First Visit to Mobile World Congress
Are you new to the Mobile World Congress?
Do you wonder what to expect, or don't understand some of our terminology? We suggest you take the MWC Virtual Tour for a good overview of the event. However, we know you may still have some questions, so we've put this page together especially for you, answering some of the most common queries below:
Planning Your Trip: Which Pass to Purchase
Which type of pass should I buy?
What is the "Platinum Experience"?
What's the "VIP Networking Lounge"?
Can I purchase a one-day access pass to the VIP Networking Lounge?
What does it cost to upgrade my pass?
Can I pay via cash or cheque?
When does registration open?
How Do I Obtain a Member Discount?
Planning Your Trip: Accommodation & Travel
Where should I stay during the GSMA Mobile World Congress?
Am I required to book my hotel stay through your official accommodation agency?
When should I plan to arrive for Mobile World Congress?
How do I get to the venue, Fira Barcelona?
Preparing for the GSMA Mobile World Congress
What can I expect to see and do at Mobile World Congress?
What should I bring with me?
What is the dress code?
I only speak _______. How will I manage?
What is the weather like?
Should I convert my native currency to Euro? Where do I get Euros?
Experiencing the GSMA Mobile World Congress
How do I get to the event venue, Fira Barcelona?
What's the layout of the venue?
How do I find a specific exhibitor?
Are meals included in my pass? Where do I eat?
Can I hold a meeting on site?
How can I connect with other attendees?
Communications
What do you mean by...? (MWC Lingo)
How do I stay in touch with what's going on during the show?
Planning Your Trip: Which Pass to Purchase
Which type of pass should I buy?
There are four different types of passes from which to choose, based on the kind of experience you wish to have at Mobile World Congress.
The Exhibition Visitor Pass is our most basic pass, perfect for those who are interested in combing through the exhibition halls and seeing the latest and greatest developments. This pass provides access to the exhibition, App Planet and the GSMA Seminars, and costs €599.
The Silver Pass goes a step further, including all of the components of the Exhibition Visitor Pass, as well access to all four days of the Thought Leadership Conference and post-event access to the presentations. This pass is good for those who are looking to check out the event for the first time and share their new knowledge with colleagues back home. The Silver Pass costs €2,099.
The Gold Pass is by far the best value at Mobile World Congress. The Gold Pass includes all of the components of the Silver Pass, as well as:
- Access to the VIP Networking Lounge - a great place to relax and get off your feet while taking advantage of free wi-fi, beverages, workstations and business services, not to mention inexpensive short-use meeting space
- Congress Lunch - Save up to €40 per day on your expense account with this provided lunch option in the centre of the action
- The Global Mobile Awards Presentation - be a part of the excitement at Tuesday afternoon's awards presentation
- Entrance in the Early Bird Prestigious Suite Sweepstakes - those who purchase a Gold Pass (or upgrade to a Gold Pass) prior to 9 January, 2010 are eligible to win a complimentary four-night stay in a suite at the Hotel Arts, one of Barcelona's most exquisite hotels.
The Gold Pass is available for €2,499, more than €1,000 less than last year's Gold Pass!
The Platinum Pass provides an exclusive experience. In addition to the components in the Gold Pass, Platinum Pass holders receive complimentary access to the Congress Party and Awards Celebration, as well as the "Platinum Experience." Platinum Passes are available for €4,999.
What is the "Platinum Experience"?
Part of the Platinum Pass, the Platinum Experience provides exclusive networking opportunities and onsite treatment designed for our most distinguished guests.
Platinum Experience networking opportunities include:
- An exclusive networking opportunity on Monday, 15 February with the following GSMA figures:
- Rob Conway, Chief Executive Officer of the GSMA
- Alexander Izosimov, Chairman of the GSMA Board
- Craig Ehrlich, Chairman Emeritus of the GSMA Board (TBC)
- members of the GSMC, Ltd. Board of Directors
- Following the above-mentioned cocktail event, all Platinum Pass holders will enjoy an exquisite networking dinner at one of Barcelona's best restaurants - a great opportunity to meet and network with industry leaders
- Prior to Tuesday evening's Congress Party & Awards Celebration at the National Palace in Montjuic, Platinum Passholders will join the GSMA Board and the Global Mobile Awards winners at a VIP Cocktail Reception
Platinum Experience hospitality and onsite services include:
- We're providing reserved seating at all keynote sessions for Platinum Pass holders, which is a great time saver and puts you at the front of the action
- Complimentary meeting rooms within the VIP Networking Lounge
- Share your VIP Networking Lounge privileges with one friend or colleague, regardless of their pass type
- Bypass registration queues and receive fast, exemplary service at the VIP registration desk
- Special welcome by hotel staff and a welcome gift at hotel upon arrival (available when accommodations booked through our official provider, Barcelona Business Pass)
- Distinguished service and recognition of your Platinum status via a unique pass
What's the "VIP Networking Lounge"?
