What’s New This April?
From new global partnerships to major international congresses, there’s no shortage of momentum across the BestCities community this April. Cities are celebrating big wins, laying the groundwork for future innovation, and continuing to lead in sustainability, accessibility, and collaboration. Here’s a look at what’s happening across the Alliance and beyond.
Dive in to stay informed and inspired
Association Focus: Important News and Events
Your Voice Matters: Final Call to Join the Global Association Research Survey
The association sector is evolving fast—and your insights are needed to help shape what comes next. BestCities is proud to support the Global Association Research Initiative, one of the most comprehensive surveys ever conducted in the sector, gathering input from professionals, volunteers, and suppliers around the world.
Participants will receive an exclusive summary report with key trends, benchmarking data, and an invitation to a live briefing and expert Q&A session. The survey takes about 30 minutes to complete, and all responses are confidential.
Take the survey before it closes.
Know someone else who should weigh in? Share the link and help strengthen our collective future.
Community Café Insights: Crafting a Winning Entry for Incredible Impacts
On 1 April, BestCities Global Alliance and ICCA co-hosted two Community Café sessions focused on the power of intentional impact through international conferences. Past winners of the Incredible Impacts Programme—including representatives from ICRS, IWRA, IPVS, and EACD—shared valuable insights on aligning projects with mission, engaging underserved communities, and telling stories that stick.
Key takeaways included the importance of authenticity, collaboration across sectors, measurable outcomes, and precise, data-driven storytelling. Attendees also picked up practical advice for submitting standout applications—whether they’re new to legacy work or refining long-standing initiatives.
To dive deeper into the session insights and explore examples from past winners, read the full article on crafting a winning Incredible Impacts entry.
Head Office Highlights: What’s Happening at BestCities Global Alliance
IMEX Frankfurt: Join Our Breakfast
BestCities Global Alliance invites you to kick off IMEX Frankfurt with us on Wednesday, 21 May, from 07:30–09:00 at the Hilton Frankfurt City Centre. Here’s why you won’t want to miss it:
- Inside access to the 2026 BestCities Global Forum in Guadalajara and upcoming activities for the Madrid Challenge
- Updates on the Incredible Impacts Programme, including the June 2 submission deadline
- Quality networking with fellow associations, media, and representatives from all 13 BestCities partner cities
- Convenience perks, including free attendance and transport to Messe Frankfurt
- A calm, focused start to the day, with time to connect before the exhibition begins
Register now to secure your spot.
Not registered for IMEX yet? Join our Hosted Buyer Group for complimentary access and curated networking:
- European buyers can register here with code: 8f38af
- International buyers can register here with code: 27s627
For questions, reach out to Tia Daniels.
Global Forum 2026: Planning Underway for Guadalajara
Behind-the-scenes planning is already underway for the 2026 BestCities Global Forum, taking place in Guadalajara from 5-8 February. The event will explore the theme “Innovating with Tradition, for a Sustainable Future”, continuing the Forum’s focus on meaningful dialogue, global collaboration, and legacy-driven impact.
Participants from the 2025 edition described the Forum as:
“BestCities understands the secret ingredient to success: relationships. The Global Forum in Dublin left me with my hair blown back – inspiring, powerful current content and just a fabulous team who hosted a great weekend and created an incredible space to connect with global leaders.” – Mr Gregor Sneddon, International Federation on Ageing
“Attending the Best Cities Global Forum opened the door to new ideas, inspiring connections, and a shared journey of growth. Every discussion was a step toward greater understanding of the specific topics. For me, it was a great learning experience and truly worthwhile to attend.” – Mrs Carola van der Hoeff, International Pharmaceutical Federation (FIP)
We look forward to building on that momentum as we shape another inspiring programme for the international association community.
Visit the Global Forum 2026 site to learn more and register your interest.
City Buzz: What’s Happening in BestCities Destinations
Berlin
New Flight Connections to Berlin, starting April and Fall 2025
Berlin is enhancing its global accessibility with new direct flights for business travellers. Starting in April, Eurowings will introduce nonstop service from Bilbao to Berlin Brandenburg Airport, while direct routes from Abu Dhabi will launch in the fall. Additionally, Berlin will gain more connectivity from partner BestCities destination Dubai, further strengthening its appeal as a congress destination.
