Melbourne has won the right to host the 2007 World Swimming Championships.

Its successful bid to host the event was announced at the opening ceremony of this year's championships in Barcelona.

Melbourne won the most votes when FINA's 21 delegates decided between bids also put forward by Rio de Janeiro and Dubai about 10pm (AEST) on Saturday night.

It will be held over two weeks in the first quarter of 2007, with the final date to be determined.

It is expected to generate up to $100 million in economic benefits and create 2000 jobs in Victoria.

About 2500 athletes from around the globe will attend the championships, as well as about 12,000 tourists.

Victorian Sports Minister Justin Madden, in Barcelona for the result, hailed the decision.

"It's an outstanding result for the state of Victoria," Mr Madden told AAP from Barcelona.

"It reinforces our reputation for being an event and sport capital. It will also be a great economic fillip."

The Melbourne Sports and Aquatic Centre in Albert Park will host the championships which includes five aquatic disciplines of swimming, diving, water polo, synchronised swimming and open water events.

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