Provisions for MICE and Health Tourism Included in Greek Spatial Framework

Photo source: HAPCO

Two of Greece’s most promising markets, conference tourism and health tourism, are included in the new Special Spatial Framework for Tourism, currently open for public consultation until September 15.

Drafted jointly by the ministries of Tourism and Environment and Energy, the proposed framework outlines new regulations for land use designated for tourism purposes.

Regarding MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions) tourism, the framework includes the following provisions:

– Development of conference-exhibition tourism in city centers and preferably in developed and developing areas across Greece. Special emphasis is placed on the operation of large-capacity conference centers capable of hosting international events. For this reason, provisions allow for increased building parameters (such as construction allowance per building-to-plot ratio and construction volume) subject to approval by relevant authorities.

– Establishment of conference and exhibition facilities of smaller scale in smaller city centers and other tourist destinations.

– Utilization of existing structures, including large-scale, enclosed athletic facilities built for events like the Olympic Games, for conferences and exhibitions. Incentives are provided for the redevelopment and restoration of older conference and exhibition venues. Similar to large-capacity centers, there is potential for increased building parameters contingent upon approval by relevant authorities.

Health tourism

Medical Tourism

– The new spatial framework for medical tourism includes provisions for the development of medical tourism centers, which will encompass medical infrastructure, accommodations for patients and their companions, and auxiliary facilities. Such centers can be located in general housing areas, provided they adhere to the regulations for tourism accommodations, as well as in tourism-leisure areas.

Spa and Thermal Tourism

– Spa and thermal tourism centers are permitted in areas with recognized and registered thermal natural resources, according to the relevant registry accumulated by the Tourism Ministry. Protective zones will be established for these thermal resources, with specific protection provisions for each zone. These provisions will include restrictions on allowed land usage within the zones, defined by Local and Special Spatial Plans.

Wellness Tourism

– Greece’s coastal spatial framework should support the development of thalassotherapy infrastructure and provide for adequate locations where such facilities can be established. City planning should also facilitate the creation of spas and thalassotherapy centers, whether standalone or in conjunction with 4- and 5-star hotel developments. Additionally, there should be provisions for utilizing seaside and beach areas to support thalassotherapy centers.