Vizag Set to Emerge as Global MICE Hub with Centre’s Backing

The City of Destiny is strengthening its role in the Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions (MICE) sector. The Union Government has approved funding for Andhra Mandapam, a facility modeled on Delhi’s Bharat Mandapam at Pragati Maidan. The project will boost Visakhapatnam’s goal of becoming an international centre for business tourism and large-scale events.

In the past 16 months, Andhra Pradesh has attracted Rs 30,000 crore in tourism investments. The state plans to add over 10,000 star-rated hotel rooms. It has allocated land to Oberoi and Mayfair for luxury resorts with conferencing facilities. Novotel Varun Beach has already gained recognition for hosting major MICE events.

At the CII Partnership Summit, the state signed 104 MoUs worth Rs 17,973 crore in the tourism sector. Tourism Minister Kandula Durgest said the government is building the infrastructure and creating the ecosystem to attract national and international conventions.

The Star Hotels’ Association of Andhra Pradesh proposed converting a former government residential complex, now the Chief Minister’s Office, into a dedicated MICE hub. Meanwhile, Abu Dhabi-based LuLu Group signed an MoU to develop a six lakh sq. ft. convention centre, a two-million sq. ft. multiplex, and a five-star hotel at Harbour Park, offering panoramic sea views.

Vijay Mohan, president of the Tours and Travels Association of Andhra, warned that the city is losing revenue due to the lack of large venues. He called for clear policies and strict timelines to speed up development.

During the summit, Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu offered a scenic hilltop site with sea views for the convention centre, provided central funding is approved. Union Minister Piyush Goyal said Andhra Mandapam will be a world-class venue for conferences, exhibitions, and trade shows. It will put Visakhapatnam firmly on the global MICE map.

Currently, the city lacks facilities for destination weddings and major events. Many organisers shift their events to Bhubaneswar or Hyderabad. To address this, the state is exploring collaboration with the India Trade Promotion Organisation (ITPO) to replace temporary setups.

With government support and private investment, Visakhapatnam is set to become a key MICE destination, driving tourism and economic growth.