The Mobile World Congress 2025 (MWC25) in Barcelona has wrapped up another transformative edition, bringing together 109,000 attendees from 205 countries and territories for a week of groundbreaking announcements, technological advancements, and visionary discussions on the future of connectivity. Hosted by the GSMA, MWC25 solidified its reputation as the world’s premier mobile and connectivity event, with AI-powered networks, smart mobility, and digital transformation dominating the agenda.
John Hoffman, CEO of GSMA Ltd., emphasized the event’s impact, stating: "MWC is where industries converge, and this year’s event highlighted just how fast technology is reshaping the world around us. From AI-powered networks to the future of smart mobility, the discussions in Barcelona this week will set the tone for the industry in the year ahead. What happens at MWC doesn’t stay at MWC—it sparks real change. I can’t wait to see where this momentum takes us next, especially as we gear up for MWC25 Shanghai in June."
MWC25 in Numbers: A Record-Breaking Event
- 109,000 attendees from 205 countries
- 2,900+ exhibitors, sponsors, and partners showcasing cutting-edge technology
- 1,200+ speakers and thought leaders, with 41% female representation
- 188 delegations from 148 countries at the GSMA Ministerial Programme, including 66 ministers and 111 regulatory heads
- 4YFN startup platform hosted 1,000+ startups, 380 speakers, and 900 investors, managing €60 billion in collective funds
- 56% of attendees from industries beyond the core mobile sector, highlighting cross-industry collaboration
- 21% C-suite executives and 50% director-level and above professionals in attendance
- 27% female attendees, marking progress toward industry diversity
- 2,900+ journalists and industry analysts covering the event globally
- 500,000+ unique views of keynote and live sessions via MWC Barcelona platforms and media partners
Additionally, Talent Arena, co-located at Fira Montjuïc and organized by Mobile World Capital Barcelona (MWCapital), welcomed over 20,000 attendees, with a balanced mix of senior professionals and young talent.
A Milestone Moment for GSMA Leadership
This year’s event marked the final MWC for Mats Granryd, Director General of GSMA, who reflected on the industry’s evolution: "I've attended every MWC since the early days, and as my last as Director General, I couldn’t be prouder of how this event has grown. The industry is entering a new era, and I am honored to have played a role in shaping its trajectory. Each MWC builds on the last, and this year was truly groundbreaking. As I pass the leadership to Vivek Badrinath, I am confident that GSMA is well-positioned to continue driving meaningful industry conversations and fostering public-private collaboration."
What’s Next? MWC25 Shanghai, MWC25 Doha, and More
MWC Barcelona 2025 kicks off a dynamic year of global GSMA events. The next major gathering, MWC25 Shanghai (June 18-20, 2025), will continue the innovation momentum, featuring the return of 4YFN and the debut of IOTE, a premier IoT technology exhibition.
Adding to the global expansion, GSMA announced the first-ever MWC25 Doha (November 25-26, 2025), a milestone event that will bring together industry leaders, policymakers, and innovators to advance digital transformation across the Middle East and beyond.
Vivek Badrinath, the incoming Director General, will deliver his inaugural address at M360 Eurasia in Tashkent, Uzbekistan (May 21-22, 2025), followed by M360 LATAM in Mexico City (May 28-29, 2025). These regional events will continue fostering discussions around next-generation connectivity, AI, and digital inclusion.
MWC25 Keynotes Available On-Demand
For those who missed the action, MWC25 Barcelona keynote sessions are available on-demand via the MWC Barcelona website, mobile app, and Mobile World Live. Press materials, B-roll, and event photography can be accessed through the MWC25 Barcelona Press Zone.
Looking Ahead to MWC26 Barcelona
The excitement doesn’t stop here—MWC Barcelona will return next year from March 2-5, 2026. As the mobile industry continues to evolve at an unprecedented pace, MWC will remain the ultimate platform for driving innovation, shaping policy, and forging global partnerships.
