“From November 9 to 12, 2025, we’ll be heading to Porto, Portugal, and from November 8 to 11, 2026, we’ll set a course for Panama City, Panama,” said ICCA CEO, Senthil Gopinath.
“ICCA is thrilled to head to these world-class cities for the meetings and events industry’s flagship event, two locations that share ICCA’s vision for a dynamic, innovative and forward-thinking business events industry.”
Luís Pedro Martins, president of the Porto and North of Portugal Convention and Visitors Bureau, said Porto would offer the meeting “a unique blend of tradition and modernity”.
“With our world-class venues, vibrant culture and rich heritage, we are confident that Porto will provide an unforgettable experience for all delegates.
“Our commitment to excellence and sustainability ensures that the 2025 congress will be a landmark event, celebrating not only ICCA’s mission but also the 30th anniversary of the Porto and North of Portugal Convention and Visitors Bureau.
“Join us in Porto for an inspiring and transformative congress concept.”
Meanwhile Panama’s affiliation with ICCA is helping the destination position itself for association meetings.
“Panama has implemented an ambitious strategy to consolidate its position as a premier global destination for international meetings and congresses,” said Fernando Fondevila, CEO of PROMTUR Panama, a destination marketing agency in Panama.
“Our partnership with ICCA, one of the world’s industry-leading organisations, has been instrumental in this journey.
“We are proud to be the only ICCA partner in Latin America, to host its next Regional Office, and to have been selected to host its 2026 congress.
“Hosting this congress represents a transcendental milestone for our destination, which once again reaffirms its position as an epicentre for the generation of socioeconomic opportunities, the exchange of knowledge and legacy through the business events industry.”
This year’s ICCA Congress is taking place in Abu Dhabi in the United Arab Emirates from October 20 to 23.
Content pillars for the 2024 conference are technology and innovation, cultural awareness and social impacts, sustainability and environmental impact and business trends and growth.
