Global integrated events company GL events has been selected to provide temporary infrastructure for the 17th Conference of the Parties (COP17) to the United Nations Convention to Combat Desertification (UNCCD), scheduled to take place in Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia, from 17–28 August 2026. The major international conference is expected to attract nearly 10,000 delegates from more than 190 countries under the theme “Restore Nature, Revive Hope.”
The Municipality of Ulaanbaatar awarded the contract to GL events following an international tender and a three-stage selection process. The project will involve the installation of approximately 44,500 square metres of temporary structures on the outskirts of the Mongolian capital to accommodate conference facilities, meeting areas, and delegate services.
GL events received the official award letter on 11 February 2026 and has already begun preparations to deploy operational teams for the project. The company brings significant experience to the assignment, having supported 11 COP conferences between 2011 and 2024. Most recently, it delivered infrastructure for COP16 held in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.
Olivier Ginon, Chairman and CEO of GL events Group, said the contract reflects the confidence placed in the company’s expertise in supporting large-scale international events. He expressed appreciation to the Municipality of Ulaanbaatar and noted that the company will work closely with local authorities to ensure the event meets the highest global standards.
COP17 will serve as a major international platform for governments, organisations, and stakeholders to discuss strategies to combat desertification, promote sustainable land management, and address the global challenges of land degradation and climate change.
With its experience in delivering infrastructure for large-scale global summits, GL events is expected to play a key role in ensuring the successful execution of COP17 in Mongolia.
