Envision standing before a structure that has boosted South Africa’s GDP. This is the Cape Town International Convention Centre. It is also known as the CTICC. This convention centre opened its doors in June 2003. It stands as a partnership between the City of Cape Town and the Western Cape government.
The CTICC occupies a sizable 6.1 hectares on the city’s Foreshore. It is conveniently located near the Victoria & Alfred Waterfront. Major hotels and the city centre are also nearby. The Westin Grand Hotel shares the CTICC premises.
Inside, the Cape Town International Convention Centre boasts approximately 11200 square meters of exhibition space. This area can transform into conference halls or banquet venues. A grand ballroom exists too. Soundproof partitions offer flexibility. Catering services are available on-site. The centre includes two auditoriums. One seats up to 1500 people. The other accommodates 620.
The Cape Town International Convention Centre played host to the Final Draw of the 2010 FIFA World Cup South Africa in December 2009. Notable attendees included Nobel Peace Prize winners F.W. De Klerk and Desmond Tutu. Jacob Zuma, President of South Africa, and Sepp Blatter, President of FIFA, opened the event.
In 2013, the Cape Town International Convention Centre hosted 537 events. This was an increase from 514 in 2012. By 2021, estimates showed the CTICC contributed significantly to the country’s economy. It added R53.2 billion to the GDP. It also gave R45.2 billion to the Western Cape’s economy over twenty years.
In 2023, the CTICC hosted the Netball World Cup. The Cape Town International Convention Centre also hosted the first sitting of the seventh parliament. They elected the Speaker of the National Assembly and the President.
Due to its success, the CTICC underwent expansion in 2010. A second expansion started in February 2015. It was completed in 2017. This added 10000 square meters of floor space.
Beyond conferences, the Cape Town International Convention Centre serves as a film location. Its architecture and city views provide a versatile backdrop. It has stood in for airports and train stations. It has also been offices and hotels.
Films and TV series such as “The Kissing Booth” and “Maze Runner” have filmed scenes here. Commercials for Volvo and BMW have also been shot at the CTICC.
The pandemic affected film bookings. Travel restrictions caused a decline in international productions. National restrictions on public gatherings impacted local film industry bookings. The CTICC adapted. It incorporated temperature reading devices and virtual tour software.
Even with challenges, the Cape Town International Convention Centre remains optimistic. It aims to be a top location for filming flexibility. It strives to be one of Cape Town’s most versatile locations. The CTICC continues to adapt. It offers virtual site inspections. It implements health and safety protocols. It ensures it remains a premier venue. The Cape Town International Convention Centre stands as a testament to innovation. It also shows economic impact and adaptability.