MEDICA Trade Fair for Medical Technology & Healthcare 2026

Notable exhibitors

Companies exhibiting at MEDICA Trade Fair for Medical Technology & Healthcare 2026 include .lumen – Empowering the Blind, 77 Elektronika Kft., @GP, A UNO TEC SRL and A ZURE BIOTHECH Inc.

.lumen – Empowering the Blind
77 Elektronika Kft.
@GP
A UNO TEC SRL
A ZURE BIOTHECH Inc.

Event overview

Overview

MEDICA 2026, organised by Messe Düsseldorf GmbH, is the central global platform for the healthcare industry. The event runs from 16 to 19 November 2026 at Messe Düsseldorf under the motto 'Meet Health. Future. People.'

The 2026 edition marks a systematic development with a completely revised thematic structure, redesigned exhibition areas, innovative programme formats, and expanded networking opportunities (https://www. medica. de/). The new structure comprises five main exhibition areas: Clinical Diagnostics & Therapeutic Technologies; Digital Medicine, Data & Artificial Intelligence; Integrated Care, Rehabilitation & Homecare; Healthcare Infrastructure, Manufacturing & Quality; and Healthcare Systems, Education & Global Health (https://www.

medica-tradefair. com/en/Media_News/Press/Press_material/Press_Releases/Press_Releases/MEDICA_and_COMPAMED_launch_exhibitor_registration_for_2026_with_new_theme_structure)

TL;DR

1MEDICA 2026 takes place 16–19 November 2026 at Messe Düsseldorf, Germany (
2The 2026 edition features a completely new thematic structure with five main exhibition areas
3The new Healthcare Transformation Campus in Hall 12 includes the MEDICA Hospital of the
4In 2025, MEDICA welcomed 80,000 visitors from 165 countries and 4,821 exhibitors from 70
5Forums are free for trade fair visitors; some conferences require an additional ticket (

Attendees, exhibitors & solutions

Who this event is for

Visitor profile

Typical attendee groups you can expect to meet.

Top and middle management (71% of visitors) including C-level executives and hospital management (2025 data) (

Professionals from trade and purchasing cooperatives (30%), industry and manufacturing (18%), hospitals, care facilities and practices (14%), and laboratories/research (4%) (2025 data) (

International audience: 76% of visitors from outside Germany, with 65% from Europe and 35% from outside Europe (2025 data) (

Visitors interested in imaging and diagnostics/medical equipment (80%), consumables (31%), laboratory equipment/diagnostics (27%), IT systems (14%), and physiotherapy/orthopaedic technology (13%) (2025 data) (

Exhibitor profile

Main supplier and exhibitor segments present at the show.

Manufacturers, traders, and service providers in medical technology, including imaging, laboratory technology, medical devices, and clinical equipment (

Companies in digital medicine, data and artificial intelligence, including hospital IT, wearables, telemedicine, AI, cybersecurity, and data platforms (

Providers of integrated care, rehabilitation, and homecare solutions, including homecare, consumables, and infection control (

Suppliers in healthcare infrastructure, manufacturing, and quality, including regulation and market access (

Organisations in healthcare systems, education, and global health, including training, simulation, and healthcare services (

COMPAMED exhibitors in manufacturing, components, materials, compliance, and software for the medical technology supply sector (

Product categories

Key solution areas showcased across the event.

Clinical Diagnostics & Therapeutic Technologies

Digital Medicine, Data & Artificial Intelligence

Integrated Care, Rehabilitation & Homecare

Healthcare Infrastructure, Manufacturing & Quality

Healthcare Systems, Education & Global Health

Location & Facilities

Venue

Open in Google Maps

Halls & areas

Hall 1Halls 3-7.0Hall 7aHall 7.1Halls 10-12Halls 15-17Fairground (outdoor Area)

Messe Düsseldorf

Stockumer Kirchstraße 61, 40474 Düsseldorf, Germany

Entrances & gates

North A

Lower level entrance (downstairs)

North B

Upper level entrance (1st floor)

North D

CCD South Congress Center

East

Served by U80 light rail stop Messe Ost/Stockumer Kirchstraße

South

Premium Ticket holders receive exclusive early entry one hour before the fair opens via the South Entrance

Facilities

Parking

Parking permits for MEDICA 2026 can be purchased in advance through the GOLDBECK Parking Services ticket shop: pre-booking costs EUR 10.00, on-site purchase costs EUR 12.00 (cashless payment only on site). Car parks P1/P2 serve passenger cars; P6 (Messe/CCD area) charges approximately EUR 1.90 per hour with a daily maximum of about EUR 13.00 and is open 24 hours with barrier-free spaces available. Bus and coach parking is on P1/P2 at EUR 20.00 incl. VAT per parking operation per day. (https://messe-parken-duesseldorf.de, https://www.mobypark.com)

€13.00/day

Accessibility

Messe Düsseldorf is a fully accessible venue. All halls have ground-level access, and each hall has sanitary facilities for the disabled. There are also restaurants and bistros with ground-level access. Wheelchair rentals (standard free of charge, electric wheelchairs EUR 20.00) are available at the first aid station in the North Entrance; ask a staff member or use the hall telephones located next to each entrance. Reserved disabled parking spaces are available. (https://www.messe-duesseldorf.com, https://shop-messe-duesseldorf-de.translate.goog)

Prayer rooms

A prayer room/chapel is available in Hall 7. (https://www.messe-duesseldorf.com)

Cloakroom

Cloakrooms are available at the entrances on the exhibition grounds. During the entire trade fair period, you can store clothing and luggage from 1.5 hours before the official opening until one hour after the fair closes. A separate luggage checkroom is available on site, and you can leave suitcases or travel bags free of charge. (https://www.beauty.de, https://logisticssummit.net)

Luggage storage

A separate luggage checkroom is available on site. You can leave your jacket and items of luggage such as suitcases or travel bags there free of charge. (https://logisticssummit.net)

Charging points

Electric vehicle charging stations are available on the exhibition grounds. There is 1 charging station (2 IEC Type 2 chargers, AC max. 11 kW) with payment by card machine via VPay, Maestro or credit card. Additionally, 3 Schuko charging sockets of 16 Ampere each are available, with the charging fee included in the parking fee. (https://www.messe-duesseldorf.com)

On-site shuttle

Free shuttle buses run from the visitor parking lots to the south area of the exhibition grounds. Additionally, during many trade fairs, Rheinbahn provides an additional airport shuttle bus (line 896) from the airport (departure: bus platform arrival level) to the exhibition grounds. (https://www.dokomi.de, https://www.therapiemesse-duesseldorf.de)

Food options

On-site dining, Belle Etoile im Lindner Congress Hotel Düsseldorf, Roku – Japanese Dining & Wine, Staudi's

On-site dining

Parking: Parking permits for MEDICA 2026 can be purchased in advance through the GOLDBECK Parking Services ticket shop: pre-booking costs EUR 10.00, on-site purchase costs EUR 12.00 (cashless payment only on site). Car parks P1/P2 serve passenger cars; P4 (Stockumer Kirchstraße) is available for accredited press free of charge. Car park P6 (Messe/CCD area) charges approximately EUR 1.90 per hour with a daily maximum of about EUR 13.00 and is open 24 hours with barrier-free spaces available. Bus and coach parking is on P1/P2 at EUR 20.00 incl. VAT per parking operation per day. All passengers in a vehicle with a parking permit must hold a valid exhibition entrance ticket. (https://messe-parken-duesseldorf.de, https://shop.messe-duesseldorf.de, https://www.medica.de/de/Presseservices, https://standbau.messe-duesseldorf.de)

Gate: Official entrances for MEDICA 2026 are North A (downstairs), North B (upstairs 1st floor), North D, CCD South Congress Center, East, and South. Premium Ticket holders receive exclusive early entry one hour before the fair opens via the South Entrance. (https://www.medica-tradefair.com/en/Exhibit/Information/At_a_glance, https://www.medica-tradefair.com/en/Visit/What_to_expect/Tickets_vouchers)

