In this special BOTT feature, 15 leading hospitality professionals share their insights on the opportunities, emerging trends and the future of MICE in India.
Priyanka Saxena Ray, Gunjan Sabikhi & Shreya Shimpi
Greesh Bindra
Executive Vice President, The Suryaa New Delhi
The rise of Experiential MICE
India’s MICE sector is experiencing remarkable momentum, fuelled by the resurgence of corporate travel, a growing calendar of international sporting events and rising demand for immersive, experience-led gatherings. Sports tourism has emerged as a high-growth opportunity, with The Suryaa New Delhi hosting golf tournaments, international shooting competitions, cricket leagues and Paralympic events, while welcoming world-class athletes including Sheetal Devi. As the sector evolves, hotels are moving beyond venue providers to become end-to-end event partners offering specialised infrastructure, personalised services and operational expertise.
Personalised celebrations, seamless execution
Destination weddings have become one of the hotel’s fastest-growing business segments, complementing its corporate MICE portfolio. Thoughtfully designed indoor banquet halls and picturesque outdoor venues, supported by bespoke décor, curated culinary journeys, dedicated wedding planning and seamless event execution, create memorable celebrations. By balancing destination weddings with corporate MICE business, The Suryaa New Delhi maximises its event infrastructure while delivering exceptional, experience-driven hospitality across diverse customer segments.
Manish Dayya
General Manager, Pullman and Novotel New Delhi Aerocity
Wellness-led evolution of MICE
India’s MICE sector is witnessing strong growth, driven by rising corporate travel, world-class convention infrastructure and the country’s growing appeal for global business events. Hotels are evolving into end-to-end event partners, with wellness-led experiences, healthier dining, bleisure travel and hybrid events shaping modern event design. AI, seamless digital engagement and flexible meeting spaces are redefining attendee experiences, while investments in convention facilities and strategic partnerships are enabling hotels to deliver integrated, technology-enabled events with greater scale, efficiency and personalisation.
One Destination, Multiple Experiences
At Pullman and Novotel New Delhi Aerocity, destination weddings and corporate MICE business thrive together through flexible infrastructure, personalised planning and seamless execution. Backed by Accor’s ALL For Love campaign, the hotels offer 670 rooms, over 40,000 sq. ft. of event space, a pillarless ballroom, multiple meeting rooms and curated dining and wellness experiences. Dedicated event specialists create bespoke celebrations and conferences, enabling the hotels to host multiple large-scale events simultaneously while maintaining exceptional service standards and memorable guest experiences.
Manuj Ralhan
General Manager, Novotel Jaipur Convention Centre & Jaipur Exhibition and Convention Centre (JECC)
Experience-led MICE
India’s MICE sector is entering a transformative phase, driven by stronger infrastructure, improved connectivity and growing government support for business tourism. Today’s organisers seek flexibility, seamless execution, technology, sustainability and personalised service. Destinations that combine modern infrastructure with authentic local experiences are gaining a competitive edge. At JECC and Novotel Jaipur Convention Centre, world-class convention facilities, premium hospitality and Jaipur’s rich cultural heritage come together to create events that are efficient, engaging and memorable.
Heritage meets celebrations
Destination weddings have emerged as a significant growth segment, with couples seeking personalised celebrations supported by flawless execution. At Novotel Jaipur Convention Centre and JECC, versatile venues, dedicated planning teams, curated culinary experiences and seamless operational capabilities enable grand weddings alongside large-scale corporate events. Jaipur’s heritage and vibrant culture elevate every celebration, while Accor’s global service standards ensure exceptional guest experiences, making the property a preferred destination for both destination weddings and MICE events.
Shuvendu Banerjee
Area General Manager – South West Asia, IHG Hotels & Resorts
Personalised MICE experiences
India’s MICE sector is witnessing remarkable growth, fuelled by robust economic expansion, world-class infrastructure and increasing demand for immersive, experience-led events. At Holiday Inn New Delhi Aerocity, versatile venues accommodate gatherings for 8 to 800 guests, supported by advanced audiovisual solutions, dedicated event planning and curated culinary experiences. Personalisation and sustainability continue to shape the sector, with customised event solutions, responsible sourcing and energy-efficient operations helping deliver seamless, impactful and memorable MICE experiences.
Versatility for every occasion
Destination weddings have become one of the fastest-growing hospitality segments, requiring hotels to cater equally well to celebrations and corporate events. At Holiday Inn New Delhi Aerocity, flexible venues, including the Crystal Grand Ballroom and multiple event spaces, seamlessly transform from conferences to weddings and social ceremonies. Curated culinary offerings, dedicated planning, warm hospitality and the hotel’s strategic Aerocity location ensure convenience for domestic and international guests, strengthening its position as a preferred destination for both luxury weddings and corporate MICE events.
Rajiv Kapoor
General Manager, Fairmont Mumbai
Scale meets sophistication
India’s MICE sector is witnessing unprecedented growth, fuelled by expanding global business, international conferences and increasing demand for experiential corporate gatherings. At Fairmont Mumbai, one of the city’s largest and most technologically advanced banqueting portfolios includes the Infinity Ballroom for over 2,000 guests and 11 meeting rooms at Grand Terminus. Its strategic location near Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport, state-of-the-art infrastructure and curated culinary programme combine to deliver seamless, large-scale events with exceptional guest experiences.
