- Date
- 28–30 September 2025
- Venue
- Auditorium Parco della Musica
- Location
- Rome, Italy
WTTC’s annual Global Summit is the most influential event in the Travel & Tourism calendar - a platform where the public and private sectors come together to shape the future of the industry.
On the 28–30 September 2025, the 25th Global Summit was held in Rome, Italy, at the Auditorium Parco della Musica Ennio Morricone, one of the most prestigious cultural and performing arts venues in the world, providing a world-class setting for strategic dialogue, innovative ideas, and cultural exchange.
This landmark event brought together global Travel & Tourism leaders, for three days of impactful discussion and collaboration.
For more information on our summit, please contact summit@wttc.org.
You can follow us on social media to get the latest news about the Global Summit Rome under the hashtag #GSRome.
With thanks to our event host and partners.
Global Summit Host
WTTC in association with the Ministry of Tourism, the Italian National Tourist Board (ENIT), and with the participation of the Municipality of Rome and the Lazio Region, is proud to host this milestone summit in the Eternal City.
A global hub of heritage, innovation, and culture, Rome offers the perfect setting to explore the future of travel while reflecting on the enduring power of destinations to inspire, connect, and transform.
Programme
Theme: La Grande Bellezza (del Viaggio) | The Great Beauty (of Travel).
Sunday 28 September
5 sessions
- Global Leaders' DialogueInvitation only
- Executive Committee Reception & MeetingInvitation only
- Members' Circle MeetingInvitation only
- Welcome Reception
Monday 29 September
18 sessions
- WTTC Annual General MeetingTeatro Studio Borgna
- Opening Ceremony
- Chair Handover
- Opening Speech
Tuesday 30 September
13 sessions
- Innovation & Long-Term Sustainable Growth in ItalySession 4 · Anchored In Excellence · Keynote
- Connected to the TravellerSession 4 · Anchored In Excellence · Panel
- Chairman's Interview: Torstein HagenSession 4 · Anchored In Excellence · Fireside
- Major Events: The Destination PerspectiveSession 4 · Anchored In Excellence · Panel
The Global Leaders' Dialogue brings together ministers and CEOs in a moderated exchange. Leaders will share their priorities and concerns in order to identify opportunities for mutual support and greater public-private partnership. The session will be divided into two dialogues: the first will focus on issues affecting Europe, in particular, and the second will take a more global view.
Leaders connect in the foyer areas. An open opportunity for leaders to meet with each other and connect on issues of their choosing. This networking opportunity has been made available to enable leaders to make lasting and meaningful connections, drive partnerships and foster collaboration, for a stronger and more united Travel & Tourism sector.
Banda dell'Arma dei Carabinieri Italian National Anthem
Speakers
H.E. Giorgia MeloniPrime Minister, Italy
Roberto GualtieriMayor of Rome
Daniela SantanchèMinister of Tourism, Italy
The World Travel & Tourism Council's current Chair, Greg O'Hara, hands over to the Chair-elect, Manfredi Lefebvre.
Speakers
Greg O'HaraFounder & a Senior Managing Director, Certares
Manfredi Lefebvre d'OvidioChairman, Heritage Group/ Abercrombie & Kent Travel Group
Speakers
Gloria GuevaraInterim CEO, World Travel & Tourism Council
As we gather in the Eternal City, we are joined by some of Italy's most prominent and celebrated cultural ambassadors to share their perspectives on why the country's concept of La Grande Bellezza remains a beacon of excellence. From world-class hospitality and culinary artistry to the emotional power of music and heritage, how has Italy enthralled global travellers for centuries and how can it maintain its competitiveness into the future?
Speakers
Andrea BocelliTenor
Arrigo CiprianiFounder, Harry's Bar
Stefano AversaPresident, Andrea Bocelli Foundation
Tommaso CernoDirector, Il Tempo
As the vision for WTTC was developed in the 1980s, Marriott International's Chairman Emeritus J.W. Marriott, Jr. played a pivotal role in shaping the organisation's purpose and mandate as Marriott International's then CEO. Marriott also became an important founding member. Now, over 30 years on and with over 1.7 million rooms across 143 countries/territories and around 250 million Marriott Bonvoy members globally, Marriott International's current President & CEO sits down with the WTTC Chair to discuss his views on the future of hospitality, luxury travel, and the wider Travel & Tourism sector.
Speakers
Anthony CapuanoPresident & CEO, Marriott International- Greg O'HaraFounder & a Senior Managing Director, Certares
From emerging destinations to shifting traveller expectations, we take a wide-angle look at the future growth of Travel & Tourism as well as the opportunities and challenges framing the path forward. As Travel & Tourism continues to evolve, what big ideas will determine a more sustainable and inclusive future for both people and planet?
Speakers
Jane SunCEO, Trip.com Group
Jerry InzerilloGroup CEO, Diriyah Company
Federico J. González TejeraCEO, Radisson Hotel Group & Board Director, Louvre Hotels Group
Guy JohnsonAnchor, Bloomberg
This discussion between the Italian Minister of Tourism, Interim CEO of WTTC, and the newly elected Secretary General of UN Tourism offers a unique perspective on the forces fuelling travel and details those which will fuel the new leadership of UN Tourism. The key to the continued growth and success of tourism lies in effective public-private partnerships. How can global organisations better support the public and private sectors to collaborate for a more resilient future?
