- The MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Events) tourism sector in Alicante generated €6.4 million in economic impact in the first six months of 2025.
- Approximately 17,000 participants attended 42 congresses and meetings along with 201 corporate events.
- Alicante is on track to surpass 62 MICE events in the second half of 2025,with major international congresses scheduled for 2026 and 2027.
- The tourism council highlights the increasing importance of international participants and knowledge exchange through these events.
- Noteworthy upcoming events include the European Drosophila Research Conference, Spanish Hepatic Transplant Society Congress, and the World Congress of Social marketing.
Economic Boost from MICE Tourism in Alicante Reaches €6.4 Million in Early 2025
Alicante is reaffirming its position as a premier destination for MICE tourism (Meetings, incentives, conferences, and Events) with a remarkable economic impact of €6.4 million during the first half of 2025. The city attracted nearly 17,000 participants to 42 congresses and meetings, combined with 201 corporate events, showcasing the strength and continued growth of this niche tourism sector.
Robust Numbers and Future Outlook
According to the Patronato de Turismo Alicante City & Beach, the first six months of 2025 saw a flourishing event calendar, with expectations to exceed 62 conferences and corporate events by the year-end. The city has already secured bookings for roughly 20 congresses spanning 2026 and 2027, signaling a bright future fueled by both local and international engagement.
Quality Tourism with Lasting Impact
Tourism councillor Ana Poquet emphasizes the significance of MICE tourism beyond just economic numbers. She states,”These events not only contribute economically at a first-class level to Alicante’s economy but also promote quality tourism.” Ana Poquet further notes the invaluable knowledge exchange and synergies generated from these events, which enrich the city culturally and professionally, even if such benefits are hard to quantify.
She also credits the dedicated efforts of the Alicante Convention Bureau and local stakeholders for driving the sector’s success especially with growing international penetration.
International Events Driving Growth
| Event | Date | Venue | Expected Attendance |
|---|---|---|---|
| European Drosophila Research Conference | Sept 25-28, 2025 | ADDA | 800 |
| Spanish Hepatic Transplant Society Congress | oct 22-24, 2025 | ADDA | 250 |
| alicante Past Wine Capital Congress | Oct 29-31, 2025 | MARQ | 200 |
| World Social Marketing Congress | Nov 5-7, 2025 | University of Alicante | 400 |
| Spanish endodontics Association Congress | Oct 30-Nov 1, 2025 | ADDA | 1,200 |
Highlighting Alicante’s appeal as a meeting destination, the second half of 2025 will host some of the city’s largest gatherings.The Spanish Endodontics Association Congress alone expects an attendance of 1,200 professionals, making it the largest event of the year.
Looking Ahead: Major MICE Events for 2026 and 2027
- January 2026: Congress of the Royal Academy of the spanish Mathematical Society (500 attendees)
- May 2026: International Convention of Technical Architecture (500 attendees)
- June 2026: Congress of the Spanish Society of Radiation Oncology (500 attendees)
- 2027: Congress on Transportation Engineering, among others
These upcoming events are expected to maintain and enhance Alicante’s image as a hub for scientific, medical, and technical congresses, ensuring substantial economic and social benefits for the region.
Why MICE Tourism Matters for Alicante
The MICE sector is a critical pillar for Alicante’s economy and tourism industry. Unlike customary leisure tourism, MICE visitors tend to stay longer, spend more, and boost the local economy throughout the year, minimizing off-season fluctuations. Moreover, attracting international conferences helps establish Alicante’s global profile and fosters professional networks and innovation exchange.
with strategic planning, stakeholder collaboration, and steadily growing international reach, Alicante is well-positioned to continue leading in Spain’s MICE tourism market.
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