The organizing body, GSMA, estimates that the 585 million euro figure represents a 4.3% increase compared to the 2025 edition. The event, held at the Gran Via venue, expects to gather over 100,000 attendees from more than 200 countries. Organizers expressed confidence that the recent mobility and transport issues that have affected Barcelona will be resolved before the congress begins.
“"Barcelona is where everything happens. It is something we work very, very hard on to keep it the same, yet innovative."
GSMA President John Hoffman highlighted that this year marks the 20th anniversary since the congress first landed in the Catalan capital. Hoffman emphasized the 'firm commitment' of the mobile industry association to Barcelona, noting that over these two decades, the event has helped create around 100,000 temporary jobs.
Lara Dewar, GSMA Marketing Director, added that Barcelona offers a 'unique combination' of exhibition, leadership, startups, and public policy debate. Major thematic novelties for this edition include the space sector, future airports, and smart mobility.
Key new features include 'New Frontiers', a dedicated area for satellite connectivity and the space sector, featuring Gwynne Shotwell, President of SpaceX, and Michael Nicolls, VP of Engineering at Starlink. Furthermore, the 4 Years From Now (4YFN) event, dedicated to entrepreneurs, will continue, introducing an exclusive access area and a specific ticket priced at 399 euros this year.
