Dallas-Fort Worth Metroplex Shines as the World Cup Kicks Off

Soccer fans across the globe have eagerly awaited the 2026 FIFA World Cup and have filled hotels across the United States. Nearly 28 million rooms were sold in the first week alone, with thousands of fans surging into host cities – including the Dallas-Fort Worth Metroplex.

Arlington was already bathed in bright orange on Sunday, June 14, as Dutch fans paraded through the streets during the first “Orange Fanwalk” of the tournament, and the Dallas area will host nine games in total.  

“The entire metro has prepared for this for years, and we’re ready to receive visitors from dozens of countries,” says Steven Jones, Senior Business Engagement Manager with Grapevine Economic Development. “Organizations across North Texas have been working to ensure the right infrastructure is in place while supporting local businesses so they can take advantage of the increased tourism.”

Whether you’re planning to attend watch parties or the games themselves, you’re in for a good time. Here’s how the region is creating positive experiences for visitors without disrupting locals. 

DFW Opens Nine New Gates in Terminal C

Dallas-Fort Worth International Airport (DFW) is preparing for an influx of passenger traffic during the World Cup. While the region typically welcomes 8.5 million visitors per day, there could be up to 10 million visitors per day during World Cup games.

Just days before kickoff, DFW opened nine gates in Terminal C. This project includes four new gates and five reconstructed gates, all designed for maximum efficiency with advanced technology.  

Terminal C is one of the busiest terminals in the United States, with nearly 200 departures per day. As passenger traffic increases during the World Cup, the airport will be better prepared to accommodate visitors and provide a safe, comfortable experience.

Anyone who flies into DFW lands in Grapevine, and the community is immediately accessible from the airport. Positive experiences upon arrival in the Dallas metro can create lasting good impressions throughout the trip. 

Local Restaurants are Celebrating With Events and Deals

Many Grapevine restaurants are planning special events to give back to their customers while celebrating the World Cup with domestic and international visitors. Hotel Vin plans to screen every World Cup game while guests order from any of the eight kitchens and various bars they choose. Hoppin’ Grapevine is also hosting watch parties throughout the tournament.

Other businesses getting into the World Cup spirit are Weinberger’s Deli, which is running a tour of International sandwiches, and Bohemian Bull, with matchday specials. Additionally, the Gaylord Texan Resort and Convention Center is an official FIFA accommodation partner, designed to support visitors attending matches and events. 

The Metroplex is Also Hosting More Than 2,000 Journalists 

The World Cup is a 39-day tournament, but media representatives and employees for broadcasting companies could spend up to seven months in Dallas. The Metroplex was selected as the FIFA World Cup 2026™ International Broadcast Centre (IBC), which controls global broadcast operations. The Kay Bailey Hutchison Convention Center Dallas (KBHCCD) will host more than 2,000 media representatives throughout the event and in the months leading up to kickoff.

The broadcasters connect the World Cup to the world. They make sure games can be streamed, recapped, and analyzed in hundreds of languages. These media teams will have their own economic impact in Dallas while the Convention Center shines as a leading facility capable of accommodating large groups for extended periods.

Streamlined broadcasting operations now could put Dallas on the map for future events and conferences, driving more traffic to Grapevine businesses. 

The World Cup Could Have a $2 Billion Economic Impact

Almost any hospitality industry in Grapevine and across the Dallas-Fort Worth Metroplex is trying to participate in World Cup fever. Experts estimate the entire tournament will have a $30 billion economic impact nationally, with a $2 billion impact in North Texas alone.

"When you talk about the economic impact, that's not the city's cash registers that are ringing," said Jim Ross, Mayor of Arlington, in an interview with CBS News. "Those are small businesses. Those are hotels, restaurants, retail stores. Those are communities' cash registers ringing. That's a lot of money coming into our North Texas communities."

Even after the World Cup ends, the infrastructure investments, additional DFW gates, and the growth of small businesses driven by increased customer traffic could benefit the region for years to come. Residents can enjoy extra amenities while visitors enjoy their time in the Metroplex, and encourage others to come to Dallas, Fort Worth, and Grapevine in the future. 

See How Grapevine Supports Residents and Businesses

The City of Grapevine is committed to creating a better place for residents while supporting entrepreneurs, franchisees, and small business owners. Check out the Growing Grapevine podcast, which shares stories about the community and its culture. Use the SizeUp Small Business tools for free industry research. The World Cup can kick off a period of growth that lasts through the year and beyond. The city’s economic development team will be by your side every step of the way.

Contact us to discuss your goals and identify opportunities around the World Cup and other sporting events. We’re happy to identify resources and create a plan to move forward.