Málaga, Spain has redefined itself. Not only as a cultural hotspot but as a rising star in Europe’s meetings and events landscape. At the heart of this transformation lies FYCMA (Palacio de Ferias y Congresos de Málaga), the city’s flagship exhibition and conference centre.
As Málaga gains traction as a serious contender in the MICE world, FYCMA is leading the charge, bolstering business tourism, attracting major global events, and reshaping the city’s international profile.
Founded by the Phoenicians around 770 BC, Málaga is one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in Europe.
Roman, Moorish and Christian civilisations all left their mark, giving rise to a layered architectural and cultural identity that still captivates today.
From its Alcazaba fortress to its Roman theatre and lively art scene, including the acclaimed Museo Picasso, Málaga is steeped in heritage. But it’s this blend of ancient charm and modern infrastructure that’s proving to be its secret weapon in the MICE sector.
In recent decades, the city has undergone a quiet renaissance. Improved transport links including a major international airport and high-speed rail connections have helped reintroduce Málaga as a place not just for sun-seeking tourists, but for serious business.
In the first half of 2024 alone, Málaga hosted 438 professional events across congresses, exhibitions and conventions. These attracted nearly 90,000 delegates and generated an estimated €95m in economic impact, an increase of 27% in event volume and 6% in attendance compared to 2023. These figures don’t just highlight the city’s appeal; they reflect a strategic focus on stabilising seasonality, encouraging investment, and embedding knowledge-based activity into the local economy.
Standing at the epicentre of this growth is FYCMA, the city’s premier venue for business events. Established over two decades ago, the venue spans 60,000 m² and features two expansive exhibition pavilions, an auditorium, and a suite of meeting rooms equipped with the latest AV technology. Its location, just minutes from Málaga–Costa del Sol Airport, makes it ideally suited for international delegates.
But what truly sets FYCMA apart is its role as more than just a venue. It actively promotes and produces events in key sectors such as technology, healthcare, tourism, and sustainability. By curating a robust and thematically rich event calendar, FYCMA plays a vital role in driving the local economy and positioning Málaga as a hub of innovation.
Among its flagship events is the Digital Enterprise Show (DES), an international platform for digital transformation. DES brings together leaders in tech, retail, AI, and digital infrastructure. Not only does the show draw international attention, it also reinforces Málaga’s standing as a centre for digital business, complementing the city’s growing tech ecosystem.
The cumulative impact of events like DES and Comic-Con Málaga is not just economic. These events help elevate the city’s global brand, attract investment, and contribute to a year-round flow of visitors. Hotels, restaurants, and cultural attractions all benefit, while residents enjoy a more diversified economy and increased cultural offerings.
In addition, the city’s embrace of business tourism helps offset seasonal tourism swings, bringing delegates during traditionally quieter periods. This balance has made Málaga a model for how mid-sized cities can use the MICE sector to promote sustainable tourism development.
As the global MICE market is forecast to grow from $503 bn in 2024 to nearly $590 bn by 2033, Málaga is well-positioned to claim a larger share of that market. With FYCMA continuing to expand its event offerings and the city investing in its infrastructure and image, Málaga’s future as a world-class business destination looks increasingly assured.
In a landscape dominated by legacy giants, Málaga is proving that innovation, ambition and authenticity can still make waves. And at the centre of it all stands FYCMA, a venue not just hosting the future but helping shape it.
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