Luxury events under one roof
Fairmont Mumbai has designed its venues to host landmark weddings and world-class corporate events with equal ease. From grand celebrations in the Infinity Ballroom to elegant rooftop receptions at The Vantage and high-profile conventions at Grand Terminus, every event is supported by dedicated specialists, personalised planning and bespoke culinary experiences. Combined with its convenient airport location, flexibility, exceptional hospitality and world-class infrastructure, the hotel has established itself as a premier destination for both destination weddings and large-scale MICE events.
Randhir Gupta
Vice President – Commercial & Business Development, MAYFAIR Hotels & Resorts
Expanding convention capabilities
India’s MICE sector has strong growth potential, driven by expanding business travel, improved convention infrastructure, government initiatives and rising international events. Hotels are responding with flexible venues, advanced hybrid meeting technologies and sustainable practices. MAYFAIR has strengthened its portfolio with the 4-lakh sq. ft. convention facility and 260-room Mayfair Spring Valley Guwahati, while the upcoming Mayfair Sanctuary Bhubaneswar will feature 400 rooms, a 4,000-seater ballroom and 28 event spaces capable of hosting up to 10,000 guests.
Versatile venues for every event
MAYFAIR Hotels & Resorts is strengthening its destination wedding portfolio through versatile indoor and outdoor venues, bespoke décor, curated catering and dedicated wedding planning services. Personalised guest experiences, wellness activities and local cultural experiences complement every celebration, while flexible event spaces and advanced technology ensure seamless corporate meetings and conferences. By designing venues that effortlessly transition between weddings and business events, MAYFAIR continues to optimise occupancy, diversify revenue streams and deliver memorable experiences across every event.
Barun Gupta
COO, Indeva Hotels & Resorts
Technology-driven MICE growth
India’s MICE sector is witnessing one of its most exciting phases of growth, driven by strong economic expansion, rising corporate investments, improved convention infrastructure and government initiatives such as ‘Meet in India’. Greater Noida is rapidly emerging as a leading MICE destination, supported by excellent connectivity and the India Expo Centre & Mart. At Indeva Hotels & Resorts, the focus extends beyond accommodation to delivering technology-enabled, experience-driven events through ExpoInn Suites & Convention, The Plume Hotel and The Mor Stays, backed by personalised service and operational excellence.
Blending business with celebrations
Destination weddings have become one of hospitality’s fastest-growing segments, complementing corporate MICE business. At ExpoInn Suites & Convention, expansive banquet facilities, flexible event spaces, premium accommodation, curated culinary experiences and dedicated planning teams enable seamless execution of conferences and luxury weddings alike. Inspired by the ‘Wed in India’ vision, the hotel blends modern luxury with authentic Indian hospitality while balancing corporate events, weddings and social celebrations to maximise venue utilisation and deliver memorable guest experiences.
Dinesh Rai
General Manager, Crowne Plaza Kochi
Business meets bleisure
India’s MICE sector is experiencing strong growth, driven by increased corporate travel, improved infrastructure and rising demand for conferences, exhibitions and incentive travel. Organisers today seek flexibility, technology, seamless execution and destinations that enhance the overall event experience. At Crowne Plaza Kochi, 269 rooms, 14 banquet venues, a grand ballroom, modern audiovisual capabilities and an experienced events team ensure successful events, while its iconic backwater location offers the perfect blend of business and leisure, reflecting the growing demand for bleisure travel.
Backwater weddings with flexibility
Destination weddings have become a significant growth segment, complementing Crowne Plaza Kochi’s strong corporate MICE business. With 269 rooms, a Grand Ballroom, the 14,000 sq. ft. Backwater Pavilion and versatile indoor and outdoor venues, the hotel hosts celebrations of every scale. Families also have the flexibility to bring their own Maharaj to prepare authentic regional cuisine, while personalised service, modern event infrastructure and the scenic backwater setting create memorable weddings alongside seamless large-scale corporate events.
Rubin Cherian
General Manager, Novotel Hyderabad Convention Centre & HICC
Sustainable MICE leadership
India’s MICE industry is at a defining moment, driven by robust economic growth, global business confidence and rising demand for immersive, technology-enabled events. At Novotel Hyderabad Convention Centre & HICC, one of India’s largest integrated convention destinations, flexible event spaces, advanced hybrid-event technology and sustainability initiatives, including solar energy, atmospheric water generation and resource-efficient practices, combine with intuitive service to deliver seamless experiences for everything from board meetings to global conventions and exhibitions.
Integrated destination for events
Destination weddings have emerged as a strong strategic growth segment, complementing the property’s MICE business. HICC’s expansive pillar-less convention halls, 287 contemporary guest rooms, landscaped outdoor venues and bespoke culinary experiences enable celebrations of every scale. Supported by a dedicated events team delivering highly personalised planning and flawless execution, the property seamlessly balances large-format weddings and international corporate events while reflecting the warmth of its hospitality and world-class event expertise.
