Montréal continues to shine on the international stage: for the eighth consecutive year, the Union of International Associations (UIA) crowned it the top city in the Americas for hosting international gatherings.
With 103 major events meeting the UIA’s criteria in 2024, Montréal significantly outranked its closest rival, Washington, D.C., with 71 events. This performance enabled the city to consolidate its first place in the Americas, and to leap forward in global rankings, from 20th to 11th. This distinction was awarded a few weeks after the International Congress and Convention Association (ICCA) designated the city, for the ninth consecutive year, the top destination for international association events in North America, explained the Palais des congrès de Montréal.
This renewed success is the fruit of a unique and unprecedented synergy between Tourisme Montréal, the Palais des congrès de Montréal and a committed network of business tourism players. Together, these partners make the Quebec city a destination par excellence for major international professional gatherings, noted a press release.
By reaffirming its leadership, Montréal confirms once again its tremendous power of attraction, and the solid contribution of business tourism to Québec’s economic dynamism and international reach, it said.
“This ranking confirms that Montréal has a little extra something that attracts and retains associations from around the world. It reflects a dynamic and agile ecosystem, a committed business and scientific community that collaborates and mobilizes. This top ranking is, above all, a recognition of the passion we put into creating memorable experiences commensurate with our city’s reputation,” said Emmanuelle Legault, President and CEO of the Palais des congrès de Montréal.
“Being number one in the Americas for the eighth year doesn’t come out of nowhere. It’s a reflection of a city that knows how to welcome, innovate and mobilize. When we line up the awards—UIA, ICCA and many others—it’s clear: Montréal is more than a destination, it’s a safe bet for congress and event organizers,” said Yves Lalumière, President and CEO of Tourisme Montréal.
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