The best way to think of it is like an airport lounge, where VIP travellers can escape the noise and bustle of a busy airport. It's the ideal place to take a break, enjoy a cup of tea or coffee and read the latest edition of the Show Daily. Take a seat in one of the casual seating groups and chat with colleagues over a glass of wine while checking your email via complimentary wireless access. Do you need to print out a document from the home office, or get copies of a presentation for an upcoming meeting? If so, sit down at one of the computer workstations or take advantage of provided business services.
One of the best features about the VIP Networking Lounge is the addition of small, nicely appointed meeting rooms. The rooms may be booked beginning Monday, 15 February, on a first-come, first-served basis. Rooms may be booked for up to two hours at time. Use of these rooms is complimentary for Platinum Pass holders and rentable for €50/hr for Gold Pass holders.
The VIP Networking Lounge is open for use Monday through Thursday during exhibition hours.
Can I purchase a one-day access pass to the VIP Networking Lounge?
In order to effectively serve our Platinum Pass and Gold Pass holders, access to the VIP Networking Lounge is restricted and cannot be purchased individually. Platinum Pass holders may bring a single guest into the VIP Networking Lounge, regardless of their pass type.
What does it cost to upgrade my pass?
Perhaps you've purchased a Silver Pass, and decide you want to upgrade to a Gold Pass to take advantage of the components included in the Gold Pass, or you have an Exhibition Visitor Pass and you now want to attend the Thought Leadership Conference. No problem!
In addition to simplifying our pass structure, we've also simplified upgrades for 2010. You are welcome to upgrade your pass at any time before the show or onsite without penalty - all you'll pay is the difference between the listed prices of the passes. For example, upgrading an Exhibition Visitor Pass to a Gold Pass would cost €1,900 (€2,499 - €599). And don't forget you can upgrade any type of pass, whether the pass was purchased or given to you by an exhibitor.
Can I pay via cash or cheque?
At this time we can accept payment for your registration via credit card (Visa, Mastercard, American Express, Diners Club or JEC) or via bank draft / wire transfer. Unlike previous events, cheques will not be accepted as a form of payment. Cash is also not accepted.
When does online registration open?
Registration for Mobile World Congress is now open. Passes may be purchased online or through our Registration Call Centre. Click here to get your pass today!
How Do I Obtain a Member Discount?
GSMA Members and Mobile Innovation Market Members (as of 31 December 2009) are eligible to receive a 30% discount on all passes for Mobile World Congress. When registering, simply enter your GSMA 'Organisation ID' and the discounts will automatically be applied. Your Organisation ID is available on
Planning Your Trip: Accommodation & Travel
Where should I stay during the GSMA Mobile World Congress?
There are many wonderful hotels in Barcelona, but with 50,000 people attending Mobile World Congress, finding a room can be challenging. That's why we recommend you book your hotel stay through Barcelona Business Pass (link to the accommodation page), our official accommodation agency.
Am I required to book my hotel stay through your official accommodation agency?
Of course you're allowed to book rooms through any service or provider you prefer, however, you do so at your own risk and we cannot guarantee the quality of service you will experience. By using the official accommodation agency, Barcelona Business Pass (BBP), you are assured of working with a reputable company and have local assistance should you experience any difficulties or problems during your stay.
Because of the number of rooms BBP secures for Mobile World Congress attendees, they're able to secure great discounts not available anywhere else. In fact, they've managed to negotiate rates up to 50% off last year's rates at many of the properties around town, with an average price reduction of 10%. These discounted rates are only available through BBP, and are another reason to book your accommodation through the official provider.
Please note: past attendees have received e-mail offers for hotel rooms from non-official agencies and then found themselves without accommodation upon arrival. If you choose to respond to such offers, please exercise caution and carefully read the cancellation policy, if any.
When should I plan to arrive for Mobile World Congress?
The GSMA Mobile World Congress begins Monday morning, 15 February, with conference sessions and the opening of the exhibition halls and hospitality suites. Attendees wanting to maximise their time at the show and avoid badge collection queues on Monday should arrive on Sunday, 14 February, or even Saturday, 13 February. Collecting your badge on Saturday or Sunday definitely helps to speed along your entry into the show.
Arriving at Mobile World Congress
How do I get to the venue, Fira Barcelona?
Fira Barcelona is located in the southwest part of the city, the Sants-Montjuic district. The airport is located a mere 20 minutes away, and there is one bus line and two Metro lines that can deliver you right to the venue. In addition, we have ample room for taxi pickup and drop-offs, and we offer shuttle services from select hotels in town. Barcelona is also accessible by train and boat.
In short, there are many ways to get to the venue - it all depends on where you're staying! View our transportation pages for the most up-to-date information available.
