In 2023, visit.brussels boosted Brussels' visibility and attractiveness on the international market through targeted strategic initiatives, including participation in international trade fairs, the deployment of MICE sales initiatives, support for congress, trade show and event organisers, and the activation of the Ambassador Programme. Each of these actions helped to promote Brussels as a destination of choice for tourism and business events.
Business tourism
435.856
Business Events overnight stays*
1.940
B2B Events**
#1
Brussels UIA ranking***
* overnight stays for conventions confirmed or supported by the Convention Association Bureau and held in 2023. + 155% vs 2022
** business meetings held/organised on our stands by visit.brussels and its partners. 2022 data not available.
*** Brussels ranked in the "Most Popular meeting cities" category of the Union of International Associations in 2022. 2021 : 1st.
visit.brussels attended a number of international trade fairs, mainly in Europe, drawing attention to Brussels in the MICE tourism sector. With notable participation at IMEX Frankfurt and IBTM, visit.brussels adopted a sustainable and reusable stand concept, underlining its commitment to the environment. The year also saw 19 innovative sales initiatives. These varied and interactive actions, such as "Brussels on the Road" and sales missions, helped to expand the visit.brussels network, give our prospects a Brussels experience and strengthen the destination's appeal.
visit.brussels actively canvassed and worked closely with local experts on bids to host new conferences and trade shows. The teams also defended 20 bids, with 12 winning bids in 2023. These efforts included hosting international associations at site inspections.
The visit.brussels programme provided crucial support for over 20 professional events, which in turn facilitated the hosting of over 20,000 international delegates. This support played a key role in promoting Brussels as an international conference and exhibition capital, attracting major new events and their economic spin-offs.
The Ambassador Programme mobilised a network of experts to support Brussels' bid to host international trade events. The annual Ambassadors' evening rewarded 12 winners for their commitment, strengthening Brussels' network of influence.
Discover the next topic :