Security at the Song Contest
Preparations
The City of Vienna and the Austrian Broadcasting Corporation (ORF), in its role as the organizer of the Eurovision Song Contest, have developed a comprehensive security plan for this mega-event. In close coordination with the Vienna Police, the Austrian Federal Ministry of the Interior, and the Wiener Stadthalle, it covers every phase of the music event:
- Arrival and security for artists, delegations, media representatives, and fans
- Running the live shows and overseeing the official public viewing areas
- Managing the flow of visitors as they leave after the grand final
Vienna’s many years of experience with major events, conferences, and state visits will help identify and minimize risks at an early stage.
Security measures for the live shows
Airport-level security standards will be in place at the Wiener Stadthalle. Everyone entering the venue will undergo a thorough security check. This includes screenings, sniffer dogs, and surveillance cameras. Video equipment will also be thoroughly inspected. Every day, 500 security personnel will be deployed around the Wiener Stadthalle, in uniform and in plainclothes.
A strict no-bag policy will apply. Only small personal items such as a cell phone, wallet, keys, etc., as well as transparent containers no larger than an A6 sheet of paper, will be permitted. Bags, backpacks, belt bags, and purses will not be allowed into the venue.
Cybersecurity
The digital realm will also be strictly monitored. All tickets will be personalized and only valid electronically on a mobile phone—a screenshot of the ticket will not suffice. Entry will not bew possible without a valid ID. The ticket’s QR code will only appear about 48 hours before the respective show.
The technical infrastructure of the Wiener Stadthalle will be given special protection. This also includes the supply chains. Security-related activities have been closely monitored for months, and information has been shared within the Cybersecurity Coordination Group.
FAQ – Frequently Asked Questions
How safe will the Eurovision Song Contest 2026 be?
For the 70th Eurovision Song Contest 2026 in Vienna, a comprehensive security concept has been developed. This includes meticulous airport-level checks at the Wiener Stadthalle, ongoing information sharing between all the security organizations involved, advance risk assessment and minimization, and cybersecurity measures. This will ensure that the world’s largest music competition is a vibrant and safe event.
What am I allowed to bring to the live shows at the Wiener Stadthalle?
To enter the Wiener Stadthalle, you must go through an airport-level security check. A strict no-bag policy will be in force. Only small personal items such as a cell phone, wallet, keys, etc., as well as transparent containers no larger than an A6 sheet of paper, will be permitted. Bags, backpacks, belt bags, and purses will not be allowed into the venue.
- Roland-Rainer-Platz 1, 1150 Wien
- www.stadthalle.com
Accessibility
no steps
Parking spaces for people with disabilities
on Sorbaitgasse and in the main car park of the Stadthalle
Wheelchair accessible restroom available.
Special wheelchair seats in halls D and F. Inductive hearing system in Hall F.
Halls D and F are wheelchair-accessible.
