digitalBAU 2026 has impressively reaffirmed its role as the central platform for the digital transformation of the construction industry. With record numbers of exhibitors and visitors, and a clear focus on artificial intelligence, the trade fair in Cologne once again served as a catalyst for the industry.
With significant growth in exhibitors and visitors, digitalBAU 2026 has established itself as the most successful edition to date since its launch in 2020. At the Koelnmesse exhibition centre, around 300 companies presented their solutions for digital planning, construction and operation. In total, some 11,000 trade visitors gathered information on the latest developments in construction software and digital process design – a new record
The event focused on four key themes: the circular economy in construction, digital construction process optimisation, artificial intelligence and digitalisation of existing buildings. AI, in particular, proved to be a defining driver of innovation. Numerous exhibitors demonstrated how data-driven applications, automated processes and intelligent assistance systems are already enabling tangible efficiency gains on construction sites today.
Industry representatives unanimously emphasised the increasing relevance of digital technologies for the competitiveness of the construction industry. Digitalisation, AI and robotics are no longer topics of the future, but are already an integral part of modern construction processes (Pakleppa, ZDB). At the same time, the focus shifted to the question of how these developments can be implemented in practice in a structured and scalable manner (Díaz, BVBS).
The fair’s increasing international character also underscores its growing significance. The proportion of foreign exhibitors rose significantly, whilst companies such as Bentley Systems specifically used the event as a platform for market development and exchange. Major software providers also presented holistic solutions covering the entire building lifecycle, placing a greater focus on AI-supported applications.
In addition to the exhibition, the extensive supporting programme provided further inspiration. On several stages, experts discussed current trends and challenges facing the industry in around 90 presentations. Once again, a particular focus was placed on the potential and limitations of AI in the construction sector. The programme was complemented by award ceremonies and innovative formats such as start-up pitches, which fostered exchange between established companies and young technology providers.
The high level of visitor satisfaction reflects the event’s success: the overwhelming majority rated the trade fair as very good and believe its importance for the industry will continue to grow. Also striking is the comparatively young age profile of the trade visitors, which points to increasing dynamism and a willingness to innovate within the construction industry.
Overall, digitalBAU 2026 clearly demonstrates that the industry is in a phase of accelerated transformation. Digital solutions, and artificial intelligence in particular, are increasingly becoming a decisive factor for efficiency, sustainability and competitiveness – and are making the trade fair a key driver of the digital construction revolution.
