Published on
February 12, 2026
In April 2026, Galway, Ireland, will witness a significant development in its MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences and Exhibitions) sector with the official opening of Dexcom Stadium. This state-of-the-art facility, home to Connacht Rugby, will provide a versatile and modern venue that promises to reshape the region’s event-hosting landscape. Positioned as a top-tier hospitality and conference venue, Dexcom Stadium is set to cater to the growing demands of the MICE industry in Ireland and beyond.
The New Hub for MICE Industry in Ireland
Dexcom Stadium, located in the heart of Galway, will soon become a cornerstone of the MICE industry in Ireland. The stadium’s redevelopment places a heavy emphasis on providing world-class facilities for business events, conferences and exhibitions. With a total capacity of 5,000 guests across 17 distinct spaces, it will offer exceptional flexibility for a range of events, from intimate board meetings to large gala dinners and industry conferences.
The facility will boast cutting-edge AV technology, panoramic views and tailored catering options designed by master chefs to ensure an unparalleled hospitality experience. The inclusion of high-quality hospitality services reflects the growing demand for sophisticated venues that cater to both corporate and leisure needs. Dexcom Stadium’s integration into the MICE market will be vital for Galway, making it a key player in the country’s event and conference sectors.
A Premium Venue for MICE Events
The centerpiece of Dexcom Stadium’s redevelopment is the Clan Stand, which will serve as the ideal location for spectators and guests on game days. However, the venue’s capabilities extend far beyond sports. From April 2026, Dexcom Stadium will be available for non-matchday events, including conferences, meetings and exhibitions. The stadium’s facilities will be available for hire, making it one of the largest and most adaptable venues in the region. Whether hosting a small corporate seminar for 10 people or a large-scale conference for 500 attendees, the venue offers a variety of options for event organizers.
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In addition to offering flexible event spaces, Dexcom Stadium will also focus on attracting high-value, midweek and offseason events. By doing so, it will contribute to Ireland’s Business Events 2030 strategy, which aims to increase the economic impact of business tourism by focusing on value-over-volume growth. This strategy not only supports local businesses and suppliers but also enhances Ireland’s position as a prime destination for business events.
Hosting Major Events in Galway
Since its opening, Dexcom Stadium has already secured a robust calendar of events, with several high-profile gatherings set to take place in 2026. Notable among them is the Portershed Spark innovation conference in April 2026, marking Portershed’s 10-year milestone. Another major event on the horizon is EDGE26, Ireland’s Creative Economy Summit, which will be hosted at Dexcom Stadium in May 2026. These events exemplify the stadium’s capacity to host influential conferences that foster innovation and creativity.
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Looking further ahead, Galway will also welcome the European Big Data Value Forum (EBDVF 2026) in the autumn. This event, which focuses on data and AI, will bring together experts and professionals from across Europe. EBDVF 2026 is a key example of the high-profile events that Dexcom Stadium will attract, further solidifying Galway’s place as a hub for international conferences and meetings.
Impact on Ireland’s Hospitality and MICE Industry
The opening of Dexcom Stadium represents a significant leap forward for the hospitality and MICE industry in Ireland. Business events contribute significantly to Ireland’s economy, generating over €1 billion annually and supporting thousands of jobs across the country. By attracting top-tier business events, Dexcom Stadium will play an integral role in supporting the wider innovation ecosystem and benefiting local suppliers. Its arrival aligns perfectly with Ireland’s broader strategy to boost high-value tourism in the MICE sector.
As Galway’s newest and most versatile venue, Dexcom Stadium is poised to become a game-changer for the hospitality and conference industry, offering state-of-the-art facilities, top-tier services and a premium setting for events. The stadium’s commitment to supporting both large and small-scale business events will elevate Galway’s status as a leading destination for the MICE industry in Ireland.
By establishing Dexcom Stadium as a premium hospitality and conference venue, Ireland will continue to strengthen its position in the global MICE market, providing both local and international event organizers with an outstanding location for their business needs. With its focus on innovation, flexibility and hospitality, Dexcom Stadium is set to play a vital role in the future of Ireland’s MICE sector.
Image- dexcomstadium.events
