opportunities and meaningful discussions about the future of our industry.”
The conference will combine an extensive programme of expert-led sessions with a series of networking events, providing delegates with opportunities to establish connections and explore new business opportunities.
Further details regarding the conference agenda, speakers and social programme will be announced in the coming weeks.
Industry professionals are encouraged to register early to secure their place at this special anniversary edition of the MEADFA Conference and take advantage of the early-bird rate by signing up via this link. ✈
