Landmark 10th edition will bring global association leaders to South Africa in January
BestCities Global Alliance has confirmed that its flagship Global Forum will take place in Cape Town, South Africa, from 21-24 January 2027, marking the event’s 10th anniversary.
The announcement signals a milestone edition of the Forum, which will convene international association leaders under the theme “Connected by Purpose: Global Perspectives, Shared Values.” Additional details, including registration, will be released on the BestCities website in the coming months.
Cape Town’s selection reflects its growing profile as a leading destination for international business events. Set against the backdrop of Table Mountain and the Atlantic coastline, the city pairs dramatic natural scenery with proven capability, modern infrastructure, and experience hosting complex global gatherings. Its combination of accessibility, warm hospitality, and a distinctive sense of place positions it strongly for associations seeking both meaningful engagement and lasting impact.
The 2027 Global Forum was originally scheduled to be held in Dubai, UAE, a valued and longstanding BestCities partner. Following careful consideration of regional developments, the decision was made to relocate the event as a precautionary measure. The alliance’s relationship with the Dubai Department of Economy & Tourism remains strong and productive, with future programmes and opportunities in the destination already under discussion.
Hosting the anniversary edition places Cape Town – and South Africa more broadly – firmly at the centre of global association dialogue.
“As we look ahead to the 10th anniversary of the Global Forum, we’re thrilled to bring this milestone edition to Cape Town, a destination that offers both exceptional capability and a powerful sense of place,” said Loren Christie, Managing Director, BestCities Global Alliance. “The Forum is a special event that brings together a unique set of global perspectives. I can’t think of a better destination than Cape Town to host this marquee event.”
“Cape Town and the Western Cape is honoured to host the BestCities Global Forum. This prestigious event underscores our strong commitment to the association sector and the vital role that business events play in strengthening our knowledge economy, advancing key industries, and creating meaningful benefits for our communities,” said Wrenelle Stander, CEO of Wesgro, and the official spokesperson of the Cape Town & Western Cape Convention Bureau. “As the leading convention destination in Africa, Cape Town takes the association market seriously and continues to invest in creating impactful, globally relevant meetings. We look forward to providing not only a world-class setting, but also an inspiring environment for productive dialogue, collaboration, and innovation.”
For more information visit the Global Forum Cape Town website.
