Publishing and exhibitions group Informa has appointed David Lynn as chief executive of inD, its Dubai-based partnership with Dubai World Trade Centre (DWTC).
Lynn joins from his previous role as president and chief executive of ViacomCBS Networks International, where he oversaw operations across multiple markets. His experience includes work on digital platform development, including the launch of streaming services such as Paramount+ and PlutoTV in a number of countries. He has also led the integration of broadcast businesses, including Network 10, Telefe and Channel Five.
He will relocate to Dubai and take up the role from 4 May 2026. His initial focus is expected to centre on combining DWTC and Informa B2B event brands and businesses within inD, forming a single operating structure. The company states this will support a growth plan covering the period from 2027 to 2029.
inD operates as a B2B events group within the UAE, with the firm saying it plans to expand across the IMEA region through new launches, brand extensions and syndication activity.
Stephen A. Carter, group chief executive of FTSE 100-listed Informa, says: ”We are delighted to confirm David’s appointment as inD’s inaugural CEO. The appointment of an experienced international media and content executive underlines inD’s ambition and the significant growth opportunity for high-quality B2B brands in the IMEA region and beyond.”
Helal Saeed Almarri, CEO of DWTC, adds: ”The CEO appointment reaffirms Dubai’s attractiveness as a leading global destination for international executive talent. More specifically, it highlights the growth potential that inD as a business represents for the international B2B Events sector. We look forward to working with David to accelerate industry-defining opportunities under inD’s home-grown platform for global connectivity.“
As of 1015 BST today (16 April 2026), Informa shares were up 0.32 per cent at 819.20p.
The news comes a month after DWTC announced the rescheduling of the April edition of the Dubai International Boat Show to 25-29 November 2026, following ongoing damage and disruption in Dubai caused by the US/Israel-Iran conflict. The war has had a devastating impact on visitor numbers, with many local businesses struggling.
The Dubai International Boat Show will continue to take place annually in November.
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