Here’s a name in the South African Expo scene you’ve probably heard of: the Sandton Convention Centre. It’s a cornerstone of Johannesburg’s event ecosystem that hosts many vibrant events like Decorex and the AI Expo, attracting thousands of important visitors each year.
In this article, we’ll highlight some of the upcoming Sandton Convention Centre events, share some practical venue tips, and walk you through what makes this venue so special.
Why Sandton Convention Centre Is A Go-to Venue
Gauteng is home to several event spaces, but there are a few unique things the Sandton Convention Centre has going for it:
Prime Location

Sandton is world-renowned as an affluent financial hub in South Africa. With 7-10 percent of South Africa’s major economic, consulting, and banking firms listing it as their postal address, it naturally offers visitors easy access to hotels, transport, and other business amenities. The Gautrain is particularly beneficial, and O.R. Tambo International Airport is close by.
Modern Venue Infrastructure
Moving inside the venue, the Sandton Convention Centre impresses with its modern infrastructure and services. Think built-in rigging, AV systems, climate control, seamless electrical access, and a supporting team.
Flexible Event Space
The venue also boasts about 22,000 square metres of event space across multiple levels. Different room sizes are available for different purposes. This allows multiple show events to be held simultaneously.
Top Events At Sandton Convention Centre

Let’s explore some key annual expos that call the Sandton Convention Centre “home”. These illustrate the variety and scale of exhibitions you might consider attending or exhibiting in:
| Event | Dates | Focus | Why It Matters |
|---|---|---|---|
| AI Expo Africa | 29-31 October 2025 | AI, smart tech, enterprise, government | AI Expo Africa is the largest AI expo on the continent and sits at the forefront of the African tech scene. The event is slated for its ninth edition in October 2026. |
| Finance Indaba | 16 October 2025 | Banking, fintech, finance industry | A key gathering of decision-makers and influencers in Africa’s growing finance sector. Finance Indaba has been held since 2016 and is well-known amongst local finance professionals. |
| Meetings Africa | 23-25 February 2026 | Meetings, incentives, conventions, events | This Sandton business events show unites professionals from Africa’s business events sector. It has its own educational day and attracts many corporate attendees. |
| Decorex Joburg | July 30 – August 2, 2026 | Interior design, hospitality, home décor and furnishing | A household name for many across Cape Town and Johannesburg, Decorex is one of South Africa’s largest expos. Over 28,000 people attend the Johannesburg event across four days. |
| Coatings For Africa | 24 – 26 June 2026 | Paint, coatings, industrial finishes | Coatings For Africa is the ideal show for chemical, materials, and paint manufacturing companies in South Africa. It forms part of an international series of similar shows with a global reputation. |
| South Africa International Industrial Expo | 23-25 October 2025 | Industrial equipment, government | As South Africa’s second-largest international trading partner, Chinese companies offer plenty of trade potential. This show features more than 200+ Chinese industrial manufacturers looking to expand their local footprint. |
| The Business Show | 2-3 September 2026 | Entrepreneurship, general | The Business Show is a gateway event with something for every South African entrepreneur and business owner. It’s a classic expo built on the premise of face-to-face business. |
| Manufacturing Indaba | 14-15 July 2026 | Manufacturing | Another classic Sandton event is Manufacturing Indaba, where businesses can discover and explore new partnerships. Both local SMEs and large international companies take part. |
| Reside Summit | 20-21 May 2026 | Residential, property investment | The premier annual national event for the residential sector, Reside hosts a range of professionals you can connect with for business success. |
Make The Most Of Your Event In Sandton

If you’re attending Sandton Convention Centre events as a visitor or attendee, here are some practical tips to make your experience smoother:
- Arrive early: Major shows kick off with keynote sessions; lines at registration can get long.
- Transport: Using Gautrain (the rapid rail link) plus shuttles or ride-share is often faster than driving in peak traffic. SCC is fairly accessible from O.R. Tambo Airport via transport routes.
- On-site navigation: Pick up a floor map and plan which halls or tracks you want to visit.
- Take breaks & stay comfortable: Exhibitions can be large. Wear comfortable shoes, carry water, and schedule downtime.
- Networking mindset: Bring plenty of business cards, leverage meeting lounges, and engage with exhibitors even before the show via the event’s digital platform (if available).
- Evening in Sandton: Sandton City, Nelson Mandela Square, and nearby malls/restaurants make it easy to mix business, food, and relaxation.
Seal The Deal In Sandton With An Unbeatable Expo Stand
If there’s one thing Sandton Convention Centre translates to, it’s access. Attend a show here, and you’ll open the doors to Africa’s business leaders, innovation ecosystems, and growing markets. Whether you’re attending or exhibiting, Sandton Convention Centre offers a versatile, high-quality set of events where you can make an impact.
Whether you’re heading to Johannesburg for a show or planning your own event, Booth Exhibits™ is ready to simplify that journey. From global design support to local logistics and stand delivery, we make events seamless for you.
What is done in a convention centre?
A convention centre hosts social and business gatherings like expos, conferences, and symposiums.
Where is Sandton Convention Centre?
Sandton Convention Centre is located on Maude Street, Sandton.
Why is Sandton called Sandton?
The word u0022Sandtonu0022 is a combination of the names of its two former suburbs: u0022Sandownu0022 and u0022Bryanstonu0022.
Who owns Gallagher Convention Centre?
Gallagher Convention Centre is owned by Hosken Consolidated Investments.