What can I expect to see and do at Mobile World Congress?
This year we’ve created an interactive virtual tour so you can experience what it’s like to be at the Congress before you arrive. To take this virtual experience tour, click here.
What should I bring with me?
While we can't recommend a specific packing list, there are a few things no one should be without at Congress.
For speedy collection of your badge, bring the official registration confirmation containing a barcode. (Having the confirmation with a barcode allows you to skip registration altogether and "Fast Track" your way into the venue.) If you don't have the registration with a barcode, having your confirmation number with you will shorten retrieval of your registration information. (Please note all badges must be picked up on site; no badges are mailed before you arrive.)
You should also bring photo identification with you. It's required to show your badge and photo ID to our security personnel at the venue's access points, and attendees are subject to random ID checks throughout the event. Acceptable forms of photo identification are a national ID card, your passport or a driving license with picture.
Finally you'll need to bring a business card to retrieve your badge. Speaking of business cards, bring a good supply of them with you. And by 'good supply' we mean a GOOD supply - we've yet to hear of anyone complain that they brought too many cards! With 50,000 attendees, chances are good you'll find many people with whom you wish to share them.
What is the dress code?
The GSMA Mobile World Congress is many things - a conference, an exhibition and trade show - but above all it's a place to do business, and business attire is what you will see most often. Suits and ties are the norm for men, and women typically wear jackets with skirts or trousers. Of course, with more than 180 countries represented on site, you'll likely see other definitions of business attire as well.
No matter what you choose to wear, we definitely recommend wearing comfortable shoes. It may be difficult to understand how large the venue is since you're new to the event. Between the eight exhibition halls and the outdoor space, Fira Barcelona covers 165,000 sq metres, or 540,000 sq feet of space. You're not likely to walk all of it, but comfortable shoes will surely improve the distance you actually cover. Trust us - your feet will thank you.
I only speak _______. How will I manage?
Catalan is the official language in Barcelona, but Spanish and English are also widely spoken. Of course, many hospitality workers in tourist areas and restaurants speak additional languages as well. As an international city and an international event, both the city and the GSMA include symbols on signage to improve communication. If you're concerned about this, you may wish to obtain a Spanish or English dictionary before you leave your home country.
All Mobile World Congress sessions and communications are all conducted in English. Translation services are not included.
What is the weather like?
Barcelona's average temperature in February is 13 degrees Centigrade, or 55 degrees Fahrenheit. Winters are usually very mild given the city's proximity to the Mediterranean. We've been very fortunate in recent years to have mild, dry weather during Mobile World Congress.
Should I convert my native currency to Euro? Where do I get Euros?
All transactions in the city and at Mobile World Congress will be transacted in Euros, so you will definitely need to have Euro currency in your pocket. You may wish to change money before you arrive in Barcelona via your home financial institution. Don't worry that you may run out - there are many ATMs around the city and even within Fira Barcelona. There are currency conversion outlets at most international airports as well as the Barcelona Airport.
Experiencing the GSMA Mobile World Congress
How do I get to the event venue, Fira Barcelona?
Fira Barcelona is located in the southwest part of Barcelona in the Sants-Montjuic district. The airport is located a mere 20 minutes away, and there are two Metro lines and one bus line that can deliver you right to the venue. In addition, there are multiple taxi pickup and drop-off areas located around the venue, and we offer shuttle services from select hotels in town.
In short, there are many ways to get to the venue - it all depends on where you're staying! View our transportation pages for the most up-to-date information available.
What's the layout of the venue?
If you were to stand in Plaza Espanya facing the National Palace of Montjuic, the Halls are laid out in order going clockwise, beginning with Hall 1 on your left side and leading to Hall 8 on your right side. However, we reference a few locations that aren't inside one of the Halls that you might be curious as to their location.
- "The Courtyard" is the area bordered by Halls 1, 2 and 5
- "The Avenue" is the closed-off street that runs down the middle of the venue
- "The Upper Village" is the portion of the venue across Ruis i Taulet street, and contains Halls 6 and 7, as well as the beautiful Magic Fountain
How do I find a specific exhibitor?
The first step is to find the exhibitor's stand number, which can be found here On site it can be found via the downloadable Mobile Guide or in the official Exhibition Catalogue.
The Exhibition Catalogue is available at the Registration and information desks in each Hall and provides the most comprehensive look at the seven exhibition halls. This catalogue contains an index of all exhibitors, profiles and contact details, and hall maps. Speaking of maps, you should also pick up a folding "Village Map" to tuck in your pocket for easy reference.
Stand numbers look something like this: 1E02.
- The first number designates the Hall: in this case, Hall 1.
- The second character tells us that the stand is located on Row "E". In the Halls, overhead signs will tell you which row is which.
- The final characters “02” tell you where on the row to find that specific stand.
