IBTM World 2026 to Bring Together 12,000 Professionals and 2,500 Organizations in Barcelona Next Week

30 startups to connect with more than 15 investors as an expanded AI and technology program explores the future of the meetings and events industry.

Barcelona is preparing to host IBTM World 2026, one of the leading international gatherings for the Meetings, Incentives, Conferences and Exhibitions (MICE) industry, from November 17 to 19, with more than 12,000 professionals and over 2,500 participating organizations expected from the tourism, hospitality, event management, and technology sectors.

Taking place at Fira de Barcelona’s Gran Via venue, the exhibition will feature an extensive program focusing on the transformations reshaping the business events industry, particularly artificial intelligence, innovation, sustainability, and the development of attendee experiences.

The exhibition will see the return of IBTM Ignite, organized in partnership with allpoints, to connect emerging businesses with potential investors in the events industry.

The initiative is expected to bring together 30 startups and more than 15 investors through live business pitches, professional networking sessions, and investment presentation training.

According to figures released by the organizers, the program has previously helped participating companies raise approximately £3.5 million in investment.

The 2026 edition will introduce AI for Events – Demo Day LIVE, developed in collaboration with Boldpush, showcasing practical artificial intelligence applications for event planning, management, and improving attendee experiences.

The exhibition will also feature an expanded technology and services area, the introduction of Braindate to facilitate professional networking, and a Skills Exchange program offering interactive learning sessions.

More than 85% of participating suppliers are returning to the exhibition, alongside an expanded presence from several international tourism destinations.

Scotland, Egypt, and Italy are among the destinations increasing their exhibition space, together with other European participants, reflecting continued interest among tourism authorities in attracting international meetings and conferences.

Under the theme “The Age of Disruption,” the main conference program will examine the impact of economic, technological, and social transformations on the industry.

International speakers will include historian Eliza Filby, author Will Storr, and filmmaker Deeyah Khan.

The significance of IBTM World extends beyond showcasing tourism destinations and hotel conference facilities. The event provides a platform for direct business negotiations between event organizers, hospitality companies, tourism authorities, and technology providers.

For participating Arab destinations, the exhibition offers an opportunity to strengthen relationships with international buyers and promote their capabilities to host major conferences and business events.

The investment and technology programs also reflect a broader shift in MICE industry competition toward delivering high-quality experiences, improving operational efficiency, and measuring returns on events, alongside traditional infrastructure and venue capacity.