Estrel Tower Joins Berlin’s Line-Up of Skyline Venues in 2026
Berlin’s skyline is home to several striking venues for meetings and events. Leading the pack is the Estrel Tower, which recently celebrated its topping-out ceremony and will be Germany’s tallest hotel when it opens in 2026. Its Sky Meeting Rooms on the 41st and 42nd floors offer panoramic views and 3,800 sqm of event space. Other elevated options include the Berlin TV Tower, Park Inn by Radisson Berlin Alexanderplatz, and the historic Radio Tower at Messe Berlin.
Explore Berlin’s high-rise venue, the Estrel Tower.
New Promotional Video Showcases Berlin Meeting Campus
The Berlin Convention Office has released a new video showcasing the Berlin Meeting Campus, a unique concept that integrates industrial spaces, hotels, and theatres into a single flexible event district. Designed for gatherings of 500 or more, this initiative offers scale, variety, and a dynamic city backdrop—ideal for large-scale meetings and congresses.
Singapore
Major MICE Events Return to Sands Expo, 13 -17 April 2025
Major MICE events are returning to the Sands Expo and Convention Centre this April. PCMA Business of Events (13–15 April) will explore leadership in an intergenerational workforce, followed by The Meetings Show APAC and the inaugural Business Travel Show APAC (16–17 April). These co-located events will bring together thousands of group travel professionals and facilitate over 6,000 one-on-one appointments.
Entertainment Highlights: Lady Gaga Concert and NBA Events, June 2025
Singapore is solidifying its reputation as Asia’s top entertainment destination. Lady Gaga has selected Singapore as the exclusive Asian stop on her upcoming tour, while the NBA has announced a multi-year partnership with Sport Singapore and the Singapore Tourism Board. The collaboration kicks off this June with a two-week festival featuring NBA stars and fan activities, paving the way for future events in the city.
Raffles Sentosa Singapore: the City’s First All-Villa Luxury Hotel
The new Raffles Sentosa Singapore introduces the city’s first all-villa concept, set across 100,000 square metres of lush landscape. The resort features 62 private villas with pools and terraces, five dining venues, and two ballrooms tailored for both intimate and large-scale MICE events. The property has earned Green Mark Gold certification for its sustainability features, including solar-powered lighting and an on-site edible garden.
Scoot Wins Value Airline of the Year
Scoot has been named ‘Value Airline of the Year’ at the 51st Annual ATW Airline Industry Achievement Awards. This marks the second consecutive win for the low-cost carrier, a first in the award’s history.
Rainforest Wild Asia Opens at Mandai Wildlife Reserve, 12 March 2025
Mandai Wildlife Reserve has launched Rainforest Wild Asia, Asia’s first adventure-based zoological park. Visitors can encounter freely roaming wildlife and explore diverse habitats through accessible trails, forest treks, and guided climbs. The park features 36 species—75% of which are endangered—offering an immersive look into Southeast Asia’s rich biodiversity.
Vancouver
North America’s 50 Best Bars Awards, 28-30 April 2025
For the first time, North America’s 50 Best Bars Awards will be hosted in Canada—and Vancouver has the honour. In partnership with Destination Vancouver, the city will welcome top cocktail industry figures from across the continent for a three-day celebration, with the awards ceremony taking place on 29 April.
Vancouver’s FIFA World Cup 26™ Theme Song Remix Elevates Indigenous Voices
Vancouver has unveiled its official remix for the FIFA World Cup 26™ theme song. Created by local producer Grayson Repp, the remix is the only one among host cities to feature Indigenous artists, highlighting the voices and musical traditions of the Musqueam, Squamish, and Tsleil-Waututh Nations.
Guadalajara
Guadalajara Airport Wins Best in Latin America & the Caribbean
Guadalajara International Airport has been named Best Airport in Latin America and the Caribbean (5 to 15 million passengers category) by Airports Council International. The award recognizes excellence in customer experience and operational performance, reinforcing Guadalajara’s status as a key gateway for international meetings and events.
