DA NANG, Vietnam
The Organizing Committee of HORECFEX Vietnam announced the return of HORECFEX Vietnam 2026, the Hospitality & Tourism Forum for Technology, Innovation & Procurement, which will take place August 2021, 2026 at the Ariyana International Convention Centre Da Nang. The announcement was made at a press conference held July 23 at the same venue, where the committee unveiled the forum’s first official programme details under the theme “ALL YOU NEED – Knowledge, Technology, Supply and Connections.”
Personalized guest journeys powered by data, hotels operating more efficiently through artificial intelligence, and resorts optimizing energy consumption with smart technologies are no longer visions of the future. These innovations are already reshaping the hospitality and tourism industry, transforming operational models and strengthening business competitiveness in the digital era.
Representatives of the Organizing Committee answering questions from journalists and reporters.
The forum is positioned as a platform where businesses, executives, industry experts and partners can exchange knowledge, follow emerging trends, explore technology solutions and expand collaboration opportunities across the sector.
Smart Glasses and AI Robots Debut at the Press Conference
Rather than simply showcasing emerging technologies, the committee integrated artificial intelligence and virtual reality solutions directly into the press conference. Among the highlights was the Rokid Smart Glasses, which enabled journalists to record footage from a first-person perspective while providing real time subtitles and multilingual interpretation. For the hospitality sector, the technology has applications across front office operations, guest services, staff training and F&B experiences through real-time translation and augmented reality menus.
“The future is no longer somewhere ahead of us it is already within everyone’s sight,” said Pham Ngoc Loi, Director of Information Technology and Innovation at HORECFEX Vietnam. “For the hospitality, restaurant and tourism sectors, technology is not meant to replace people; it is designed to help people see faster, understand deeper, and deliver more thoughtful service.”
The Meta Quest 3 virtual reality headset was used to recreate event spaces and deliver 360 degree experiences, allowing guests to virtually step inside venues such as Furama Villas and the Ariyana Convention Centre. Virtual and mixed reality were also introduced as practical tools for sales, staff training and destination promotion, shortening decision-making processes and reducing site inspection costs.
An ecosystem of AI powered robots was also showcased. The Unitree Robotics quadruped robot was presented for security patrols and emergency response across resorts and convention centres. The OrionStar reception robot, capable of communicating in more than 30 languages, welcomed guests and provided directions, while the KEENON service robot supported the press conference reception, illustrating applications in food and beverage service.
Journalists and members of the press experience innovative technologies during the HORECFEX Vietnam 2026 press conference.
From Demonstrations to Real-World Applications
Building on the previous two editions, solutions such as electronic facial recognition check-in and service robots will again feature at the 2026 forum. At the Furama Ariyana International Tourism Complex Da Nang, the AI service robot Ms. Ariyana continues to operate in the lobby, serving welcome drinks and providing information to guests, while Furama Resort Danang has incorporated artificial intelligence into music, visual content and personalized welcome messages.
“HORECFEX is not merely a showcase of today’s products we are shaping the ideas of tomorrow,” said Nguyen Duc Quynh, Founder and Chairman of HORECFEX Vietnam. “Our mission goes beyond introducing new technologies; it is about sharing knowledge. It goes beyond connecting businesses; it is about connecting visions.”
Mr. Nguyen Duc Quynh, Founder and Chairman of HORECFEX Vietnam, delivers his remarks at the press conference.
A Comprehensive Ecosystem for the Industry
The 2026 edition will feature more than 40 keynote presentations and panel discussions with approximately 55 speakers from 20 countries, covering artificial intelligence, hotel management, revenue optimization, sustainability, foo and beverage, and workforce development. Nearly 100 exhibitors will present products, equipment and services spanning F&B, housekeeping, wellness, interior design and facilities management, alongside B2B matchmaking programmes connecting investors, operators and solution providers.
“When technology is effectively invested in and implemented within businesses, the entire operational chain of the hospitality and tourism industry from housekeeping and front office operations to convention and event management can achieve higher productivity and improved service quality,” said Andre Gentzsch, Vice Chairman and Chief Operating Officer of HORECFEX Vietnam.
Mr. Andre Gentzsch, Vice Chairman and Chief Operating Officer of HORECFEX Vietnam, delivers his remarks at the press conference.
“Technology will determine productivity. Innovation will determine the pace of development. Ultimately, however, people will define the value of the service industry,” Quynh said. “Technology can help us serve faster. AI can help us better understand our guests. But only people can create emotion, genuine connections, and true hospitality.”
About HORECFEX Vietnam
HORECFEX Vietnam is the Hospitality & Tourism Forum for Technology, Innovation & Procurement, jointly organized by the HORECFEX Organizing Committee and the Vietnam Hotel Association. The forum connects hotels, resorts, restaurants, F&B businesses and tourism enterprises with technology providers, industry experts, training institutions and international partners through its exhibition, conference programme, live technology demonstrations and business networking activities.
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