The analysis of international association congresses published by the UIA ranks alongside the ICCA ranking as one of the industry’s most important benchmarks. In the current UIA ranking, Vienna ranks first with 345 meetings, up from second place in the previous year. The last time Vienna topped the UIA ranking was in 2006. Behind Vienna follow Brussels (329 meetings), Seoul (216), Lisbon (174) and Tokyo (156). Places 6 to 10 are held by Barcelona (151), Bangkok (131), London (128), Copenhagen (124) and Rome (120). With 6.2 per cent of all congresses among the 100 cities surveyed, Vienna accounts for a significant share. Over the past 25 years, the Austrian capital has consistently ranked among the top 5.
ICCA ranking: Vienna once again among the global elite
Vienna also confirms its strong position in the ICCA Ranking 2025, with 159 international congresses, ranking 4th worldwide. The ranking is led by Lisbon (188), followed by Paris (174) and Barcelona (166). Behind Vienna are Singapore (156), Prague (133), Copenhagen (131), London (124), Seoul (121) and Tokyo (119). In the leading knowledge sector “Medical Science”, Vienna even takes first place – ahead of Barcelona, Lisbon and Paris. Overall, Vienna has ranked 1st in the ICCA rankings 12 times over the past 25 years.
Anita Paic, Head of the Vienna Convention Bureau, said: “Vienna reclaims first place in the UIA Ranking 2025 for the first time in many years and, with 4th place in the ICCA Ranking, confirms its strong global position – an impressive testament to the city’s appeal. For the Vienna Convention Bureau, this result is both a validation and an incentive: it shows that close collaboration with Vienna’s meetings industry, the consistent development of impact-oriented event formats, and the trust of our clients worldwide make all the difference.”
Norbert Kettner, CEO of Vienna Tourist Board, said: “The top ranking in the UIA ranking underlines the international competitiveness and quality of Vienna as a meeting destination. More than six per cent of all recorded congresses take place in Vienna – a share we aim to maintain together with our partners. This success is the result of the close collaboration of all stakeholders in Vienna’s meeting industry – from congress centres and venues to hotels and agencies, through to our clients. My sincere thanks go to all of them for their long-standing cooperation.”
Learn more about Meeting Destination Vienna here.
