Messe Frankfurt Middle East confirms leadership appointment

Messe Frankfurt Middle East has announced the appointment of Nathan Waugh as Portfolio Director, responsible for overseeing Intersec and Light + Intelligent Building Middle East.

Waugh’s appointment follows the reported success of the 2025 editions of both events.

Intersec 2025 welcomed 1,209 exhibitors and 47,300 visitors.

Light + Intelligent Building Middle East recorded a 10 percent increase in attendance to 15,948 visitors.

According to Messe Frankfurt Middle East, Waugh will be responsible for supporting continued development across both exhibitions.

Nathan Waugh brings two decades of industry experience

Nathan Waugh has more than 20 years of experience in the exhibitions sector across the United Arab Emirates and the United Kingdom.

Before joining Messe Frankfurt Middle East, he served as Portfolio Director at Capital Events, part of the ADNEC Group.

In that role, he managed 12 events across several industries, including the security sector.

Waugh now assumes a role that includes oversight of events positioned within the safety, security, lighting and building technology sectors.

Senior leadership comments on appointment

Ted Bloom, CEO of Messe Frankfurt Middle East, welcomed Waugh’s appointment.

Bloom said: “We are delighted to welcome Nathan to Messe Frankfurt Middle East as our new Portfolio Director.

“With over two decades of experience in the events and exhibitions industry, Nathan brings invaluable expertise and a deep understanding of the security, safety, and technology sectors.

“His proven track record in driving strategic growth and delivering world-class exhibitions will be instrumental as we continue to elevate Intersec and Light + Intelligent Building Middle East to new heights.

Nathan’s leadership will be pivotal in strengthening our position as a global leader and shaping the future of these flagship events.”

Waugh said: “I am excited to have joined Messe Frankfurt Middle East to head up Intersec and Light + Intelligent Building Middle East.

“These events are both world-class platforms renowned for innovation, collaboration, and business growth, and the opportunity to lead the team to further build on these credentials is one I relish.

“I’ve been lucky to join a fantastic, passionate team, and I look forward to working alongside them to further grow and develop these events.

“My goal is to create new opportunities, drive industry progress, and deliver exceptionally curated experiences that cater to the needs of our exhibitors, visitors, and stakeholders.”

Intersec and Light + Intelligent Building Middle East 2026

The 27th edition of Intersec will take place from 12 to 14 January 2026 at the Dubai World Trade Centre.

The event will take place under the patronage of His Highness Mansoor Bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum.

It will feature participation from global leaders, policymakers, investment entities and private sector partners.

Light + Intelligent Building Middle East will be held alongside Intersec 2026.

The event will include conference sessions and workshops focused on lighting and building technologies.

Nathan Waugh appointed to lead Intersec and Light + Intelligent Building Middle East: Summary

Messe Frankfurt Middle East has appointed Nathan Waugh as Portfolio Director for Intersec and Light + Intelligent Building Middle East.

Waugh has more than 20 years of experience in the events industry.

He most recently held the role of Portfolio Director at Capital Events, where he managed 12 exhibitions.

Intersec 2025 hosted 1,209 exhibitors and 47,300 visitors.

Light + Intelligent Building Middle East had 15,948 attendees, marking a 10 percent increase on the previous year.

The 27th edition of Intersec will take place from 12 to 14 January 2026 in Dubai.

The event will be co-located with Light + Intelligent Building Middle East.

Waugh said he looks forward to working with the team to grow the events and create opportunities for industry stakeholders.