Davinder Juj
General Manager, Eros Hotel New Delhi
Flexible and Sustainable MICE
India’s MICE sector is experiencing strong growth, driven by economic expansion, improved infrastructure, government support and rising demand for in-person events. Hotels are responding by investing in hybrid event technology, flexible venues, sustainable practices and personalised experiences. Digital engagement tools, adaptable event spaces and locally inspired hospitality have become essential, enabling Eros Hotel New Delhi to deliver seamless, engaging and memorable meetings, conferences and large-scale events that meet evolving client expectations.
Personalised events for every occasion
Destination weddings have emerged as a key business segment, complementing the hotel’s MICE portfolio. Eros Hotel New Delhi offers versatile indoor and outdoor venues, supported by dedicated wedding planners and specialised MICE teams to ensure every event receives focused attention. Personalised culinary experiences, group-friendly amenities, cultural elements and advanced event technology enhance guest experiences, while flexible spaces, tailored services and warm hospitality enable the hotel to successfully host both destination weddings and corporate events with the highest standards of service.
Lakshmi Sridhar
General Manager, Novotel Visakhapatnam Varun Beach & The Bheemili Resort Managed by Accor
Experiential MICE on the rise
India’s MICE sector is entering an exciting phase of growth, supported by improved infrastructure, enhanced connectivity and increasing demand for business events across metro and emerging destinations. Organisations are looking beyond traditional meeting venues, prioritising destinations that deliver meaningful experiences alongside business objectives. Hotels are responding by investing in flexible event spaces, hybrid-event technology, sustainable operations, wellness-led offerings and personalised event planning, while the rise of bleisure travel is making experiential hospitality a key differentiator.
Beachfront destination for events
At Novotel Visakhapatnam Varun Beach, destination weddings complement a strong MICE business. The award-winning beachfront hotel offers versatile indoor and outdoor venues, 225 well-appointed rooms and the sea-facing V Convention Centre, enabling it to host everything from intimate celebrations to large-scale weddings and conferences. Bespoke culinary experiences, dedicated event specialists and personalised guest journeys ensure memorable occasions while maintaining the flexibility to seamlessly cater to both wedding celebrations and corporate events throughout the year.
Rajani Nair Deb
General Manager, DoubleTree by Hilton Agra
Flexible spaces for growing MICE
India’s MICE sector continues to grow with real momentum, with the market expected to reach USD 74.12 billion by 2031. Corporate clients account for nearly half the demand, while technology, pharma and financial firms continue to drive larger events. At DoubleTree by Hilton Agra, the Astor Ballroom is designed to adapt from a 50-guest boardroom to a 1,000-guest celebration, supported by dedicated planning and Hilton’s service standards to meet evolving business-event requirements.
Capitalising on wedding demand
Destination weddings have become a significant growth segment, with one in four Indian weddings now hosted as destination celebrations and nearly 90% taking place within India. Located just 2 km from the Taj Mahal, DoubleTree by Hilton Agra is well positioned to serve this demand. Its indoor and outdoor venues, thoughtful culinary offerings and dedicated catering and events team create memorable celebrations while seamlessly balancing destination weddings with corporate MICE business.
Kunal Shanker
General Manager, Novotel Mumbai Juhu Beach
Experience-led MICE evolution
The MICE segment continues to be a significant driver of business for the hospitality industry, with client expectations evolving beyond conventional banquet spaces. Today, organisers seek venues that seamlessly blend business with meaningful experiences through flexibility, integrated technology, personalised catering, sustainability and wellness-focused elements. Success lies not just in hosting an event, but in creating memorable experiences that deliver value for organisers, attendees and the hotel while strengthening overall business performance beyond room revenue.
Beachfront celebrations
Destination weddings have evolved into experience-led celebrations centred on creating memorable guest journeys. At Novotel Mumbai Juhu Beach, the beachfront location, poolside spaces and ocean-facing terraces provide distinctive settings for intimate ceremonies, sunset cocktails and grand receptions. Set against the backdrop of the Arabian Sea, these venues create celebrations that are deeply personal and memorable while enabling the hotel to seamlessly balance the needs of destination weddings and corporate MICE events.
Salil Fadnis
General Manager, Hotel Sahara Star, Mumbai
Technology-enabled MICE
India’s MICE sector is entering a high-growth phase, driven by stronger domestic business travel, global events and significant investments in convention infrastructure. Guests now expect immersive, technology-enabled experiences with flexible layouts, curated dining, sustainability initiatives and measurable event outcomes. At Hotel Sahara Star, large-format event spaces, a strategic airport location and an integrated hospitality ecosystem enable the hotel to deliver seamless, memorable MICE experiences that meet evolving business-event expectations.
Precision for every celebration
Destination weddings today demand the same precision as large corporate events, making operational expertise a key differentiator. Hotel Sahara Star has strengthened its offering through bespoke celebration planning, versatile venues, curated culinary experiences and personalised guest services. Its ability to manage multiple large-format events, complemented by the iconic tropical lagoon and convenient airport connectivity, allows the hotel to seamlessly cater to destination-style weddings and premium MICE events with equal excellence.
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