IAAPA, the global association for the attractions industry, announced the appointment of Michael Rigby as the first Vice President and Executive Director of the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region.
Rigby brings more than 20 years of international business experience and a proven track record in the leisure and attractions industry. Most recently, he served as General Manager of WhiteWater Middle East, where he led the company’s regional presence across the Middle East, Africa, and South Asia.
Based in the UAE for over a decade, Rigby has played a key role in advancing some of the region’s most high-profile projects, working alongside globally recognized destinations such as Yas Waterworld and Atlantis Aquaventure, as well as major new developments including Aquarabia at Qiddiya City and projects in the Red Sea.
A respected industry leader, Rigby has built strong partnerships across the leisure, hospitality, and real estate sectors, helping to position attractions as powerful drivers of tourism and economic growth. He has also been an active contributor to the industry, serving in leadership roles with Middle East and North Africa Leisure and Attractions Council (MENALAC) events committee and the Themed Entertainment Association (TEA), as well as being a supportive member of IAAPA.
In his new role, Rigby will lead IAAPA’s efforts to grow and support its membership across the MENA region — one of the fastest-evolving and most dynamic markets in the global attractions industry.
“Michael’s deep regional expertise, industry relationships, and strategic vision make him the ideal leader as we establish and grow IAAPA’s presence in the Middle East and North Africa,” said Jakob Wahl, President and CEO of IAAPA. “We are thrilled to welcome him to the team during this pivotal time of expansion.”
Rigby will be based in the UAE and will focus on strengthening member engagement, expanding educational offerings, and supporting the continued development of the attractions industry throughout the region.
Rigby will officially step into his role April 26.
