UFI Global Congress 2026 concludes in Bahrain, 2027 event set for Guadalajara
The 93rd UFI Global Congress finished in Bahrain on 5 November 2026 and UFI announced that the 94th Congress will take place in Guadalajara, Mexico from 2 to 5 November 2027, affecting exhibition professionals planning future attendance.
In this story
At a glance
- What changes
- Next UFI Global Congress venue moves from Bahrain to Guadalajara
- Timing
- 2027 Congress scheduled for 2‑5 November 2027
- Who is affected
- Exhibition industry professionals planning to attend the 2027 event
The details
- Announced by
- UFI, The Global Association of the Exhibition Industry
- Takes effect
- 2 to 5 November 2027
- Previous rule
- The 93rd UFI Global Congress was held in Bahrain from 2 to 5 November 2026.
- New rule
- UFI confirmed the 94th Congress will be hosted by the Guadalajara Convention and Visitors Bureau in Mexico from 2 to 5 November 2027.
Event Summary
Industry leaders gathered in Bahrain for the 93rd UFI Global Congress between 2 and 5 November 2026. The four‑day programme, themed “Stronger Connections, Smarter Futures”, featured panels on market uncertainty, digital transformation and the enduring value of face‑to‑face business.
Delegates also enjoyed a post‑congress tour of Bahrain’s cultural sites, including the UNESCO‑listed Pearling Path and Manama Souq.
Leadership Transition
The Bahrain congress marked a leadership change within UFI. Wolfram Diener, CEO of Messe Düsseldorf, assumed the UFI presidency for the 2026‑27 term, succeeding Panittha Buri. Both executives will serve together with Incoming President Said Al Shanfari in a presidential Trio throughout 2027 to ensure continuity.
Next Congress Announcement
Following the Bahrain gathering, UFI announced that the 94th Global Congress will be held in Guadalajara, Mexico. The event is scheduled for 2‑5 November 2027 and will be hosted by the Guadalajara Convention and Visitors Bureau.
The decision provides the international exhibition community with a new destination in Latin America and continues the annual November cadence established by recent editions.
What this means for travellers
Trip planning
- Exhibition professionals aiming to attend the 2027 Congress should note the new dates of 2‑5 November 2027.
- Travel agents can begin sourcing accommodation and venue options in Guadalajara for the November 2027 window.
Cost and documents
- No new fees or documentation requirements were mentioned for the venue change.
- Participants should verify any visa or entry requirements for Mexico well before travel.
What you need to do
- Monitor UFI communications for registration opening dates for the 2027 Congress.
- Check with the Guadalajara Convention and Visitors Bureau for any early‑bird booking incentives.
- Update travel itineraries if previously planning to attend a Bahrain event in 2027.
Who this affects
-
Exhibition professionals planning to attend 2027 UFI Congress
The venue and dates for the 94th Congress have been announced for Guadalajara, Mexico.
What to do Track registration announcements and arrange travel to Mexico for November 2027.
-
Travel agencies serving exhibition industry clients
Clients will need accommodation, flights and visa support for the new location.
What to do Prepare packages for Guadalajara in November 2027 and advise on entry requirements.
-
Event sponsors and partners
Sponsorship opportunities shift to a Mexican venue for the next congress.
What to do Contact UFI for updated sponsorship prospectus for the 2027 event.
Frequently asked questions
When and where is the next UFI Global Congress?
The 94th UFI Global Congress will be held in Guadalajara, Mexico from 2 to 5 November 2027, as announced by UFI.
Who announced the 2027 UFI Congress venue?
UFI, The Global Association of the Exhibition Industry, confirmed the venue change to Guadalajara, Mexico.
What was the theme of the 2026 UFI Congress in Bahrain?
The 93rd Congress in Bahrain was themed “Stronger Connections, Smarter Futures”.
Will there be any new fees for attending the 2027 Congress?
The source does not mention any new fees; participants should await official registration details for cost information.
How can I stay updated on registration for the 2027 Congress?
Monitor UFI’s official communications and the Guadalajara Convention and Visitors Bureau website for announcements on registration openings and deadlines.
