Catalonia’s and Spain’s economy is set to receive a major boost: the world’s largest mobile technology congress is returning to Barcelona with ambitious plans. Organizers expect over 100,000 visitors from 200 countries and a record turnover of €585 million. For local businesses, hotels, and the service sector, this is a chance for new jobs and a revival after challenging years.
This year, MWC celebrates its twentieth anniversary in the Catalan capital. Over this time, the forum has become not only a trademark of the city but also a key driver for the country’s entire technology sector. According to GSMA estimates, the event has helped create around 100,000 temporary jobs over two decades. Despite competition from other cities, Barcelona remains the main home for the forum, and organizers make no secret of their commitment to this location.
New horizons
In 2026, organizers are betting on topics that until recently seemed like science fiction. Space technologies, smart airports, and the transport of the future will be in the spotlight. Hall 6 will feature a special ‘New Frontiers’ zone (Nuevas Fronteras), bringing together leaders in the satellite communications industry. Among the invitees are top executives from SpaceX and Starlink, promising big announcements and unexpected discussions.
Another innovation is CircuitX, a new space at the Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya circuit, where the latest developments in smart mobility will be showcased through immersive demonstrations. Beyond the main exhibition center, the ‘Airport of the Future’ project will unfold, with partners such as Airbus and Outsight presenting digital travel solutions, including electronic baggage tags and pet passports.
Focus on innovation
This year places special emphasis on startups and young companies. The 4 Years From Now (4YFN) platform will serve as a hub for entrepreneurs, investors, and innovators. For the first time, a separate ticket for this zone has been introduced at 399 euros, along with an exclusive entrance on the northern side of the venue. At the 4YFN26 Awards competition, twenty of the best startups will present their projects to investors ready to invest up to 60 billion euros.
Organizers emphasize that the combination of exhibition, business program, and startup ecosystem makes MWC a unique event not only for professionals but also for the wider public. This year, the forum promises to become a platform for discussing the most pressing issues of the digital age—from regulation to the adoption of new technologies in everyday life.
Challenges and trials
Despite the festive atmosphere, preparations for the event are taking place amid transport challenges in Barcelona. Organizers offered their condolences following the recent railway accident in Adamuz and expressed confidence that all mobility issues will be resolved by the start of the forum. For the city, this is not only a matter of reputation but also a real challenge: to handle the influx of guests and ensure uninterrupted operation of the infrastructure.
However, Barcelona has repeatedly proven its ability to host world-class events. This year, the stakes are especially high: not only millions of euros are at risk, but also the city’s status as Europe’s technological capital. Expectations are high, and the intrigue surrounding new projects and big names is only fueling interest in the upcoming congress.