Attend

Entry & tickets

Trade-only

Event days & opening times

DayOpening hours

16–19 November 2026: Monday–Wednesday10:00 AM.–6:00 PM

Thursday10:00 AM.–4:00 PM

Event days(https://www.medica-tradefair.com/en/Visit/What_to_expect/Reasons_to_attend_1, https://www.medica.de/de/Besuchen/Vorbereitung/%C3%96ffnungszeiten)

Day ticket (online)
Online sale only (
€50.00
4-day ticket (online)
Valid for the full event; online sale only (
€150.00
4-day VIP ticket (online)
Includes all conferences during the event, masterclasses, the new VIP lounge in Hall 1, and priority entry one hour before general opening via the South entrance (
€799.00
Conference-only ticket (online)
Starting price; e.g. International Sports Pharmacy Symposium, MEDICA MEDICINE + SPORTS CONFERENCE, Wearable Technologies Conference (
€129.00

Ticket info

Badge collection

Tickets are issued as eTickets sent to the registered email address showing the registered company name and personal name; visitors print the eTicket or store it on a device and present the QR code for direct access without waiting at the ticket counter (https://compamed.messe-dus.co.jp/visitors/tickets-catalogue, https://www.medica.de/de/Besuchen/Vorbereitung/Tickets_Gutscheine)

Ticket notes

MEDICA is a B2B trade fair for medical professionals. Online tickets are cheaper than on-site tickets and provide direct access without waiting time. Vouchers can be redeemed online in the ticket shop. The Premium Ticket includes access to MEDICA & COMPAMED throughout the event, admission to the Wearable Technologies Conference Europe, the MEDICA MEDICINE + SPORTS CONFERENCE, the International Sports Pharmacy Symposium (ISPS), exclusive masterclasses (Hall 1, 1st floor), the Premium VIP room (Hall 1, 1st floor), exclusive early entry one hour before the fair opens via the South entrance, and access to the Deutscher Krankenhaustag (https://www.medica.de/de/Besuchen/Vorbereitung/Tickets_Gutscheine). A Düsseldorf public transport ticket is not included in the admission ticket and must be purchased separately (https://shop.messe-duesseldorf.de/)

Who runs the show

Organisers

Messe Düsseldorf GmbH

Organiser and venue operator of MEDICA and COMPAMED

Website

German Health Alliance (GHA)

Co-organiser of the 1st German Health Resilience Conference at MEDICA 2026; joint stand in Hall 10

Website

SPECTARIS

Co-organiser and supporter of the 1st German Health Resilience Conference and GHA joint stand

Website

Wearable Technologies AG

Organiser of the WT | Wearable Technologies Conference Europe and Pavilion at MEDICA 2026

Website

Navispace GmbH

Organiser of the MEDICA INNOVATION FORUM and MEDICA MEDICINE + SPORTS CONFERENCE

Website

GDK (German Hospital Federation)

Organiser of the Deutscher Krankenhaustag (German Hospital Day) at MEDICA 2026

Website

Enterprise Europe Network (EEN)

Organiser of the MEDICA Healthcare Brokerage Event 2026

Website

Carmen Berger

Director MEDICA & COMPAMED, Messe Düsseldorf GmbH

Call Website

Christian Bigge

Senior Project Manager Laboratory & Laboratory Diagnostics, COMPAMED Health Tech; Exhibitor Support Halls 1, 3

Email Call Website

Dr. Claudio Bucchi

Senior Project Manager Digital Health, Innovation & Start-ups, Healthcare Transformation Campus, HOSPITAL OF THE FUTURE, START-UP PARK, Forums; Exhibitor Support Halls 12 & 13

Email Call Website

Sebastian Helwig

Senior Project Manager Healthcare Delivery & Clinical Excellence; Exhibitor Support Halls 9-11

Email Call Website

Viktoria Marx

Senior Project Manager Home Care, Consumables & Hygiene, Sports, Prevention & Rehabilitation, SPORTS HUB, MEDICINE + SPORTS CONFERENCE; Exhibitor Support Halls 4-6, 7a, 7.0

Email Call Website

Elena Walter

Project Manager Country Pavilions, Digital Health, Innovation & Start-ups, MEDICA START-UP PARK; Exhibitor Support Halls 14-17, Joint Stands

Email Call Website

Alina Schröder

Junior Project Manager

Email Call Website

Lena Weidemann

Junior Project Manager Country Pavilions

Email Call Website

Martin Koch

Senior Manager MarCom – Press & PR, Messe Düsseldorf GmbH

Email Call Website

Apostolos Hatzigiannidis

Manager MarCom – Operational Services, Messe Düsseldorf GmbH

Email Call Website

Luisa Harnau

Junior Manager MarCom – Operational Services, Messe Düsseldorf GmbH

Email Call Website

MEDICA Trade Fair Team – General Enquiries

General contact for exhibitor and visitor enquiries

Email Call Website

MEDICA Exhibitor Support – Collective Mailbox

Central email processing for exhibitor enquiries

Email Website

MEDICA Service Hotline

Service and support hotline

Call Website

What's on

Programme

Lecture

Panel Discussion

TBA

Event days

11:35–16:00

Typical time

Official agenda

This agenda is still being finalised. Check the official agenda for the latest sessions.

Speakers

Flo Akinbiyi

International Presenter, TEDx Speaker and Communication Coach

Host of the MEDICA Main Stage

Prof. Dr. David Matusiewicz

Professor of Healthcare Management and Dean of Health & Social Care @ FOM University of Applied Sciences; Director of the ifgs Research Institute

Host of the MEDICA Digital Health Stage; Artificial Intelligence in healthcare

Prof. Dr. Leif Erik Sander

Charité

Panel on resilient health systems

Dr. Shachar Shapira

Sheba Medical Center

Panel on resilient health systems

Dr. Thomas Frandsen

Rigshospitalet – Copenhagen University Hospital

Panel on resilient health systems

Prof. Uwe Nixdorff

European Prevention Center

Discussion on the future of precision medicine

Prof. Mathias Goyen

Medical Director @ GE HealthCare

Discussion on the future of precision medicine

Dr. Matthias Maurer

ESA Astronaut @ European Space Agency (ESA)

Opening Keynote on mental and physical challenges of spaceflight

11:35 – 12:15

Panel Discussion ROBOTICS Enhancing healthcare with intelligent automation

Panel Discussion

MEDICA INNOVATION FORUMHall 11

11:45 – 11:55

From clinical bottleneck to diagnostic capacity Robotics and AI in rheumatology

Lecture

MEDICA INNOVATION FORUMHall 17 B22 & B45

11:50 – 12:15

The Rise of AI in Healthcare

Lecture

MEDICA INNOVATION FORUMHall 12 E36

14:00 – 14:05

HOSPITAL @HOME – Delivering hospital level care at home from diagnostics to regeneration

Lecture

MEDICA INNOVATION FORUMHall 11 J09

14:05 – 14:25

Drones and Robots in Laboratory Logistics: General Capabilities, User Demands, and Quality Standards

Lecture

MEDICA INNOVATION FORUMHall 1 G37

15:00 – 16:00

Faster Than the Ambulance: App-Based First Responders in Cardiac Arrest

Lecture

MEDICA INNOVATION FORUMHall 11 A06

Topic tracks

Clinical Diagnostics & Therapeutic TechnologiesDigital Medicine, Data & Artificial IntelligenceIntegrated Care, Rehabilitation & HomecareHealthcare Infrastructure, Manufacturing & QualityHealthcare Systems, Education & Global Health

Co-located events

COMPAMED 2026

Separate ticket

Wearable Technologies Conference Europe

Separate ticket

1st German Health Resilience Conference (GHRC)

Separate ticket

Co-located seminars

14th MEDICA MEDICINE + SPORTS CONFERENCE

Paid

MEDICA SPORTS HUB

Paid

13th MEDICA INNOVATION FORUM

Paid

MEDICA Start-up Competition & Start-up Stage

Paid

Government supporters

German Health Alliance (GHA)

Co-organiser of the 1st German Health Resilience Conference; joint stand in Hall 10 with SPECTARIS and member companies

SPECTARIS – German Industry Association for Optics, Photonics, Analytical and Medical Technology

