The Adani Group is set to revolutionize Mumbai’s convention infrastructure with a $2 billion investment in an International Convention Centre (ICC) near the international airport it operates. As per reports, approved by the Mumbai Metropolitan Region Development Authority (MMRDA), the project’s detailed blueprint is expected to be finalized within two months.
Competing with Ambani’s Jio World Centre
The ICC will directly challenge Reliance Industries’ Jio World Convention Centre in Bandra Kurla Complex (BKC). Located in Vile Parle, Adani’s facility enjoys strategic proximity to the international airport, ensuring accessibility and global visibility. With a proposed size of 1.5 million square feet, it will surpass Jio World’s 1 million square feet, solidifying its position as Mumbai’s largest convention hub.
The new ICC will host up to 20,000 people, featuring 1.2 million square feet of indoor space and 0.3 million square feet for parking and ancillary services. A five-star hotel with 275 rooms will add luxury to the venue, creating a comprehensive destination for business and leisure.
Adani’s Strategy for Market Dominance
Adani Airport Holdings Ltd, rather than Adani Realty, will own and manage the ICC. This marks a unique approach, as most of Adani’s real estate ventures are managed by its realty arm. The facility is expected to elevate Mumbai’s status as a global business hub and strengthen the group’s foothold in the Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions (MICE) sector.
The Importance of Convention Centres
Convention centres play a pivotal role in connecting local businesses with international markets. They foster trade, promote exports, and contribute significantly to employment generation. India’s Yashobhoomi in Delhi, for instance, spans 3.2 million square feet and was designed to compete with global giants like Shanghai and Hong Kong. According to Rajesh Kumar Singh, chairman of India International Convention & Exhibition Centre Ltd, Yashobhoomi aims to enhance India’s position in the Asian MICE market and create over 500,000 jobs.
Global Competition
Adani’s ICC will compete with established Asian giants like Shanghai’s 15.8 million-square-foot NECC and Hong Kong’s 3.2 million-square-foot Convention and Exhibition Centre. These venues have set benchmarks in integrating business, hospitality, and leisure, and Adani’s ICC seeks to bring Mumbai to the forefront of this competition.