Cape Town
New International Conferences Confirmed for 2025 and 2026
Cape Town has secured several new international conferences, highlighting its continued appeal as a host for high-calibre global events:
- Global Industrial Cooperation Association Conference, 14-16 October 2025 (180 delegates)
- Global Digital Infrastructure Summit, 4–6 November 2025 (500 delegates)
- Annual Meeting of the International Behavioral Neuroscience Society, 23–27 June 2026 (300 delegates)
- 35th International Symposium on Ballistics, 18–23 October 2026 (400 delegates)
These wins reflect the city’s growing influence across sectors ranging from neuroscience to digital infrastructure.
Washington DC
Upcoming International Meetings
Washington, DC is preparing to host a strong line-up of global events this spring, underscoring its role as a centre for international dialogue across sectors. Highlights include:
- 2025 IFSSH and IFSHT Triennial Congress
- ASA & ICA 2025
- Spring Meetings of the World Bank Group and International Monetary Fund
- World Vaccine Congress
- Advances in Neuroblastoma Research Meeting
Sustainability Summit and Awards
In March, Destination DC and the District Department of Energy and Environment co-hosted the second annual Sustainability Summit at the Embassy of France. The event brought together leaders from tourism, hospitality, government, and business to share best practices and celebrate innovation. The gathering also featured the 2025 District Sustainability Awards, honouring individuals and organisations advancing DC’s green goals.
WorldPride Coming to DC
Washington, DC will welcome WorldPride 2025 this May, celebrating LGBTQ+ communities from around the world. The event highlights the city’s continued commitment to inclusivity and global community-building.
National Cherry Blossom Festival
Spring has arrived in the US capital with the return of the National Cherry Blossom Festival, one of DC’s most iconic seasonal celebrations.
Melbourne
Global Hepatitis Summit 2027 Confirmed
Melbourne will host the Global Hepatitis Summit in early 2027, following a successful bid led by the Melbourne Convention Bureau in collaboration with the Burnet Institute and Peter Doherty Institute. According to the official announcement from MCB, the summit will bring together global experts in hepatitis research, reinforcing the city’s reputation as a leader in medical innovation.
Dublin
Global Hepatitis Summit 2027 Confirmed
Melbourne will host the Global Hepatitis Summit in early 2027, following a successful bid led by the Melbourne Convention Bureau in collaboration with the Burnet Institute and Peter Doherty Institute. According to the official announcement from MCB, the summit will bring together global experts in hepatitis research, reinforcing the city’s reputation as a leader in medical innovation.
Meitheal, 11–12 April 2025
Now in its 49th year, Meitheal is Fáilte Ireland’s flagship trade event. This year’s edition in Killarney brings together more than 500 Irish tourism businesses and 250 international buyers for over 12,000 one-on-one meetings, along with FAM trips across the country showcasing Ireland’s visitor offerings.
Madrid
European Congress of Psychiatry, 5–8 April 2025
Just days after hosting the 40th European Association of Urology Congress, Madrid welcomes 3,500 delegates for the European Congress of Psychiatry. IFEMA will also stage the 38th Salón Gourmet Madrid, a key event for professionals in the gourmet food sector.
MCB Sustainability Tools Launch, 8 April 2025
At its annual members’ assembly, the Madrid Convention Bureau will introduce two new working guides for event organisers. One focuses on developing legacy projects, while the other provides actionable tips to reduce environmental impact.
Global MICE Forums and Industry Assemblies, April 2025
April marks Madrid’s peak promotional season. MCB will participate in the Global MICE Forum trade shows in Madrid, join a Spanish destinations delegation in Munich, and attend the ICCA Iberian Chapter meeting in Zaragoza and CityDNA’s general assembly in Budapest.
Easter Celebrations and Major Sporting Events, 6–27 April 2025
The city is in full swing with Easter festivities and a packed sports calendar. Highlights include the Movistar Half Marathon, Zurich Rock’n’Roll Running Series, and the Mutua Madrid Open, returning to Caja Mágica for another exciting edition.