Co-organiser and supporter of the German Health Resilience Conference and GHA joint stand

Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Denmark

Co-financing the Danish Pavilion at MEDICA 2026

Welsh Government

Supporting Welsh companies to exhibit or visit MEDICA 2026

Ministry of Foreign and European Affairs, Defence, Development Cooperation and Foreign Trade (Luxembourg)

Organising the National Pavilion at MEDICA 2026 in collaboration with Luxembourg Trade & Invest

Ministry of Economic Affairs, Crafts and Tourism Baden-Württemberg

Funding the BW-UK networking evening and joint activities at MEDICA 2026

Ministry of SMEs and Startups (South Korea)

Supporting the Korean Pavilion at MEDICA 2026

How the last edition performed

Previous edition

Last edition

2025

Completed

Visitors: 78,000

Exhibitors: 5,300

Exhibitor countries: 70

Visitor countries: 160

This edition

2026

Visitors: 78,000

Exhibitors: 4,821

Next edition

2026

MEDICA 2026 takes place from 16 to 19 November 2026 at Messe Düsseldorf with a completely revised thematic structure. The event is driving forward the transformation process launched in 2025 with new themes, programme formats, and targeted networking opportunities. The five new main exhibition areas are: Clinical Diagnostics & Therapeutic Technologies; Digital Medicine, Data & Artificial Intelligence; Integrated Care, Rehabilitation & Homecare; Healthcare Infrastructure, Manufacturing & Quality; and Healthcare Systems, Education & Global Health. A key new highlight is the Healthcare Transformation Campus in Hall 12, which integrates the MEDICA Hospital of the Future, MEDICA Main Stage, Hospital Leadership Summit, and other formats. The Wearable Technologies Conference Europe will make its debut at MEDICA 2026, and the 1st German Health Resilience Conference will premiere. The MEDICA INNOVATION FORUM and the Wearable Technologies Show will be assigned to the digital medicine field, while the Hospital of the Future and the MEDICA TECH FORUM will be in the clinical diagnostics & therapeutic technologies field. (https://www.medica-tradefair.com/en/Media_News/Press/Press_material/Press_Releases/Press_Releases/MEDICA_and_COMPAMED_2026_From_innovation_to_implementation_–_new_topics,_formats_and_networks_for_the_healthcare_of_the_future, https://www.medica-tradefair.com/en/Media_News/Press/Press_material/Press_Releases/Press_Releases/MEDICA_and_COMPAMED_launch_exhibitor_registration_for_2026_with_new_theme_structure)

Five completely revised thematic exhibition areas replacing the previous structure Healthcare Transformation Campus in Hall 12 integrating multiple conference and exhibition formats Debut of the Wearable Technologies Conference Europe in Düsseldorf Premiere of the 1st German Health Resilience Conference Expanded Hospital of the Future mapping the entire clinical patient workflow Hall 9 renovation and North Entrance upgrade as part of the master plan The MEDICA MEDICINE + SPORTS CONFERENCE moving closer to the heart of the exhibition and integrating with the MEDICA SPORTS HUB

Growth over time

Edition recap

MEDICA 2025 took place from 17 to 20 November 2025 in Düsseldorf and was dominated by three hot topics: AI & genAI, robotics & automation, and integrated care & telemedicine. More than 5,300 exhibitors from 70 nations presented their portfolios, and 78,000 trade visitors attended, with three-quarters belonging to top management and 75% travelling from 160 countries. The event was marked by the new theme 'Meet Health. Future. People.' and served as the starting point for a process of change that will continue with innovations in 2026. The newly launched MEDICA INNOVATION FORUM drew particular attention, closely linked to the neighbouring MEDICA START-UP PARK and the Wearables Technologies Show. Svan Technologies from Austria won the 14th MEDICA START-UP COMPETITION, and Nanose Medical from Israel won the HEALTHCARE INNOVATION WORLD CUP. Record participation of over 80 start-ups in the MEDICA START-UP PARK highlighted the dynamism of the start-up scene. (https://www.medica-tradefair.com/en/Visit/What_to_expect/Review, https://www.medica-tradefair.com/en/Media_News/Press/Press_material/Press_Releases/Press_Releases/International_decision-makers_in_the_healthcare_industry_rely_on_MEDICA_2025_and_COMPAMED_2025_in_Düsseldorf)

New this edition

1
Five new main exhibition areas
MEDICA 2026 introduces a completely revised thematic structure with five main exhibition areas: Clinical Diagnostics & Therapeutic Technologies; Digital Medicine, Data & Artificial Intelligence; Integrated Care, Rehabilitation & Homecare; Healthcare Infrastructure, Manufacturing & Quality; and Healthcare Systems, Education & Global Health. The restructuring is based on systematic feedback from exhibitors and visitors during MEDICA 2025
Source
2
Healthcare Transformation Campus in Hall 12
A new integrated campus in Hall 12 that includes the MEDICA Hospital of the Future, the MEDICA Main Stage, the Hospital Leadership Summit, the Hospital Procurement Summit, the Deutscher Krankenhaustag, the WT Conference Europe & Pavilion, and the Consulting & Transformation Hub
Source
3
Wearable Technologies Conference Europe
The WT | Wearable Technologies Conference Europe makes its debut at MEDICA 2026 in Hall 12, organised by Wearable Technologies AG. The conference connects technology development, clinical application, and industrial scaling, with a dedicated Pavilion for wearable technologies
Source
4
1st German Health Resilience Conference
The new German Health Resilience Conference addresses resilience of healthcare systems with concrete strategies for dealing with crises and stressful situations — from cyber resilience to disaster management and stable supply chains. Organised by Messe Düsseldorf in cooperation with the German Health Alliance (GHA) and with support from SPECTARIS
Source
5
Hospital of the Future immersive experience
The significantly expanded 'Hospital of the Future' maps the entire clinical patient workflow within a fully integrated system. Instead of a traditional trade-show booth model, visitors experience an immersive, full-scale hospital environment where innovation becomes tangible along the entire patient pathway
Source
6
Women in Health by MEDICA
A new programme format raising the profile of women in healthcare, featuring curated roundtables and dedicated networking opportunities
Source
7
Hall 9 renovation and North Entrance upgrade
Hall 9 will be completely renovated and technically re-equipped in 2026 and 2027 as part of a master plan to optimise the fairgrounds. The North Entrance is also being upgraded. New conference rooms and the new Messe Düsseldorf headquarters are scheduled for completion by mid
Source

Testimonials

With numerous programmatic changes and the new theme 'Meet Health. Future. People.', we have made this year's MEDICA the starting point for a process of change that addresses the transformation of the international healthcare industry and underlines our commitment to actively shaping this change with forward-looking concepts. We will continue to pursue this path of change consistently with innovations in 2026 as well
Marius Berlemann · Managing Director · Messe Düsseldorf · 2025

Impact

A bigger and stronger platform

MEDICA 2025 demonstrated its role as the world's leading platform for medical technology and healthcare, bringing together more than 5,300 exhibitors from 70 nations and 78,000 trade visitors from 160 countries. The event was defined by three dominant hot topics: AI and generative AI, robotics and automation, and integrated care and telemedicine. A major milestone was the launch of the MEDICA INNOVATION FORUM in Hall 12, which showcased pioneering innovations at the interface with practical application. The presence of Federal Health Minister Nina Warken and EU Health Commissioner Oliver Váhelyi underscored the event's growing significance as a platform for high-level policy dialogue. International buyer delegations from the Gulf States, Africa, and the UK's National Health Service reinforced MEDICA's global reach. (https://www.medica-tradefair.com/en/Media_News/Press/Press_material/Press_Releases/Press_Releases/International_decision-makers_in_the_healthcare_industry_rely_on_MEDICA_2025_and_COMPAMED_2025_in_Düsseldorf, https://www.medica-tradefair.com/en/Visit/What_to_expect/Review)

