As mega-events like the FIFA World Cup gear up to take over cities across the globe — including its long-awaited return to the U.S. — host cities, organizers, and Destination Marketing Organizations (DMOs) are preparing for a unique convergence of scale, complexity, and opportunity.

These events do more than bring in fans. They bring global exposure, economic activity, and the chance to reintroduce a destination to the world. But they also bring challenges — from crowd management and communication to safety, brand activation, and visitor satisfaction.

This is where interactive touchpoints, digital signage, and mobile engagement shine — transforming operations into experiences, while unlocking new revenue streams, real-time data, and powerful ways to help visitors explore the destination beyond the stadium.

The Big Challenges for Host Cities & DMOs

While FIFA or the Olympics may be the main event, cities and DMOs know this is about much more than sports. It’s about delivering an unforgettable visit that drives:

• Efficient crowd flow & safety across key locations (stadiums, airports, hotels, downtowns)
• City-wide engagement that draws visitors beyond the game into cultural districts, restaurants, and attractions.
• Sponsor visibility across the destination in dynamic, measurable ways
• Revenue generation through upsells, upgrades, and local business promotions
• Real-time data and insights into visitor movement, interests, and behavior

The Solution: A Connected Ecosystem for Cities, Fans, and DMOs

Interactive Kiosks: Your On-Site Digital Ambassador

Placed throughout venues, hotels, transportation hubs, visitor centers, and city hotspots, self-service kiosks can:

• Offer multilingual wayfinding and real-time transportation updates
• Promote local events, businesses, and attractions based on location or time of day
• Help fans check in or register for city-wide rewards programs or exclusive events
• Provide a digital concierge experience that helps visitors explore more

DMO Use Case: A kiosk in a hotel lobby near the FIFA stadium can guide fans to local breweries, museums, or events in lesser-known neighborhoods — boosting visitation and local spend outside the stadium zone.

Dynamic Digital Signage: Reaching the Masses in Real Time

Signage throughout the city, fan zones, and transit areas becomes a living communication tool:

• Rotate sponsor ads and DMO content dynamically by location or audience segment
• Promote real-time offers like “20% off lunch near Gate 4” or “Live music in the Arts District tonight”
• Display multilingual safety alerts, transport updates, and city info at scale

DMO Use Case: Digital signage can automatically promote featured neighborhoods during off-peak hours or alert fans to available tours and deals — converting foot traffic into measurable economic impact.

Mobile Engagement: The City in Their Pocket

A Progressive Web App (PWA) or branded mobile guide allows visitors to control their experience from anywhere.

• Offer personalized itineraries, rewards, and in-app check-ins across the destination
• Push location-based offers and real-time updates
• Track visitor movement to identify hot spots and areas needing support
• Integrate loyalty programs to encourage repeat visits or extended stays

DMO Use Case: A visitor arriving for the match can scan a QR code in the airport and access a FIFA-branded guide powered by the local DMO — featuring hidden gems, dining options, and interactive walking tours.

More Than a Game: Driving Revenue, Insight, and Engagement

This isn’t just about managing an event — it’s about activating a destination:

• For Cities & DMOs: Increased economic impact, better visibility for local businesses, and actionable visitor data
• For Organizers: Streamlined operations, real-time communication, and reduced strain on personnel
• For Fans: A more connected, informed, and memorable experience
• For Sponsors: Targeted visibility and deeper engagement across multiple digital surfaces

Conclusion: The Future of Destination Engagement Starts Now

Large global events like FIFA offer a rare moment to redefine how cities engage their visitors — and how visitors see the city. When interactive kiosks, signage, and mobile experiences are deployed in sync, they don’t just solve logistical problems — they create a living, breathing destination platform.

Whether you’re a city official, DMO, sponsor, or tech integrator, the opportunity is clear: connect the dots, personalize the experience, and turn one-time visitors into lifelong fans of your destination.

Let’s Talk: True Omni self-service and mobile experience platform has supported events, destinations, and venues across North America. Learn how we can help you prepare your city, boost revenue, and leave a lasting digital legacy when the world comes to your doorstep.