Udon Thani is positioning itself as a future regional hub for business events, thanks to significant infrastructure developments ahead of the Udon Thani International Horticultural Expo 2026. The expo, which will run across five months under the theme, Diversity of Life: Connecting People, Water & Plants for Sustainable Living, is set to attract millions of visitors.
At the 164.8-hectare expo site, a large exhibition area is being constructed. It consists of a main hall and convention centre. The site also features an Isan local life display zone with an Isan village and Isan cultural centre to showcase local edible plants.
Expansive garden areas are being developed, featuring a commemorative building, themed and agricultural gardens, an international garden, and a glasshouse with indoor displays.
In the 85-hectare eastern zone, a wetland conservation forest, restoration garden, and wetland learning centre focused on carbon offsetting will be established.
According to Sakda Katwkaew, deputy CEO of the Udon Thani Provincial Administrative Organization, the province is set to benefit from several of these structures well beyond the expo.
“The three main buildings are part of the legacy plan – the main hall will become a convention centre and the commemorative building will be transformed into the GMS Museum and Royal Museum. The Isan cultural centre and wetland learning centre will also remain, while the rest of the area will be transformed into public parking,” he said.
Complementing the expo’s development, Udon Thani has opened Thailand’s first MICE Electrician Testing Center at the Udonthani Vocational College. The centre recently launched the country’s inaugural MICE Electrician Certification Exam, marking a milestone for Thailand’s business events industry. This initiative is expected to boost the number of skilled, internationally certified Thai electricians, enhancing the country’s ability to attract more global events.