Audience quality

High-value decision-makers

MEDICA 2025 attracted 78,000 trade visitors from 160 countries, with three-quarters belonging to the top management of their companies or organisations. The official structural data confirms that 71% of visitors held senior or middle management positions. International participation was exceptionally high, with 76% of visitors travelling from abroad—65% from Europe and 35% from outside Europe, including 22% from Asia, 9% from the Americas, 4% from Africa, and 1% from Australia. The top ten visitor countries were Germany, the Netherlands, China, Italy, Great Britain/Northern Ireland, the USA, France, India, Spain, and Belgium. High-profile buyer delegations from the Gulf States, Africa, and the UK's National Health Service reinforced the event's global reach. The overall recommendation rate was 94%. (https://www.medica.de/cgi-bin/md_medica/lib/pub/object/downloadfile.cgi/med2601_Strukturdaten_MEDCOM_2025_DE.pdf?oid=97964&lang=1&ticket=g_u_e_s_t, https://www.medica-tradefair.com/en/Media_News/Press/Press_material/Press_Releases/Press_Releases/International_decision-makers_in_the_healthcare_industry_rely_on_MEDICA_2025_and_COMPAMED_2025_in_Düsseldorf)

Exhibitor outcomes

Real business growth

MEDICA and COMPAMED are recognised as a guarantee for high-quality contacts, with three-quarters of the 78,000 trade visitors belonging to top management. The 2025 edition generated a recommendation rate of 94% among visitors. Exhibitor feedback from MEDICA 2025 highlights strong business outcomes: Lasermet reported that their first MEDICA appearance exceeded expectations, with a successful booth build and high visitor engagement. Huons Global's CEO stated that participation strengthened their presence in the European market and created new opportunities for global collaboration. B.Well Swiss reported dozens of high-quality business meetings, potential distribution opportunities in new regions, and invitations to collaborate on clinical and research projects. The trade fair's ability to attract decision-makers with purchasing authority—over 90% of visiting professionals have decision-making authority—directly supports exhibitor lead generation and partnership development. (https://www.medica-tradefair.com/en/Media_News/Press/Press_material/Press_Releases/Press_Releases/International_decision-makers_in_the_healthcare_industry_rely_on_MEDICA_2025_and_COMPAMED_2025_in_Düsseldorf, https://www.lasermet.com, https://www.huonsglobal.com, https://bwell-swiss.ch/news/one-more-successful-event-in-2025/)

Intelligence

Exhibitors

3,093

Exhibitors

Top exhibitor countries

Top 10 by exhibitor count — estimates based on published directory.

China
695
Germany
451
South Korea
215
Italy
179
Turkey
167
United States
166
Taiwan
137
India
110
France
109
United Kingdom
93

Category breakdown

3,093Exhibitors

1~2,397

estimate

2~224

estimate

3~114

estimate

National pavilions

China

~695 stands

estimate

Germany

~451 stands

estimate

South Korea

~215 stands

estimate

Italy

~179 stands

estimate

Turkey

~167 stands

estimate

United States

~166 stands

estimate

Taiwan

~137 stands

estimate

India

~110 stands

estimate

France

~109 stands

estimate

United Kingdom

~93 stands

estimate

Spain

~80 stands

estimate

Japan

~59 stands

estimate

Netherlands

~47 stands

estimate

Poland

~46 stands

estimate

Pakistan

~45 stands

estimate

Official pavilions

Wearable Technologies Pavilion

Officially Confirmed

Hall 12 · Coord. Messe Düsseldorf GmbH

Buyer targets

High priority

Buyers sourcing

Medical Suppliers (profile Pending)

Buyers sourcing

Other Medical Suppliers

Buyers sourcing

In Vitro Diagnostics & Laboratory Equipment

Buyers sourcing

Medical Disposables & Consumables

Buyers sourcing

Surgical Instruments & OR Equipment

Medium priority

Buyers sourcing

Orthopedics, Prosthetics & Rehabilitation

Buyers sourcing

Patient Monitoring & Electromedical Devices

Buyers sourcing

Digital Health & Healthcare IT

Buyers sourcing

Medical Imaging & Diagnostic Equipment

Buyers sourcing

Hospital Furniture & Facility Management

Intelligence

Market context

Key market insights, trends, news and related events to help you understand the bigger picture.

Europe (Global)

Why it matters

MEDICA 2026 matters because it is the world's leading international trade fair for medical technology and healthcare, serving as the central global platform where the healthcare industry's most significant trends converge and where innovation is translated into practical application. Germany is Europe's largest medical technology market, generating approximately EUR 43 billion in revenue and holding nearly 27% of the European medtech market share, with 13,500 manufacturers employing over 265,000 people. The German hospital reform's Transformation Fund, providing up to EUR 50 billion for 2026–2035, is the primary demand driver, creating significant procurement opportunities for medical technology suppliers. For international exhibitors and buyers, MEDICA provides unmatched access to decision-makers: 75% of visitors are in top management, 75% travel from outside Germany, and more than 160 countries are represented. The event's new thematic structure, aligned with real-world clinical application scenarios, makes it easier for buyers to find relevant solutions and for exhibitors to position their expertise clearly. The introduction of the Wearable Technologies Conference Europe, the debut of the German Health Resilience Conference, and the new MEDICA Main Stage further strengthen the event's role as a community platform where the highest national and international levels of politics, healthcare, industry, and science discuss opportunities and challenges. (https://www.assocamerestero.it./notizie/med-tech-tedesco-nel primo-mercato-europeo-riforma-ospedaliera-semplificazione-medical, https://www.medica-tradefair.com/en/Media_News/Press/Press_material/Press_Releases/Press_Releases/International_decision-makers_in_the_healthcare_industry_rely_on_MEDICA_2025_and_COMPAMED_2025_in_D%C3%BCsseldorf)

Industry trends

Key trends shaping this market and its wider industry.

AI and Generative AI Reshaping Diagnostics and Clinical Decision Support

AI and generative AI are transforming diagnostics, clinical decision support, and patient care at an accelerating pace. At MEDICA 2026, the MEDICA INNOVATION FORUM dedicates sessions to AI, big data, generative AI, and AI-supported remote monitoring. The Digital Medicine, Data & Artificial Intelligence exhibition area covers hospital IT, wearables, telemedicine, AI, cybersecurity, and data platforms. The 15th MEDICA Start-up Competition specifically seeks solutions using AI in healthcare, and the German DiGA framework—which reimburses digital health applications through statutory health insurance—has driven significant market growth, with 59 DiGAs listed as of Spring 2026 and 1.9 million prescriptions issued since launch. The global medical technology market is projected to reach USD 666.25 billion in 2026, with medical devices accounting for USD 571.72 billion. (https://www.medica-tradefair.com/en/Program/Forums_Stages/MEDICA_INNOVATION_FORUM, https://gtai.init-ag.de/en/invest/service/publications/markets-germany/digital-doctoring-2009806

Source

Wearables and Remote Monitoring as Clinically Relevant Technologies

Wearables are rapidly evolving from consumer products into clinically relevant key technologies. From digital biomarkers and smart patches to AI-supported remote monitoring, wearable systems are increasingly transforming diagnostics, prevention, and therapy. The WT | Wearable Technologies Conference Europe makes its debut at MEDICA 2026 in Hall 12, focusing on digital biomarkers, smart patches, FemTech solutions, AI-supported health analytics, continuous patient monitoring, and cybersecurity. Samsung Healthcare will demonstrate how consumer biomarkers can be translated into clinically relevant health analyses, and Verily will explore platforms for predicting diseases before the first symptoms appear. The conference reflects the shift of medical care from traditional clinical settings into patients' everyday lives. (

Source

Medical Robotics and Intelligent Automation Entering Clinical Mainstream

Medical robotics is currently experiencing strong growth rates of up to 16 percent annually over the next five years. The MEDICA INNOVATION FORUM hosts a dedicated session on 'ROBOTICS – Enhancing healthcare with intelligent automation' and a panel discussion on the same topic. Surgical robotics, rehabilitation robotics, and automated laboratory logistics are key themes. Germany's hospital reform Transformation Fund, providing up to EUR 50 billion for 2026–2035, is a primary demand driver, creating significant procurement opportunities for robotics and automation suppliers. The Start-up Competition also invites entries in the robotics category. (https://www.medica-tradefair.com/en/Program/Forums_Stages/MEDICA_INNOVATION_FORUM

