IAAPA, the global association for the attractions industry, announced the appointment of Dr. Neil Dwyer as the first Regional Advisory Board Chair for the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region.
Dr. Dwyer brings more than 20 years of international experience in theme park operations and strategic leadership. He currently serves as Vice President of Operations at Six Flags Qiddiya City, where he is helping shape one of the world’s most ambitious entertainment destinations.
Throughout his career, Dr. Dwyer has held leadership roles at globally recognized attractions, including Blackpool Pleasure Beach, IMG Worlds of Adventure, and Global Village. His work spans attraction development, operational excellence, and commercial strategy, with a focus on delivering world-class guest experiences rooted in safety, service, standards, and sales.
An active and engaged IAAPA member, Dr. Dwyer has contributed extensively to the association through committee service, education program development, and as a subject matter expert sharing operational insights with the global industry. He holds the prestigious IAAPA Certified Attractions Executive (ICAE) designation and currently serves on the IAAPA Board of Directors, as well as the Global Safety & Security Committee.
“Neil’s global experience and deep operational expertise make him exceptionally well-suited to support the continued growth of the attractions industry across the MENA region,” said Luciana Periales, Chairman of the IAAPA Board of Directors. “His leadership and passion for excellence will be invaluable as we continue to expand our presence and serve our members in this dynamic and rapidly evolving market.”
As the first Regional Advisory Board Chair for MENA, Dr. Dwyer will work closely with IAAPA leadership and regional stakeholders to advance the association’s strategic priorities, strengthen member engagement, and foster innovation and collaboration across the region.
In addition to his professional achievements, Dr. Dwyer holds a Doctorate in Business Administration, a Master’s Degree in International Tourism and Visitor Attraction Management, and has served as a Non-Executive Director for the Shakespeare Birthplace Trust, contributing to commercial strategy and long-term planning.
Dr. Dwyer will officially step into his role July 1, 2026.
