Smart City Expo 2026 Concludes Successfully

the Smart City Expo World Congress drew nearly 30,000 participants from 140 countries. Under the theme “Urban Solutions, Real Impact”, the congress featured discussions on climate change response, urban sustainable development and urban mobility, presenting a range of smart tech solutions already in use across cities.

The Smart City Expo World Congress was held in Barcelona, Spain from November 3 to 5. Nearly 30,000 participants from 140 countries attended the event. Centered on the theme “Urban Solutions, Real Impact”, the congress focused on discussions over climate change response, urban sustainable development and urban mobility. It showcased a set of smart technological solutions already deployed in cities.

International exhibitors presented technologies focusing on energy, traffic management and accessibility."Three days ago, we set out to show that smart city initiatives are already making an impact. Having welcomed over 29,721 attendees and 1,276 exhibitors, and having brought together mayors, companies and experts who are delivering results all over the world, we can affirm that the message from cities has been clear: they are ready and willing to scale what works and we are ready to help them speed the process," said Ugo Valenti, Director of Smart City Expo World Congress.

French company Fonroche displayed stand-alone solar streetlights that do not require underground cabling, while Austrian company Kapsch presented a Barcelona-commissioned pilot project that uses artificial intelligence to manage traffic signals. 

An exhibit by University College London featured simulations showing how pedestrian crossings may appear to people with dementia-related visual impairments, highlighting the challenges they can face when navigating cities.

Major technology companies, including Nvidia, Microsoft and Dell, also took part. Discussions extended beyond individual technologies to digital tools for public services and urban planning, as well as housing access, energy management, emission reduction and social inclusion.

Furthermore, Chinese enterprises participated in the expo, showcasing advanced urban solutions and technologies.

Chinese company EHang showcased an electric aircraft designed to carry two people, which can take off and land vertically.

Nacho Rexach, EHang's chief commercial officer for Europe and Latin America, told Xinhua that the aircraft needs little infrastructure for takeoff and landing and could complement ground transport by creating what he called "a third layer of air transport" to help ease traffic congestion.

Beyond urban mobility, Chinese robotics company Aimoga displayed humanoid robots designed for reception duties, traffic management and hospital services. Catering equipment manufacturer Atosa demonstrated an automated kitchen system that prepared French fries for visitors.

China Mobile International Limited also highlighted digital connectivity. YinZefeng, senior business development manager for Iberia at the company, said 4G, 5G and Wi-Fi networks help connect devices and systems across urban digital ecosystems.

Cities Programme 

SCEWC hosted an agenda of activities under the name Cities Programme, jointly organized with the Barcelona City Council, focused on the exchange of strategies and knowledge among municipal leaders. The programme featured the Housing Mayors Meeting and the City Peers meetings, among other activities.

This article is compiled from reports by Xinhua News and Fira de Barcelona.