BestCities Global Alliance concluded its annual Global Forum on February 8, 2026, bringing together international association leaders and industry experts to explore the intersection of cultural heritage and business events.
The four-day event, supported by the Guadalajara Visitors and Convention Bureau, focused on community impact and environmental responsibility while showcasing iconic local venues such as the UNESCO-listed Hospicio Cabañas and Expo Guadalajara.
The forum integrated social and environmental goals into its core programming. The “Engage for Good” initiative raised US$2,500 for a local ballet school supporting vulnerable youth, and the forum offset 155 tonnes of emissions and planted 945 trees in partnership with ZEERO Events.
BestCities extended its partnership with Snapsight, an AI platform that captures live event content and turns it into actionable insights. Delegates received real-time summaries, complete transcripts, key takeaways, and visual clouds
The alliance announced that the 10th anniversary of the Global Forum will return to its inaugural host city, Dubai, from January 20 to 24, 2027.
The upcoming forum, themed Tomorrow in Motion, will focus on building long-term resilience and shared prosperity between international associations and their host destinations.
