BestCities Global Forum 2027 to Mark 10th Edition in Cape Town

BestCities Global Alliance has confirmed that its 2027 Global Forum will be held in Cape Town from 21 to 24 January, marking the 10th edition of the event.

The Forum will bring together international association leaders under the theme “Connected by Purpose: Global Perspectives, Shared Values”. Further details, including registration, are expected to be released in the coming months.

Originally scheduled to take place in Dubai, the event has been relocated following what organisers described as a precautionary decision in response to regional developments. The alliance confirmed that its partnership with Dubai remains ongoing, with future initiatives under discussion.

Strategic destination choice

The selection of Cape Town reflects its growing role within the global meetings and association landscape. The destination has continued to build its reputation for hosting international events, supported by established infrastructure and experience in delivering large-scale gatherings.

Hosting the 10th anniversary edition places both Cape Town and South Africa at the centre of international association dialogue at a time when destinations are increasingly positioning business events as drivers of knowledge exchange and economic development.

Loren Christie, Managing Director of BestCities Global Alliance, said: “As we look ahead to the 10th anniversary of the Global Forum, we’re thrilled to bring this milestone edition to Cape Town, a destination that offers both exceptional capability and a powerful sense of place,” said Loren Christie, Managing Director, BestCities Global Alliance. “The Forum is a special event that brings together a unique set of global perspectives. I can’t think of a better destination than Cape Town to host this marquee event.”

“Cape Town and the Western Cape is honoured to host the BestCities Global Forum. This prestigious event underscores our strong commitment to the association sector and the vital role that business events play in strengthening our knowledge economy, advancing key industries, and creating meaningful benefits for our communities,” said Wrenelle Stander, CEO of Wesgro, and the official spokesperson of the Cape Town & Western Cape Convention Bureau.

“As the leading convention destination in Africa, Cape Town takes the association market seriously and continues to invest in creating impactful, globally relevant meetings. We look forward to providing not only a world-class setting, but also an inspiring environment for productive dialogue, collaboration, and innovation.”

Anniversary edition

The 2027 Forum represents a milestone for the BestCities Global Alliance, bringing together its network and the wider association community for its 10th edition. The event is expected to focus on global collaboration, shared challenges and the evolving role of associations within the meetings industry.
 

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