Source

Resilient Healthcare Systems and Cybersecurity Under Growing Pressure

Healthcare systems face mounting pressure from pandemics, cyberattacks, extreme weather events, geopolitical conflicts, and power cuts. The 1st German Health Resilience Conference debuts at MEDICA 2026, addressing crisis response strategies, cyber resilience, disaster management, and stable supply chains. The MEDICA INNOVATION FORUM also includes dedicated sessions on resilience in action and cyber-physical security across the supply chain. Cybersecurity and regulatory requirements for connected medical technology are a key theme at the WT Conference Europe. (https://www.medica-tradefair.com/en/Media_News/Press/Press_material/Press_Releases/Press_Releases?page_index=1

Source

Integrated Care and Hospital-at-Home Models Gain Traction

Hospital-at-Home and integrated care models are gaining traction as healthcare systems seek to deliver hospital-level care in home settings. The MEDICA INNOVATION FORUM hosts a session on 'HOSPITAL @HOME – Delivering hospital level care at home from diagnostics to regeneration'. The new Integrated Care, Rehabilitation & Homecare exhibition area covers homecare, consumables, and infection control. The MEDICA Hospital of the Future showcase maps the entire patient journey, from prevention to aftercare. The European medical device market is projected to reach EUR 200 billion by 2026, driven by aging populations and rising chronic disease prevalence. (https://www.medica-tradefair.com/en/Program/Forums_Stages/MEDICA_INNOVATION_FORUM

Source

MDR/IVDR Transition Endgame and Regulatory Simplification

The transition from MDD/IVDD to MDR 2017/745 and IVDR 2017/746 is nearing completion, with full enforcement by 2026 requiring all devices to be MDR/IVDR compliant. EUDAMED modules for UDI, vigilance, and clinical investigation are becoming fully functional, demanding digital transparency. The EU HTA Regulation is increasingly influencing device market entry through joint clinical assessments. At the same time, German medtech SMEs face structural margin compression due to bureaucratic burdens (80% cite this as a cost factor), MDR certification costs (65%), and personnel costs (64%). This creates opportunities for competitive foreign suppliers that can alleviate compliance processes. (https://www.brilitas.com/it/blog/viaggi-1/eu-medical-device-market-forecast regulatory-technological-and-commercial-drivers-with-brilitas-eu-211

Source

Market news

Latest updates from across the market.

Messe Düsseldorf brings Europe's leading wearables conference to Düsseldorf

Read

MEDICA and COMPAMED 2026: From innovation to implementation – new topics, formats and networks for the healthcare of the future

Read

Power cuts, cyberattacks, crisis response: these topics are at the heart of the 1st German Health Resilience Conference

Read

MEDICA MAIN STAGE: Central stage for the big future questions of the healthcare industry

Read

MEDICA and COMPAMED announce new topics and formats for the 2026 show

Read

MEDICA and COMPAMED launch exhibitor registration for 2026 with new theme structure

Read

Global Medical Technology Trade Fair Circuit 2026–2027

6–12 months ahead for booth space and sponsorship; 3–6 months ahead for visitor travel and conference registration

The global medical technology trade fair circuit spans Europe, the Middle East, North America, and Asia, offering exhibitors and buyers a sequence of major events across the calendar. MEDICA in Düsseldorf anchors the European autumn season, while WHX Dubai (formerly Arab Health) opens the new year in the Middle East. RSNA in Chicago dominates radiology in late November–early December, and HIMSS covers healthcare IT across both Chicago and Europe. Regional events such as Medical Fair Asia in Singapore and Medical Fair India provide access to fast-growing Asian markets. COMPAMED runs in parallel with MEDICA in Düsseldorf, focusing on the supplier and manufacturing side of medical technology. Planning across these events allows companies to maintain continuous market presence, align product launches with key audiences, and build on regional strengths

16–19 Nov 2026

MEDICA 2026

Düsseldorf, Germany

Five new thematic exhibition areas, Healthcare Transformation Campus in Hall 12, Wearable Technologies Conference Europe debut, 1st German Health Resilience Conference. (

website

16–19 Nov 2026

COMPAMED 2026

Düsseldorf, Germany

Held in parallel with MEDICA in Halls 8a and 8b. Focus on manufacturing, components, materials, compliance, and software. (

website

16–19 Nov 2026

RSNA 2026

Chicago, United States

112th Scientific Assembly and Annual Meeting at McCormick Place. Technical Exhibits open November 29–December 2, 10 a.m.–5 p.m. Registration opened July 29, 2026. (

website

16–19 Nov 2026

MEDICAL FAIR ASIA 2026

Singapore, Singapore

International exhibition on hospital, diagnostic, pharmaceutical, medical, and rehabilitation equipment and supplies. (

website

16–19 Nov 2026

Medical Fair India 2026 (Mumbai)

Mumbai, India

32nd edition at Bombay Exhibition Center (Goregaon E). Second 2026 edition in New Delhi, March 13–15, 2027 at Bharat Mandapam (Pragati Maidan). (

website

Autumn European Medtech Window (September–December 2026)

MEDICAL FAIR ASIA 2026Medical Fair India 2026 (Mumbai)MEDICA 2026COMPAMED 2026RSNA 2026

A dense sequence of major events across Asia, Europe, and North America. MEDICA and COMPAMED anchor the European autumn; RSNA closes the radiology calendar in Chicago

Q1–Q2 2027 Middle East & North America Window (January–June 2027)

WHX Dubai 2027HIMSS Global Health Conference 2027HIMSS27 Europe

WHX Dubai opens the new year in the Middle East. HIMSS covers healthcare IT in Chicago in April and Barcelona in June, bridging North American and European digital health audiences

Event dates are sourced from official organiser websites and confirmed by multiple industry calendars. MEDICA and COMPAMED dates are organiser-published. RSNA dates are published by RSNA. WHX Dubai dates are published by the World Health Expo. HIMSS dates are published by HIMSS. MEDICAL FAIR ASIA and Medical Fair India dates are published by Messe Düsseldorf Asia and Messe Düsseldorf India respectively

Plan your trip

Travel & logistics

Local currency · EUR

Arrival airports

Choose from the following airports, with convenient access to the event and venue.

DUS

Düsseldorf Airport

The U81 light rail takes visitors directly from the airport terminal to the North Entrance in seven minutes via the 'MERKUR SPIEL-ARENA/Messe Nord' station. The U80 connects the airport at regular intervals with the 'Messe Ost/Stockumer Kirchstraße' stop, serving the East Entrance, the city center and the main train station. The S11 train connects the airport with Düsseldorf Central Station (Hbf). A fixed taxi fare of EUR 25.00 applies for journeys between the airport and the fairground. (https://www.messe-duesseldorf.com/cgi-bin/md_home/lib/pub/tt.cgi?oid=8943&lang=2&ticket=g_u_e_s_t

Approximately 3 km

to venue

About 10 minutes by taxi

by car

CGN

Cologne/Bonn Airport

Cologne/Bonn Airport is an alternative international gateway; rail connections via Cologne to Düsseldorf Hauptbahnhof take around one hour. From there, transfer to U-Bahn lines U78 or U79 for the exhibition centre. (

Approximately 60 km

to venue

About 50-60 minutes by car or train

by car

Hotel tiers

A range of accommodation options near the venue and across key areas.

