About the Annual Conference
The BRISMES conference is the largest and most prestigious annual UK gathering of scholars and practitioners focusing on the region. The event moves around the country as it is hosted by a different UK university every year. At the conference, BRISMES invites researchers from all disciplines to explore that year’s theme or to present any aspect of their Middle East Studies research. You can propose an individual paper, panel and/or roundtable, receive feedback from academics working on similar themes, and attend as a publisher or non-presenting delegate.
The 2027 annual conference will take place in person at Newcastle University from 22 to 24 June 2026. Our Call for Papers will be announced soon - stay tuned!
Why Present at the BRISMES Annual Conference?
Watch this video-interview with Asma Asiri, a doctoral researcher at the University of Sussex, discussing her experience of presenting at the BRISMES Conference for the first time.
Highlights
- Three days of inspiring panels, roundtables and talks;
- A welcome reception on June 22;
- Dinner on June 23 with a music event;
- A publishers’ exhibition;
- Two keynote speeches from renowned academics in the field of Middle East Studies.
The Conference Venue
The conference will take place in the Henry Daysh Building on Claremont Road, a modern, cohesive, and extensively refurbished mid-century complex located in the heart of the university's city campus.
Access and Support
BRISMES strives to make our annual conference accessible for delegates with additional needs. Newcastle University is committed to accessibility and inclusivity for all students, staff, and visitors. The university provides a range of services, facilities, and adaptations to support people with diverse accessibility requirements. If you have any questions about access or support at the conference, please contact us at conference@brismes.org.
Costs and Bursaries
As in previous years, BRISMES members will benefit from a substantial reduction on registration fees compared with non-members. A limited number of bursaries will also be available. Further information about our Solidarity Fund can be found here. If you have any questions about our registration fees, please contact us at conference@brismes.org.
Childcare
In 2027, we will continue to support delegates with children by offering on-site childcare. Further information will be provided in due course.
Database of Expertise
The Database of Expertise in Middle Eastern and Islamic Studies provides a publicly available list of MENA experts with their research and areas of expertise.
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