The MICE Migration: Top 10 Cities That Will Replace the Usual Suspects by 2030

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As the global MICE industry progresses, so too are the cities that host its most vibrant events. While established leaders such as London and Singapore will continue to shine, these inputs are provided by Vikash Kejriwal, Chief Executive Officer, SKIL, who highlights that a new wave of emerging destinations is capturing MICE attention with their cultural richness, creative capital, and sustainable infrastructure. These cities are redefining what it means to host world-class events. From strategic connectivity to experiential local flavor, here are ten emerging MICE hotspots poised to rival the typical landmarks by 2030.

1. Baku, Azerbaijan: Baku, the dazzling capital of Azerbaijan, is emerging fast as a significant MICE destination to rival traditional MICE cities and subsequently, by 2030. Baku is located at the crossover point between Europe and Asia and offers a unique combination of location, luxury, and affordability. The skyline is filled with state-of-the-art hotels as well as modern convention venues, including the Baku Expo Center, and cultural attractions like the Flame Towers and the Heydar Aliyev Center. Before and after the meetings, delegates can stroll along the beautiful Caspian Sea promenade, visit the Old City (Azerbaijan is recognised as a UNESCO heritage site), and sample traditional Azerbaijani cuisine. Baku has modern infrastructure and is culturally and architecturally attractive to the East-West blend that is needed for today's global business events.

2. Hyderabad, India: Hyderabad is quickly establishing itself as a leading global destination in the MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, Exhibitions) sector, with goals of surpassing traditional contenders by 2030. The city has top-notch event venues including the Hyderabad International Convention Centre (HICC) and HITEX Exhibition Centre, alongside a cohesive support infrastructure for international events. Dubbed as India’s pharma-tech capital, Hyderabad boasts a wealth of heritage, cuisine and culture with sites including the Charminar and Hussain Sagar Lake. You can also rely on luxurious hotels like the Taj Falaknuma Palace or ITC Kohenur or partake in activities around the Golkonda Fort or dig into the local Hyderabadi biryani while effortlessly blending work and leisure.

3. Tbilisi, Georgia: Tbilisi, Georgia is quickly establishing itself as a hidden treasure for MICE travel, providing opportunity and a refreshing alternative to traditional business locations. With visa-on-arrivals for many nationalities, reasonable infrastructure, exceptional landscapes, Tbilisi is a prime destination for unique, small-scale corporate experiences. Imagine a small corporate meeting in an ancient historic site that overlooks the Kura River, staying in boutique hotels in Old Town, and taking small groups on inexpensive wine tours in the nearby Kakheti region, or sulfur bath experiences in Abanotubani. Tbilisi is hemmed in charm, culture, and convenience a worthy consideration for future forward MICE planning.

4. Nairobi, Kenya: Nairobi is emerging as a dynamic MICE destination and by 2030 may rival traditional destinations. As the gateway to East Africa, Nairobi has world-class conference facilities and exhilaration. The Kenyatta International Convention Centre, business hotels, and venues are all ideal for international events. After the meetings, delegates can enjoy a safari at Nairobi National Park, dinner at the well-known Carnivore restaurant, or an art tour in the surrounding areas of the Maasai Market. Nairobi has MICE and adventure planned, with infrastructure improved and visas now much faster.

5. Krakow, Poland: Krakow is quickly becoming a competitive alternative MICE destination, providing a unique alternative to Berlin or Prague. Krakow has a spectacular Old Town, new conference facilities, and very reasonably priced hotels with thousands of rooms. It offers the blend of old-world charm with modern infrastructure. Delegates can experience historic sites including Wawel Castle, be involved in team and partner-building in the Tatra Mountains, or relax in a café in the Kazimierz district. From boutique accommodation to modern-day conference centres and Polish hospitality, Krakow will provide a unique, effective, and culturally rich MICE experience.

6. Riyadh, Saudi Arabia: Riyadh is quickly becoming a MICE destination, fuelled by Saudi Arabia's Vision 2030 investment in world-class infrastructure across the kingdom. The city is evolving into an exciting destination for international meetings and events with billions of dollars in investment. In addition to being in a world-class boardroom, delegates will be exposed to cultural experiences in and around Riyadh, including Diriyah and the National Museum of Saudi Arabia or thrilling desert experiences, not to mention dining at the luxury restaurants along the bustling Boulevard Riyadh City. Riyadh redefines business travel with its dynamic mix of modernity, its past in heritage experiences, and its future in hospitality.

7. Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam: Ho Chi Minh City is rapidly becoming a vibrant alternative to traditional MICE locations in Asia. The affordable infrastructure, developing inventory of new convention centres and an international airport with flights all over the world, makes the city a perfect destination for regional conferences and incentive travel. In addition to a wide variety of colourful street markets for shopping, attendees can enjoy a sunset cruise along the Saigon River or visit some famous sites like the Cu Chi Tunnels. As for accommodating delegates, for a luxury experience, The Reverie Saigon and Hotel Nikko provide a level of hospitality found in any top hotel in the world combined with the warmth of being treated with Vietnamese hospitality.

8. Tunis, Tunisia: Tunis, as the capital of Tunisia, has rapidly emerged as a different destination for MICE travellers as it is so close to Europe and combines ancient and modern. Delegates can wander through the historic Medina, explore the ruins of Carthage, sample seaside dining in Sidi Bou Said; with luxury hotels including The Residence Tunis, Laico Hotel and more convention facilities are starting to become available as well. Tunis can offer a lively colourful, culturally rich option for business events.

9. Ahmedabad, India: Ahmedabad is quickly becoming a highly sought after MICE destination with excellent facilities, world-class infrastructure like Mahatma Mandir Convention Centre, great connectivity, and affordable, user-friendly metro-style city. The city offers business, culture, and experience; delegates can visit Sabarmati Ashram, shop at Law Garden, or inherit the heritage trail in old Ahmedabad. The city's premium accommodations like Hyatt Regency or Taj Skyline offer the best in comfort, as well as guided dining or craft experiences to deepen the local flavour for each of your events.

10. Cartagena, Colombia: With its stunning Old Town, luxury beach resorts, and lively food scene, it provides a unique backdrop for conferences and corporate retreats. Historical venues like the Cartagena Convention Center and Sofitel Legend Santa Clara offer exciting opportunities to sprinkle a little history into modern meetings. When it’s not work, delegates can experience island hopping, salsa nights, and sunset cruises along the amazing coastline of the city.

The future of motivation, incentive, conference and exhibitions needs new ways of thinking, new reasons to visit. New cities are not just alternatives, but pioneers that are changing the global event space. In 2030; they won't just be an option, they will be the choice.