Budget

Düsseldorf city centre / Hauptbahnhof / Reisholz

USD 90–160 / night

Budget-friendly options such as a&o Düsseldorf Hauptbahnhof (hostel/budget hotel, 10-minute walk from Main Station), B&B Hotel Düsseldorf-City (1.5 km from main station), and acora Düsseldorf Living the City (3-star, quiet Reisholz district with good public transport links). Prices are estimates based on third-party booking platforms; MEDICA week rates can be 20–35% higher than standard periods. (https://expotravelsolutions.com

Mid-range

Düsseldorf Seestern / Derendorf / Oberkassel / Airport

USD 150–280 / night

Convenient options including H2 Hotel Düsseldorf Seestern, Courtyard by Marriott Düsseldorf Seestern (4 km from Messe), INNSiDE by Meliá Düsseldorf Derendorf, Me and All Hotel Düsseldorf Oberkassel, and Holiday Inn Düsseldorf City – Toulouser Allee. These hotels offer good U-Bahn access to the venue. Prices are estimates. (https://tournews.tw, https://trivago.com

Premium / Luxury

Düsseldorf city centre / Near Messe

USD 300–550 / night

Premium properties including Living Hotel De Medici (5-star art hotel in the old town, Mühlenstrasse 31), Clayton Hotel Düsseldorf City Centre (in the Japanese district, 500 m from Königsallee), and Maritim Hotel Düsseldorf (near the exhibition centre). Rates during MEDICA week start from around EUR 356.50 (approx. USD 390) per night for the Clayton Hotel. Prices are estimates based on third-party booking platforms. (https://trade-fair-trips.com, https://guide.michelin.com

Hotel Ships (Alternative)

Schnellenburg / Theodor Heuss Bridge, Düsseldorf

USD 360–430 / night

KD hotel ships moored in Düsseldorf offer a unique floating hotel experience. MEDICA Comfort from EUR 329 (approx. USD 360) for MS Charles Dickens and MS Carmen (Schnellenburg). MEDICA Comfort Plus from EUR 329 for MS Monarch Duchess (Theodor Heuss Bridge). MEDICA Luxury from USD 365 for MS Spirit of the Moselle. Booking period 15–19 November 2026, minimum 3–4 nights. (

Local transport

Get around the city with these convenient transport options.

U-Bahn (Stadtbahn) — U78 / U79

Estimated costEUR 3.80 single ticket (Preisstufe A, 2026); 4-ticket EUR 15.20; Deutschlandticket EUR 63/month

Best forDüsseldorf Hauptbahnhof → Messe Nord (U78) or Messe Ost/Stockumer Kirchstr. (U79); also connects Heinrich-Heine-Allee and city centre

U78 serves the MERKUR SPIEL-ARENA/Messe Nord stop (North Entrance). U79 serves Messe Ost/Stockumer Kirchstr. (East Entrance). From Hauptbahnhof the journey takes approximately 15–20 minutes. During MEDICA, the U78 runs at increased frequency. The admission ticket is NOT valid for public transport; a separate Rheinbahn ticket must be purchased. Tickets are available via the Rheinbahn app or online store, or at station machines. (https://www.medica-tradefair.com/en/Home/Arrival_Public_transport, https://www.rheinbahn.de

U-Bahn (Stadtbahn) — U81 Airport Express (trade fair days only)

Estimated costEUR 3.80 single ticket (Preisstufe A)

Best forDüsseldorf Airport Terminal → MERKUR SPIEL-ARENA/Messe Nord (North Entrance)

The U81 operates only on trade fair days and provides a direct 7-minute connection between Düsseldorf Airport Terminal and the North Entrance via MERKUR SPIEL-ARENA/Messe Nord. It replaced the former fair shuttle bus line 896. On trade fair days the U81 runs every 20–30 minutes. The only intermediate stop is Freiligrathplatz. This is the fastest public transport option from the airport to the venue. (https://www.lok-report.de/news/deutschland/aus-den-laendern/nrw-stadtbahnstrecke-zum-flughafen-duesseldorf-eroeffnet.html

U-Bahn (Stadtbahn) — U80 Airport–City Line

Estimated costEUR 3.80 single ticket (Preisstufe A)

Best forDüsseldorf Airport Terminal → Düsseldorf Hauptbahnhof (city centre)

The U80 connects Düsseldorf Airport Terminal directly with the Hauptbahnhof and city centre, running every 20 minutes (30 minutes in off-peak and on Sundays). Journey time from Hauptbahnhof to the airport is approximately 18–19 minutes. From Hauptbahnhof, transfer to U78 or U79 for the exhibition centre. (https://www.lok-report.de/news/deutschland/aus-den-laendern/nrw-stadtbahnstrecke-zum-flughafen-duesseldorf-eroeffnet.html

S-Bahn — S11

Estimated costEUR 3.80 single ticket (Preisstufe A)

Best forDüsseldorf Airport Terminal → Düsseldorf Hauptbahnhof

The S11 S-Bahn connects the airport's underground station with Düsseldorf Hauptbahnhof in approximately 12 minutes, with departures every 20 minutes. From Hauptbahnhof, transfer to U78 or U79 for the exhibition centre. The S11 is an alternative to the U80 for airport–city transfers. (

Bus — line 722

Estimated costEUR 3.80 single ticket (Preisstufe A)

Best forDüsseldorf city centre → Messe Ost or Messe Süd/CCD

Bus line 722 serves the exhibition centre with stops at Messe Ost and Messe Süd/CCD. Useful for reaching the South Entrance or CCD Congress Center. Connects with the city centre bus network. (

Taxi

Estimated costFixed EUR 25.00 airport–Messe; Hauptbahnhof–Messe approximately EUR 21.00; base fare EUR 5.00 + EUR 2.70/km for other journeys

Best forDüsseldorf Airport ↔ Messe Düsseldorf (fixed fare); also from Hauptbahnhof and city centre

A fixed trade fair fare of EUR 25.00 applies for journeys between Düsseldorf Airport and the exhibition grounds, regardless of journey time. The journey takes approximately 10 minutes. From the Hauptbahnhof the fare is approximately EUR 21.00 and takes about 14 minutes. Large-capacity taxis (more than 4 passengers) carry a EUR 9.00 surcharge. Taxis can drop exhibitors directly at the halls up to 10:00 a.m. during the fair. (https://www.nrz.de/lokales/duesseldorf/article407668885/neue-tarife-taxifahren-in-duesseldorf-soll-teurer-werden.html

Ride-hailing (Uber, Bolt, FREENOW)

Estimated costTypically EUR 20–35 depending on origin and demand

Best forAirport, city centre, and hotels → Messe Düsseldorf

Uber, Bolt, and FREENOW (formerly mytaxi) operate in Düsseldorf. Uber has expanded its 'Women Drivers' initiative to Düsseldorf, allowing female passengers to select female drivers. FREENOW is Europe's leading mobility app. Ride-hailing can be a convenient alternative to taxis, particularly from hotels outside the U-Bahn network. Prices may surge during peak trade fair hours. (https://www.nrz.de/lokales/duesseldorf/article411142203/neues-uber-angebot-in-duesseldorf-frauen-sollen-frauen-fahren-alle-infos.html, https://bolt.eu

Car & Parking

Estimated costParking permit EUR 10.00 pre-booked / EUR 12.00 on-site; P6 approximately EUR 1.90/hour with daily maximum about EUR 13.00

Best forVia A44 motorway, exit Messe Düsseldorf; car parks P1, P2, P6, P4 (press)

Parking permits can be purchased in advance via the GOLDBECK Parking Services ticket shop. Car parks P1/P2 serve passenger cars; P6 (Messe/CCD area) is open 24 hours with barrier-free spaces. Accredited press can park free of charge in car park P4 (Stockumer Kirchstraße). Bus and coach parking is on P1/P2 at EUR 20.00 incl. VAT per day. All passengers in a vehicle with a parking permit must hold a valid exhibition entrance ticket. (https://messe-parken-duesseldorf.de, https://shop.messe-duesseldorf.de

On-site Shuttle Bus

Estimated costFree for parking lot shuttle; line 896 standard Rheinbahn fare applies

Best forVisitor parking lots → South area of exhibition grounds; airport shuttle (line 896 during major fairs)

Free shuttle buses run from the visitor parking lots to the south area of the exhibition grounds. During many trade fairs, Rheinbahn provides an additional airport shuttle bus (line 896) from the airport departure level to the exhibition grounds. Note: the U81 now replaces line 896 on trade fair days, but supplementary shuttles may still operate depending on demand. (https://www.dokomi.de, https://www.therapiemesse-duesseldorf.de

Bike-share / E-scooter

Estimated costVaries by provider; typically EUR 1.00–3.00 per 30 minutes

Best forDüsseldorf city centre and surrounding districts → Messe Düsseldorf

Bike-share stations are located near the exhibition grounds. E-scooters from providers such as Bolt, Lime, and Tier operate throughout Düsseldorf. A bike or e-scooter ride from the city centre to the venue takes approximately 25–35 minutes along dedicated cycle paths. Not recommended for rainy November weather but useful on dry days. (https://www.standszone.com

Plan your trip

Visa & entry documents

Check the latest visa requirements and entry guidelines before travelling.

