Belgrade is facing a major accommodation challenge as it prepares to host the Expo 2027 exhibition, with experts warning the city may struggle to handle the expected 4 million visitors – nearly three times its current annual tourist numbers. The specialized event, scheduled to run for three months, would require Belgrade to accommodate more visitors than currently visit all of Serbia in a year.
The situation appears particularly concerning given current construction delays. Key projects like the planned 390-room hotel near the National Stadium likely won’t be completed in time, while only about 2,000 state-built housing units are confirmed. Private developers may add 3,000-4,000 more units in Surčin and Jakovo, but this still falls far short of needs. The hotel industry is already struggling with canceled conferences and labor shortages, raising doubts about rapid expansion.
Tourism professionals suggest alternative solutions including utilizing student housing during summer breaks and legalizing private apartment rentals. They emphasize the need to improve existing facilities rather than rushing questionable new construction. Experts also stress the importance of developing attractions beyond the Expo grounds to extend visitor stays and boost spending.
With just over two years remaining, Belgrade faces a race against time to create adequate infrastructure. The coming months will be critical in determining whether the city can successfully transform into a global event destination or risk being overwhelmed by the massive influx of visitors expected for this high-profile international exhibition.
