EUSKALDUNA BILBAO SELECTED TO HOST THE NEXT EDITION OF THE AIPC ANNUAL CONFERENCE

Euskalduna Bilbao has been selected as the venue to host the next edition of the AIPC Annual Conference, the world’s leading event for the convention centre industry. “The quality of the bid made the difference,” stated the AIPC General Secretariat when selecting the Bilbao Conference and Concert Hall as the host of this international gathering. The announcement was made today during the current annual conference, taking place in the Chinese city of Shenzhen, attended by Iñigo Iturrate, General Manager of Euskalduna Bilbao; Begoña Anguisola, Business Development Director; and Ander de Gregorio, Technical Director.

From June 28 to July 1, 2026, Bilbao will become the global epicentre of the MICE sector (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences & Exhibitions), the industry dedicated to organizing meetings, incentives, congresses and exhibitions. Euskalduna Bilbao will bring together international leaders and representatives from the world’s most influential convention centres. Prior to the current event in Shenzhen, previous editions have been held in cities such as Luxembourg, Budapest, Paris, Sydney and London, among others.

“The designation of Euskalduna Bilbao as the host of the AIPC Annual Conference 2026 is a true milestone,” said Iñigo Iturrate. “Welcoming this community to our venue, our city and our region is a privilege that we take on with the utmost commitment to excellence and innovation.”

Beyond recognition of Euskalduna Bilbao’s track record, this achievement highlights the profound transformation experienced by the city of Bilbao and the territory of Bizkaia, now internationally recognized for their ability to reinvent themselves and project a cutting-edge urban, cultural and economic model. At the same time, it endorses Euskalduna Bilbao’s management model, which combines strategic vision, a commitment to sustainability and excellence in service.

AIPC, the world’s leading association of convention centres, brings together professionals from more than 50 countries across five continents and aims to promote and recognize excellence in the management of these venues. It is worth noting that Euskalduna Bilbao was already awarded the title of Best Convention Centre in the World in 2003, a distinction that is now reinforced by this new designation as host of the AIPC Annual Conference.