Visa required

ATA Carnet: accepted

Type	Who needs it	Fee	Processing
Schengen Short-Stay Visa (Type C) – Business	Citizens of non-EU/EEA countries who are not visa-exempt and require a visa for a short business visit to Germany of up to 90 days within any 180-day period. This covers attending trade fairs, business meetings, contract negotiations, and conferences. The visa does not authorise employment or paid services to a German entity. (	$90.00	Standard: up to 15 calendar days for an admissible application. Extended: up to 45 calendar days when further checks or Schengen-state consultation are needed. Apply at least 4-6 weeks in advance during peak periods. (https://xpath.global/blog/germany-business-visa-processing-time-vs-work-permit
Schengen Short-Stay Visa (Type C) – Trade Fair Exhibitor (free of charge)	Exhibitors at MEDICA 2026 who possess an exhibitor authorisation (confirmation of admission) from Messe Düsseldorf GmbH. The visa is issued free of charge when this authorisation is submitted. (	—	Typically 15 calendar days; may be longer during peak periods. (

Citizens of EU/EEA countries and Switzerland do not need a visa. Citizens of 62 non-EU countries can enter Germany visa-free for short stays of up to 90 days within any 180-day period for tourism, business meetings, or family visits. This includes the United States, United Kingdom, Canada, Australia, Japan, South Korea, New Zealand, Israel, Singapore, Malaysia, Brazil, Mexico, Argentina, United Arab Emirates, and others. The visa exemption does not permit employment. Nationals of many countries, including India, China, Russia, Turkey, and most African and Middle Eastern countries, require a Schengen visa. Check the official German Federal Foreign Office country table for your specific nationality. (https://www.auswaertiges-amt.de/en/visa-service/-/231148, https://www.vanguardngr.com/2026/07/list-of-countries-that-dont-need-visa-to-enter-germany/)

Germany accepts the ATA Carnet for the temporary duty-free import of trade fair goods, professional equipment, and product samples. From 1 June 2026, the digital ATA Carnet (eCarnet) is mandatory in the EU, Switzerland, Norway, and the United Kingdom; the paper version is being phased out. German ATA Carnets are issued exclusively by the local Chambers of Industry and Commerce (IHK) via the eATA portal. The carnet is valid for a maximum of 12 months and covers durable goods only, not consumables. It eliminates the need to pay customs duties or provide security deposits in the country of import. A transitional period accepting both digital and paper versions runs until the end of 2027. (https://www.ebnerstolz.de/en/what-we-offer/services/tax-advice/customs-law/eu-ecarnet.html, https://www.ihk.de/stuttgart/fuer-unternehmen/international/import-export/carnet-ata-cpd/alte-ausfuellhilfen-carnet-4411790)

Official visa page

Weather

November in Düsseldorf is typically variable and sometimes rainy. The month averages about 10 sunny days but expects rain 30% of the time, often heavy. Average minimum temperatures are around 6 °C and average maximums around 10 °C. For the period 16–22 November 2026, the most probable scenario is intermittent showers or rain (42% probability) with highs around 10 °C and lows around 7 °C. The second most likely scenario is clouds and sun (33% probability) with highs around 8 °C and lows around 4 °C. (https://voyage.lachainemeteo.com/meteo-voyage/ville-2130/meteo-a-dusseldorf-en-novembre)

Plan for the climate

Check temperatures and pack accordingly

Venue connectivity

Messe Düsseldorf is exceptionally well connected by public transport. The U81 light rail provides a direct seven-minute link from Düsseldorf Airport terminal to the North Entrance via the 'MERKUR SPIEL-ARENA/Messe Nord' station on trade fair days. The U80 connects the airport to 'Messe Ost/Stockumer Kirchstraße' (East Entrance) and continues to the city center and main train station (Hauptbahnhof). The U78 and U79 lines connect the fairgrounds to the city center and main station, with journey times of about 15–20 minutes. The S11 S-Bahn connects the airport to Düsseldorf Central Station. A taxi from the airport to the fairground costs a fixed EUR 25.00 and takes about 10 minutes. The venue is located just 3 km from the airport and is easily accessible by car via the A44 motorway, exit Messe Düsseldorf. (https://www.messe-duesseldorf.com/cgi-bin/md_home/lib/pub/tt.cgi?oid=8943&lang=2&ticket=g_u_e_s_t, https://www.conferank.com/conferences/medica/venue)

Ride-hailing

Taxis

Public transit

Car rentals

Cultural notes

Useful information to help you have a smooth and respectful visit.

Punctuality and Formality in German Business Culture

Punctuality is non-negotiable in German business culture; arriving late to a meeting or stand appointment is considered disrespectful. The norm is to arrive about five minutes early. Business interactions are generally formal, especially at first meetings, with a firm handshake and direct eye contact upon arrival and departure. Use titles (Herr, Frau, Dr., Prof.) until invited to use first names. Professionalism is highly valued, and small talk is limited—conversations focus on substantive matters. (https://www.babbelforbusiness.com

Language and International Communication

MEDICA is a highly international event, with visitors from over 160 countries. English is the primary working language at the fair, and most educated Germans speak English fluently. However, exhibitors with multilingual staff are better positioned to serve international delegations—Arabic, Mandarin, French, and Spanish are frequently requested at MEDICA. Exhibitors should ensure stand staff have strong language competency and basic medical knowledge for effective conversations with international buyers. (

Trade Fair Preparation and Follow-Up

In Germany, trade fairs are treated as key moments in the annual business calendar and function as meeting points where suppliers, partners, and customers reconnect. Trust in the German business environment is strongly influenced by personal interaction, and face-to-face conversations at trade fairs significantly accelerate relationship-building. The most successful exhibitors identify key contacts in advance, schedule meetings before the event, and systematically follow up within weeks after the fair to convert initial meetings into concrete business opportunities. (

Dining and Table Etiquette

Germans take table etiquette and manners seriously. Wait for the host before taking a sip or starting to eat. Do not expect coffee to accompany the noon or evening meal; it is served after. Business lunches are common, but the focus is typically on the meeting rather than on extended socializing. (

Practical guides

Visitor & Exhibitor Essentials

Everything needed to arrive prepared, navigate the event, and make the visit productive.

Flights

Destination: Düsseldorf Airport (DUS)

Düsseldorf Airport is the primary gateway, located just 3 km from the venue. The new U81 light rail provides a seven-minute connection from the airport terminal to the North Entrance on trade fair days. Alternatively, the U80 connects the airport to the East Entrance, city centre, and main train station. A fixed taxi fare of EUR 25.00 applies for journeys between the airport and the fairground. Cologne/Bonn Airport (CGN), approximately 60 km away, is an alternative international gateway with rail connections via Cologne to Düsseldorf Hauptbahnhof taking around one hour. Book flights early as MEDICA week is a peak travel period in Düsseldorf. (https://www.messe-duesseldorf.com/cgi-bin/md_home/lib/pub/tt.cgi?oid=8943&lang=2&ticket=g_u_e_s_t, https://www.dus.com)

Visa

A Schengen Type C visa is required for non-EU/EEA nationals who are not visa-exempt and plan to attend MEDICA 2026 for business purposes for up to 90 days. Exhibitors holding an exhibitor authorisation from Messe Düsseldorf qualify for a free visa. Citizens of 62 non-EU countries (including the US, UK, Canada, Australia, Japan, South Korea, Singapore, and Brazil) can attend visa-free for up to 90 days. Nationals of India, China, Russia, Turkey, and most African and Middle Eastern countries require a visa. (https://www.auswaertiges-amt.de/en/visa-service/215870-215870, https://www.medica-tradefair.com/en/Home/Help_Arrival/FAQ/FAQs_1)

Processing: 15 calendar days standard; up to 45 calendar days where further checks or Schengen-state consultation are needed

Apply at least 4-6 weeks before travel, especially during peak season. Required documents typically include a valid passport (minimum 3 months validity beyond return date, 2 blank pages), completed VIDEX application form, biometric photographs, travel medical insurance (minimum EUR 30,000 coverage), confirmed flight and hotel bookings, bank statements for the last 3 to 6 months, employer letter, and trade fair registration or exhibitor authorisation. Messe Düsseldorf is represented by 77 partners in 141 nations worldwide who can assist with visa-related services. (https://xpath.global/blog/germany-business-visa-processing-time-vs-work-permit, https://www.medica-tradefair.com/en/Home/Help_Arrival/FAQ/FAQs_1)

Official Partner

Transport

Get to the venue and around the city with these options.

