Purpose: The purpose of the present research is to examine and explain any possible variance in the perception of local Emiratis towards hosting a major and a mega event. A Grand Prix Formula One was considered for a major event, which is organized yearly in Abu Dhabi and EXPO Dubai 2020 was researched as an example of a one-time mega event. Methods: Data of local Emiratis living in UAE were collected in-person. A selfadministered questionnaire was developed that consisted of tourism perception, negative and positive impacts, and individual support. The questionnaire was adjusted to each event and N=360 were collected for EXPO 2020 and N=533 were received for F1 questionnaire. Descriptive statistics and t-test were used to administer the differences in events’ perception.