Rome authorities said they expect SiGMA World to generate major economic activity across hospitality, restaurants, transport, and other local businesses when the international gaming event returns to the Italian capital from 2 to 5 November 2026.
More than 30,000 international delegates are expected to attend the event at Fiera di Roma, following its first edition in the city in 2025, which generated nearly €100 million (US$112 million), according to Mariano Angelucci, President of the Permanent Capitoline Commission for Tourism, Fashion and International Relations of Roma Capitale and Metropolitan Councillor.
Speaking during Forbes Italia & SiGMA Talks “Vision 2030”, Angelucci said major international events create business opportunities beyond the gaming industry and form part of the city’s tourism and economic development strategy. “These events are essential. We thank SiGMA for choosing our city,” Angelucci said.
Rome is working to attract more international events during the quieter months to reduce its reliance on peak-season tourism. The city sees business tourism as a way to bring visitors throughout the year and generate spending during periods when tourist activity is traditionally lower.
Hotels, restaurants, transport operators, and companies involved in event organisation could all see increased demand from visiting delegates. The resulting demand extends beyond the exhibition venue, creating opportunities for businesses serving visitors in other parts of Rome.
The event also aligns with Rome’s efforts to expand its Meetings, Incentives, Conferences and Exhibitions (MICE) sector. This market covers corporate meetings, conferences, incentive travel and trade exhibitions, which the city is targeting to broaden its tourism offering and attract international visitors.
Angelucci said the strategy aligns with the objectives of the administration led by Rome Mayor Roberto Gualtieri, which prioritises tourism that generates economic value and employment for local businesses.
“The objective we set ourselves as an administration over these five years, under Mayor Gualtieri, was to develop quality tourism that brings added value to Rome and our city’s businesses in terms of growth and jobs,” he said.
Transport and logistics are also key considerations for the event, as Fiera di Roma is located outside the capital’s central areas. Angelucci said the city would work to improve public transport and coordinate mobility arrangements to support delegates travelling to the venue.
The aim is to make it easier for people to attend the event while ensuring that the economic benefits extend to other parts of the city as well.
“We are working to improve public transport and will provide SiGMA with full logistical support in terms of mobility,” he said.
SiGMA World’s return forms part of Rome’s broader development strategy towards 2030, with the city seeking to convert international visitor numbers into economic benefits for businesses across its tourism and service sectors.