Copenhagen
High-Profile Congresses Confirmed for 2025
Copenhagen is gearing up for a strong year of international meetings at Bella Center Copenhagen, including several major medical, tech, and academic events:
- Joint Congress of the European Society for Paediatric Endocrinology & European Society of Endocrinology, 10-13 May (6,000+ delegates)
- FIRSTConference, 22–27 June (cybersecurity and incident response experts)
- AOM 2025 – 85th Annual Meeting of the Academy of Management, 25–29 July (10,000 delegates)
- ECOC Exhibition 2025, 29 September – 1 October (8,000 visitors in optical communications)
- ESCRS 2025 – European Society of Cataract and Refractive Surgeons, 12–16 September (15,000+ delegates)
WindEurope Returns to Bella Center, 8–10 April 2025
Copenhagen will host WindEurope’s Annual Event from 8–10 April 2025, welcoming more than 16,000 leaders in renewable energy to Bella Center. Ahead of the conference, a special delegation visit to the Greater Copenhagen Living Lab is planned for 7 April, offering hands-on learning opportunities tied to the city’s Legacy Lab initiative and green transition goals.
Tivoli Gardens Reopens for the Season
Copenhagen’s historic Tivoli Gardens reopens on 4 April inviting visitors to enjoy rides, concerts, floral displays, and fine dining. The park also offers distinctive venues for meetings and events year-round.
Explore venue options at Tivoli Gardens.
Dubai
DWTC and Informa Group Forge Global MICE Partnership
Dubai World Trade Centre (DWTC) has partnered with Informa Group to establish a joint venture aimed at expanding their portfolio of business events. This collaboration is set to significantly boost Dubai’s Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions (MICE) sector, aligning with the goal of tripling its GDP contribution to AED 54 billion annually by 2033.
Dubai Tops Global Greenfield FDI Rankings for Fourth Year
In 2024, Dubai attracted AED52.3 billion ($14.24 billion) in estimated foreign direct investment (FDI) capital, marking a 33.2% increase from the previous year. This achievement reinforces Dubai’s position as the world’s leading destination for Greenfield FDI projects for the fourth consecutive year.
Expand North Star 2025 to Boost Digital Economy
The Dubai Chamber of Digital Economy will host Expand North Star 2025 at Dubai Harbour from 12-15 October. This event aims to attract startups and investors worldwide, further solidifying Dubai’s status as a global hub for digital innovation.
Tokyo
Meet Business Events Tokyo at IMEX Frankfurt, 20–22 May 2025
Business Events Tokyo will be exhibiting at IMEX Frankfurt, ready to connect planners with expert Tokyo suppliers. Attendees are encouraged to stop by the booth and follow live updates on LinkedIn for a preview of what Tokyo offers as a business events destination.
SIGGRAPH Asia Success Showcased in New Video
Tokyo hosted SIGGRAPH Asia 2024 at the Tokyo International Forum this past December, drawing more than 8,400 participants in computer graphics and interactive technology. A new testimonial video from Business Events Tokyo highlights the event’s success and showcases the city’s capability to host dynamic, large-scale conferences.
Houston
Tourism, Air Traffic, and Economic Momentum in Houston
Houston’s tourism sector set a new benchmark in 2024, welcoming over 54 million visitors and generating $3 billion in hotel revenue—a 15.5% increase over the previous year, as reported in Houston First’s annual tourism report. The growth continued into early 2025, with February hotel performance showing gains in occupancy and average daily rate, and January air traffic rising at both Bush Intercontinental and Hobby airports.
To support increasing demand, Bush Intercontinental Airport completed an $81.5 million upgrade to Terminal A, enhancing security screening and baggage handling. Houston’s broader economy is also surging, with the metro area leading all major U.S. cities in two-year GDP growth. And with the National Travel and Tourism Office projecting over 77 million international visitors to the U.S. in 2025, Houston is poised to remain a top destination for global travellers.
Major Upcoming Events at George R. Brown Convention Center
Two major events this spring will draw significant attendance:
- AMCP Annual Meeting and Expo, 31 March – 3 April (4,000 attendees)
- FIRST Robotics Championship, 16–19 April (45,000 attendees)