If for some reason the stand you’re looking for doesn’t fit that pattern, then look for the “You Are Here” maps in each hall, or ask at the information desk near the entrance of the hall.
Are meals included in my pass? Where do I eat?
Many hotels throughout the city offer a breakfast option when booking your room. If your hotel doesn't offer morning food service, there are many wonderful coffee shops and restaurants both inside and outside the venue where you can find something to eat.
Both the Platinum Pass and the Gold Pass include access to the Congress Lunch, a seated meal served in Hall 5, right in the middle of the action. Just walk in, scan your badge, and select a meal - it's quite simple and doesn't require that you carry cash.
If you select a Silver Pass or Exhibition Visitor Pass, then meals are not included. However, there are more than 30 food and beverage outlets set up around Fira Barcelona, including several full-scale restaurants for sit-down meals. From sandwiches to paella to sushi, you'll find food options suitable for most diets. You won't go hungry! On-site food outlets accept cash and credit cards.
You're on your own in the evenings, and the city's many wonderful restaurants await. But you're still in luck - we've set up a restaurant booking area in Hall 5 to help you secure the best tables around town.
Can I hold a meeting on site?
One of the main reasons people come to Mobile World Congress is to network and hold meetings. While many of these meetings are set up before arrival, ad hoc meetings happen all of the time. With 50,000 industry professionals in a confined area, you'll find many people with whom you wish to talk!
If you're holding many meetings on site, you might consider renting a hospitality suite. These are private, enclosed spaces reserved just for you. You can customize your space with company materials and refreshments, and hold your meetings in style. To learn more about hospitality spaces, submit an enquiry using this form .
For more informal meetings, there are many casual places to meet at the Fira Barcelona venue - you'll see people sharing a cup of coffee at one of the restaurants on the Courtyard, sitting by the fountain in the Upper Village, or soaking up the sun in the grass.
Finally, there is limited hourly meeting space available for rent through the onsite Business Centre. This space must be rented on site (no pre-booking, unfortunately) and is first-come, first-served. More details will be available about rented meeting space soon.
How can I connect with other attendees?
We’ve recently launched a social networking portal, My MWC, to help our attendees connect with one another before the event, set up meetings and plan your time at the show, and stay in touch after the event has concluded. You must be a registered attendee of MWC in order to participate, so register soon so you can participate!
In addition, why not consider joining one of the social networking sites for Mobile World Congress and the GSMA? We can currently be found on Facebook, LinkedIn , and Twitter.
Communications
What do you mean by...? (MWC Lingo)
We know that attending an event in a foreign country with 50,000 other people can be daunting, so we'll help out by explaining some of the terminology we use in reference to Mobile World Congress. You might come across these terms while looking through our website, printed materials an venue maps.
| Our Term | The Definition or Description |
| Access Point | The location where attendees show your Congress badge and ID to enter the Fira venue |
| Fira Barcelona | The venue for Mobile World Congress 2010, often shortened to "Fira." |
| Hospitality Suite | Quite simply, a meeting room rented by a specific group to hold private meetings in during Congress. Hospitality Suites are located in Halls 3, 4, 6, 7 and 8. |
| Media Centre | This is a press-only area for the journalists reporting on Mobile World Congress. |
| Metro | The official name for the underground transportation system in Barcelona, which is how many attendees arrive at the Fira Barcelona venue. |
| National Palace in Montjuic | This is the beautiful palace at the top of the hill visible from the Fira Barcelona venue. It's also sometimes called "The National Palace." |
| Plaza Espanya | Plaza Espanya, or Plaça d'Espanya, is the public square at the foot of Fira Barcelona. Two major throughways, Gran Via de les Corts Catalanes and Avinguda del Parallel intersect here, and underneath the square is a large Metro station serving the city. |
| Taxi Rank | Official drop-off and pick-up locations just outside the venue, on either end of The Avenue. |
| The Avenue | Our term for Avinguda de la Reina Maria Cristina, the closed-off street that runs between Hall 5 and Hall 8 |
| The Courtyard | How we refer to the enclosed area bordered by Halls 1, 2 and 5, which features several large restaurants and outside seating. |
| Upper Village | Our term for the portion of the venue across and above Ruis I Taulet, near the Fountain, including Halls 6 and 7. |
How do I stay in touch with what's going on during the show?
The best way to stay in touch is via the Show Daily, the official daily newspaper of the show. The Show Daily is printed every night and available at the entrance gates to Fira Barcelona, and covers the news and breaking events of the day. This is a great way to find out what news is coming out of the show, or get a recap from conference sessions you may have missed. The Show Daily includes exhibition maps, and typically includes schedule updates.
- Platinum Event Sponsor
- Platinum Media Partners
Copyright ©2010 GSM Association. GSM and the GSM logo are registered and owned by the GSM Association.
