Q1: What makes your venue truly unique for meeting planners?
Sava Center is more than just a venue – it’s a strategic meeting point for ideas, people, and industries. What makes us unique is our ability to offer everything event organizers need in one place: excellent connectivity with an international airport just minutes away, flexible and technologically advanced facilities, and a full range of supporting services under one roof. Since reopening after a comprehensive renovation, Sava Center hosted over 530 events in 2024 alone, welcoming more than 500,000 visitors. These impressive numbers are not just a testament to our capacity but also to the trust we have built with domestic and international clients. Moreover, Belgrade offers an authentic mix of tradition and modernity – a destination that participants remember long after the event ends.
Q2: If your venue were a personality, how would you describe it?
Sava Center would be a person full of positive energy – a confident leader with the warmth and attentiveness of a true host. Someone who connects worlds inspires creativity and always goes the extra mile. Whether you are coming from academia, the corporate sector, or the creative industries, you will be welcomed by someone who understands your needs and delivers more than you expect.
Q3: What are the three key experiences that every event attendee should have when visiting your venue?
1. A sense of belonging – the feeling of being part of a thoughtfully organized and seamlessly executed event.
2. A culinary journey – our in-house catering team blends local flavours with international influences to create memorable dining experiences.
3. True hospitality – a professional yet relaxed atmosphere where networking and collaboration happen naturally.
Q4: How has your destination positioned itself as a leader in the meetings industry?
With an investment of €120 million by Delta Holding, Sava Center has re-emerged as the most advanced and largest convention facility in Southeast Europe. Spaces like the Blue Hall, which seats 4,050 attendees (the largest plenary hall in the region), along with VIP boxes and world-class AV systems, allow us to host events of any size or complexity. We’re proud to have earned the trust of global leaders such as AstraZeneca, Porsche, Samsung, L’Oréal, Telekom Serbia, and Expo 2027. A true milestone awaits in May 2025, when we’ll host Heart Failure 2025, the World Congress of Cardiologists, bringing 8,000 delegates to Belgrade – the largest event of its kind in the city’s history.
Q5: What are the biggest challenges and opportunities you foresee in the industry over the next three years?
The greatest challenge lies in rapidly evolving technologies – from AI to hybrid formats. But that also presents the biggest opportunity: to innovate, to build smarter digital infrastructure, and to reshape events as transformative spaces for connection and knowledge exchange. Expo 2027, for which Belgrade will be the host city, is a powerful catalyst that will further elevate our visibility on the global MICE map and bring new partnerships and possibilities.
Q6: How do you engage with international event organisers and decision-makers to showcase your destination?
Our strategy focuses on professional, direct, and personalized communication with key stakeholders. We are present at major trade shows and international MICE marketplaces, and we nurture global partnerships through targeted campaigns and tailored bids. Through active membership in international associations and a strong presence of our representatives worldwide, we continuously grow Sava Center’s recognition and reputation.
“Sava Center acts as a bridge between local industries and international markets, engaging domestic suppliers, caterers, technicians, and creatives in high-profile events.”
Q10: How do you support local businesses, suppliers, and venues in growing their appeal for international meetings?
We believe in synergy with the local ecosystem. Sava Center acts as a bridge between local industries and international markets, engaging domestic suppliers, caterers, technicians, and creatives in high-profile events. Our mission is to ensure that the benefits of the growing MICE sector are felt across the broader economy.
Q11: What initiatives do you have in place to ensure long-term growth in the MICE sector?
We are building long-term growth through education, innovation, and investment in young professionals. Alongside continuous modernization of our facilities and digital tools, we are developing programs that support and empower the next generation of industry leaders. Their fresh perspective and energy are key to the future of MICE. We are also deeply committed to sustainability – Sava Center is the first refurbished venue in this part of Europe to receive the BREEAM certification, positioning us as a responsible and environmentally conscious choice for event organizers with high ESG standards.
Q12: What advice would you give to hotels looking to elevate their profile in the meetings industry?
Be authentic. Instead of trying to replicate others, focus on what makes your destination unique. Highlight your cultural roots and values while embracing innovation and smart infrastructure. Quality, consistency, and genuine hospitality never go unnoticed. And most importantly, stay unique and do your best.
Find out more about Sava Centar here.
