The fully rebuilt Queen Sirikit National Convention Center offers more than just events.

This article was originally found on M&C/Asia.

A massive redevelopment project in the heart of Bangkok is turning the city centre’s premier events venue into a destination for a new generation of visitors. The landmark Queen Sirikit National Convention Center (QSNCC), a fixture in the Thai capital for the last three decades, has been completely reimagined to reach beyond its traditional role as host for trade shows, professional meetings and consumer events.

The goal is to make the QSNCC a modern venue for MICE, but also for other types of events like concerts. With new spaces for retail and leisure activities, even visitors who are not attending scheduled events will find reasons to spend time at QSNCC.

QSNCC plans to build on its strengths and its experience to give MICE attendees a faultless experience. “This project will turn the Queen Sirikit National Convention Center into the ultimate world-class events platform for all,” enthuses Sakchai Pattarapreechakul, President of N.C.C. Management & Development Co., Ltd. “We have a proven track record as the venue of choice for high-quality events in the middle of Bangkok. The expansion of QSNCC will continue to provide excellent service for Thai and international visitors while opening the site to a range of new users.”

An Ambitious Project

The previous building was closed in 2019. The newly rebuilt QSNCC that replaces the earlier structure will have a total surface area of over 280,000 square metres, five times its previous size or the equivalent of over 50 football pitches.

On schedule to be opened in September 2022, QSNCC will have 78,500 square metres of event space with a capacity of over 100,000 visitors daily. That space includes two exhibition halls that total 45,000 square metres, two conference halls of nearly 10,000 square metres and an additional 50 flexible meeting rooms, by far central Bangkok’s largest MICE facility.

Modern Design Enhances User Experience

While the exhibition spaces themselves are impressive, the new features of QSNCC are what set it apart.

Organisers of all sorts of events can expect to find innovative solutions that suit their requirements. QSNCC’s flexible infrastructure can be fully personalised, meaning that entertainment, fashion shows or sports competitions will find a home alongside trade shows, congresses and conventions.

The safety and security of visitors have also been a priority in the new design of the QSNCC. From food security to digital security, the centre meets the highest international standards. Increased concern for personal health and hygiene have informed many of the decisions that have been made about the systems and the infrastructure of the new QSNCC.

The current site is strategically connected to Bangkok’s business areas and other popular destinations. The new facility includes an expanded underground car park with spaces for 2700 cars and is also directly connected to the MRT underground train system, which in turn connects to the BTS Skytrain and Airport Rail Link.

Sustainability and Technology to Modernise QSNCC

These days, sustainability is at the top of the minds of many users. The QSNCC has demonstrated its commitment to the environment by becoming the first LEED silver certified convention centre in Thailand. The construction and the operation of the new QSNCC take into account many key points like energy, water, waste and air quality, all of which have been thought out to minimise impact on the environment. Its location adjacent to the Benjakitti Forest Park will also attract visitors looking for a breath of fresh air in one of Bangkok’s most important green spaces.

Modernisation also means making hi-tech solutions available throughout the venue. From 6G connectivity and fibre optics to facilities for hybrid meetings that are in ever-increasing demand, a dedicated app, digital signage and behind-the-scenes venue management, the state of the art technology found throughout the centre makes the user experience seamless.

A Bright Future

The QSNCC is clearly positioning itself to fill a gap in downtown Bangkok by creating a contemporary events venue that meets all the needs of organisers and visitors from around Thailand and around the world. At the same time an entirely new offer in terms of shopping, entertainment, food and culture responds to the expectation of today’s demanding public.

“We will be a destination for all types of events, not just MICE,” says Mr. Pattarapreechakul. “The new QSNCC will go beyond the confines of a traditional events venue, creating a destination with a new energy right in the heart of the city.”

The approach is already bearing its fruit. QSNCC already has confirmed booking for the end of 2022 for a number of high-profile shows. Food Ingredient Asia, Food and Hotel Thailand, ASEAN Sustainable Energy, Pump and Valves Asia, Thai Water Expo, and Tissue and Paper Bangkok have already announced 2022 events at QSNCC, and many others will follow suit.

Meanwhile tenants for the commercial spaces are keen to sign up before the relaunch of the venue in September 2022, providing a mix of international and local brands that will keep visitors of all ages coming back for more.

“The new site respects the legacy of the original QSNCC,” states Mr. Pattarapreechakul. “But the new QSNCC paves the way for a bright future.”