Airport → venue: Düsseldorf Airport (DUS) is approximately 3 km from Messe Düsseldorf. The U81 light rail provides a direct 7-minute connection from the airport terminal to the North Entrance via MERKUR SPIEL-ARENA/Messe Nord on trade fair days. The U80 connects the airport to Messe Ost/Stockumer Kirchstraße (East Entrance), city centre, and main train station. A fixed taxi fare of EUR 25.00 applies. Cologne/Bonn Airport (CGN) is approximately 60 km away with rail connections via Cologne to Düsseldorf Hauptbahnhof taking around one hour. (https://www.messe-duesseldorf.com/cgi-bin/md_home/lib/pub/tt.cgi?oid=8943&lang=2&ticket=g_u_e_s_t, https://www.dus.com)

Hotel → venue: Downtown Atlanta and convention-center hotels are typically within walking distance or a short ride-hail/MARTA trip to the venue.

Ride-hail: Taxis are readily available at the airport, main train station, and throughout the city. A fixed fare of EUR 25.00 applies for journeys between Düsseldorf Airport and the fairground. Ride-hailing apps such as Uber and Bolt operate in Düsseldorf, though traditional taxis remain the most common option. Taxis can drop exhibitors directly at the halls up to 10:00 a.m. during the fair's run. (https://www.messe-duesseldorf.com, https://www.dus.com)

Public transit: The venue is served by U-Bahn lines U78 (Messe Nord) and U79 (Messe Ost) from Düsseldorf Hauptbahnhof, and since September 2026 by the new U80 and U81 lines from Düsseldorf Airport. Buses 704, 721, 722, 723, 724, 726, 728, 730, 778, and 788 serve the Messe Ost stop. The S11 S-Bahn connects the airport to Düsseldorf Central Station. A single journey within Düsseldorf costs approximately EUR 3.00. Admission tickets are not valid for public transport; a separate ticket must be purchased. (https://www.messe-duesseldorf.com, https://shop.messe-duesseldorf.de, https://www.soufair.com)

Parking: Parking permits can be purchased in advance through the GOLDBECK Parking Services ticket shop for EUR 10.00 (pre-booked) or EUR 12.00 (on-site, cashless payment only). Car parks P1/P2 serve passenger cars; P6 (Messe/CCD) charges approximately EUR 1.90 per hour with a daily maximum of about EUR 13.00 and offers barrier-free spaces. Bus and coach parking is on P1/P2 at EUR 20.00 incl. VAT per day. All passengers in a vehicle with a parking permit must hold a valid exhibition entrance ticket. (https://messe-parken-duesseldorf.de, https://www.mobypark.com)

Weather

Plan and pack for the event climate.

Month: November 2026

Temperature: Average lows around 6 °C, average highs around 10 °C

Seasonality: Variable and sometimes rainy. About 10 sunny days but rain is expected 30% of the time, often heavy. For the period 16–22 November 2026, intermittent showers or rain is the most probable scenario (42% probability)

Packing: Bring layers, a warm jacket, and a compact umbrella. Comfortable walking shoes are essential as you may cover long distances between halls. A scarf and gloves are advisable for cooler evenings. (https://voyage.lachainemeteo.com/meteo-voyage/ville-2130/meteo-a-dusseldorf-en-novembre)

Itinerary builder

Add priorities and side trips to make the most of your visit.

Add side trips

Default day plan

08:00Depart hotel for Messe Düsseldorf via U-Bahn U78 or U79 to Messe Nord/Messe Ost
09:00Arrive at the exhibition centre, collect or activate your eTicket and enter via the nearest gate
10:00Visit the Healthcare Transformation Campus and MEDICA Hospital of the Future
12:30Lunch at one of the on-site catering areas
13:30Explore product categories relevant to your interests across Halls 1, 3-7.0, 10-12 and 15-17
16:00Attend a forum session or conference at the MEDICA Innovation Forum or Main Stage
18:00Depart the fairground and travel to the city centre for dinner

Plan your trip

Planning

Best day to visit: Monday, 16 November 2026

Recommendation. Monday offers full hours (10:00 to 18:00), all multi-day conferences (German Hospital Conference, German Health Resilience Conference, WT Conference Europe) running, and the one-day International Sports Pharmacy Symposium that happens only on 16 November. Avoid making Thursday your only day: halls close at 16:00.

T-60

Check Schengen visa needs and book a visa appointment — Guidance. The standard Schengen short-stay visa fee is EUR 90 for adults, plus any visa-centre service charge. Messe Dusseldorf advised for the prior edition that applications can be filed up to six months before travel and that appointment slots fill quickly [2024 guidance]. Visa-exempt travellers should check whether ETIAS applies to their travel dates.

T-45

Book flights and a hotel for 16 to 19 November 2026 — Guidance. MEDICA runs Monday to Thursday. Halls are open 10:00 to 18:00 Monday to Wednesday and 10:00 to 16:00 on Thursday, so a Sunday arrival and a Thursday evening departure cover a full visit. Hotel figures in the cost items are estimates, not quotes.

T-30

Buy an eTicket online — Official 2026 prices: 1-day ticket EUR 50 online or EUR 95 on site. Season ticket EUR 150 online or EUR 275 on site. Premium ticket EUR 799 (adds WT Conference Europe, MEDICINE + SPORTS CONFERENCE, ISPS, masterclasses, the Premium VIP Lounge in Hall 1 Level 1, German Hospital Conference access, and early entry one hour before opening via the South Entrance). Exhibitor voucher codes can only be redeemed in the online ticket shop.

T-30

Decide on paid conferences and add them to your ticket — Conference admission is charged separately from the fair ticket. Official 2026 online prices: 1st German Health Resilience Conference EUR 130 per day or EUR 299 for the season (German language, Hall 11). MEDICA MEDICINE + SPORTS CONFERENCE season ticket EUR 189 (Hall 4). ISPS on 16 November EUR 129. WT Conference Europe season ticket EUR 650 (Hall 12). German Hospital Conference (Hall 12) requires a voucher.

T-21

Shortlist exhibitors by the five 2026 exhibition areas and request meetings — Guidance. MEDICA 2026 uses a new five-area structure, so older hall habits may not apply. Use the online exhibitor index, the interactive hall plan, and Fair Match matchmaking to book meetings. COMPAMED (components and manufacturing) runs in Halls 8a and 8b on the same ticket.

T-14

Plan local transport and parking — Official: for 2026, public transport is not included in the Messe Dusseldorf admission ticket, so buy a separate Rheinbahn ticket. Parking permits can be bought in advance through GOLDBECK Parking Services. Route details are at messe-duesseldorf.de/arrival.

T-7

Download the MEDICA App and build a day plan — Guidance. Group stands by hall to cut walking time. Prioritise the Healthcare Transformation Campus in Hall 12 (Hospital of the Future, MEDICA Main Stage, Hospital Leadership and Procurement Summits). Leave Thursday for follow-ups because halls close at 16:00.

T-1

Pack for November weather and confirm your entrance — Guidance. Bring layers, an umbrella and comfortable shoes. Premium Ticket holders should use the South Entrance for early entry. All eTickets include a free one-day WiFi code (2 Mbps, 1 GB). Paid WiFi vouchers start at EUR 6.

Sample visitor itinerary

Route-optimised day