The wait is over. IMEX Frankfurt 2026 officially opens today, 19 May 2026, at Messe Frankfurt in Germany, marking the start of one of the world's most influential gatherings for the global meetings, incentives, conferences and exhibitions industry.
Running from 19–21 May 2026, IMEX Frankfurt has once again convened thousands of exhibitors, hosted buyers, tourism boards, convention bureaus, hotels, airlines, destination management companies, event technology providers, and business event professionals from across the globe. The show opened following a specialist education day held on Monday, 18 May, which focused on industry learning, innovation and collaboration.
Recognized as Europe's largest trade show for the meetings and events sector, IMEX Frankfurt continues to play a major role in shaping the future of global business events by driving conversations around networking, sustainability, experience design, partnerships and industry transformation.
Theme: "Design Matters"
This year's edition is centered around the industry talking point "Design Matters," a theme that explores the role of design in creating meaningful human experiences, strengthening brands and advancing innovation within the events ecosystem. The theme aligns strategically with Frankfurt RheinMain's designation as the World Design Capital 2026.
Human Experiences
Creating meaningful connections
Brand Strengthening
Strategic design for brand impact
Innovation
Advancing the events ecosystem
Unprecedented Global Participation
The scale of participation already reflects the continued resilience and growth of the global MICE sector. Countries, destinations and hospitality brands from around the world are actively showcasing their offerings, with several tourism boards and convention authorities using the platform to strengthen international partnerships and attract future meetings and incentive business.
Strategic Gateway for Africa
For Africa's business events industry, IMEX Frankfurt remains a strategic gateway to global visibility, international buyers and cross-border collaboration opportunities. The event offers African destinations and brands a powerful platform to position themselves within the rapidly evolving global meetings and incentive travel landscape.
Messe Frankfurt: A World-Class Venue
Hosted at Messe Frankfurt, one of Europe's leading exhibition venues, the show is expected to facilitate thousands of business meetings, educational sessions and networking engagements over the next three days.
As the doors officially open today, the global MICE community once again gathers in Frankfurt to exchange ideas, create partnerships and shape the future of business events worldwide.
IMEX Frankfurt 2026: Where the global MICE community connects, collaborates, and creates the future of business events.
Three days of networking, learning, and partnership-building that will shape the industry for years to come.