Speakers
Shaikha Al NowaisSecretary-General-elect, UN Tourism- Daniela SantanchèMinister of Tourism, Italy
- Gloria GuevaraInterim CEO, World Travel & Tourism Council
Travel & Tourism is projected to contribute $16.5 trillion to the global economy in 2035. To achieve this demand, transportation across land, sea, and air will play a pivotal role. From new traveller behaviours to global shifts towards more sustainability and better digital innovation, how is mobility being redefined?
Speakers
Pierfrancesco VagoExecutive Chairman, Cruise Division, MSC Group
Tony FernandesCEO, Capital A/AirAsia
Luca Cordero di MontezemoloChairman, Italo S.p.A.
Kelly CraigheadCEO, Vertimas
Big visions in small doses; we gather insights and key learnings from different industries. Through this series of quick-fire addresses, leaders share short, sharp insights on what's next in Travel & Tourism.
Speakers
Paul GriffithsCEO, Dubai Airports
Marco TronconeCEO, Aeroporti di Roma
Decius Valmorbida MenezesPresident: Travel, Amadeus
IHG Hotels & Resorts is one of the world's leading hospitality companies with a porffolio of iconic brands in over 6,700 destinations around the world. IHG has surpassed one million open hotel rooms globally with over 2,000 hotels in the pipeline, signalling its rapid growth and widespread presence. In this exclusive interview, the Global CEO sits down with the WTTC Chair to share how the company is preparing for the future of travel, balancing innovation with guest experience, and leading the industry through a changing global landscape.
Speakers
Elie MaaloufGlobal CEO, IHG Hotels & Resorts- Manfredi Lefebvre d'OvidioChairman, Heritage Group/ Abercrombie & Kent Travel Group
With continued global expansion and evolutions, Accor Group has ambitions plans for its future. In this exclusive fireside, the WTTC Chair sits down with the Group CEO of Accor Hotels to discuss the group's expansion plans, tourism's role in global employment, and the role of ESG in the group's growth.
Speakers
Sébastien BazinGroup Chairman & CEO, Accor- Greg O'HaraFounder & a Senior Managing Director, Certares
Rail travel has picked up speed as leisure travellers ease into slow travel. Rail is being reimagined as a journey of comfort and escapism. On luxury train journeys, slow travel meets fine dining and exclusive design amidst breathtaking landscapes. Tracing the line between heritage and innovation, what is the outlook for the vehicle of choice for discerning travellers?
Speakers
Paolo BarlettaCEO, Arsenale S.p.A.
Thang PhanCo-Founder & Business Development Manager, Vietnam Luxury Express
Tim LittlerPresident & Founder, Golden Eagle Luxury Trains
Tristan ArmstrongCEO, Rocky Mountaineer
Maria ShollenbargerTravel Editor, HTSI magazine by the Financial Times
With more travellers prioritising their wellbeing, it's no surprise that predictions estimate the global wellness industry will be worth around $1.35 trillion in 20281. What was once an optional addition to a holiday has become the core driver of travel spend as more people seek experiences that nurture their minds as well as their bodies and souls. How is the Travel & Tourism sector creating transformative and holistic experiences that blend destination discovery with health and self- discovery?
Speakers
Audrey HendleyPresident, American Express Travel
Massimo CaputiPresident & Owner, Terme & Spa Italia
Nerio AlessandriPresident, Technogym
Andrea AbodiMinister for Sport & Youth, Italy
Andrea GrisdaleCEO & Sole Founder, IC Bellagio
Luxury fashion houses and travel brands create unforgettable experiences. The most successful of these brands offer curated, high-quality products and experiences all woven together by excellent storytelling. From flagship boutiques to fashionable takeovers of exclusive beach clubs, how is luxury fashion reshaping the aesthetics of travel? mark/
Speakers
Leonardo FerragamoExecutive Chairman, Salvatore Ferragamo Group
Desirée BollierChair & Global Chief Merchant, The Bicester Collection
Benjamin VuchotCEO, Hongkong & Shanghai Hotels
Caroline BetetaPresident & CEO, Visit California
Ivana JelinicCEO, ENIT S.p.A.- Maria ShollenbargerTravel Editor, HTSI magazine by the Financial Times
In a sector that currently supports over 350 million jobs, contributes $11 trillion to global GDP, and is forecast to create over 90 million new jobs by 2035, the success of Travel & Tourism businesses is more important than ever before. In this panel discussion, the leaders behind some of Travel & Tourism's most successful entrepreneurial ventures discuss the most pressing matters in business today. What are their views on partnership and entrepreneurship for the future success of travel?
Speakers
William E. HeineckeFounder & Chairman, Minor Hotel Group
Elisabetta FabriPresident & CEO, Starhotels Group
Fabio GiannottiGeneral Manager, Alpemare Beach Club
Nathania ZeviAnchor, RAI
Effective tourism policies are integral to supporting a more sustainable and inclusive future for this sector. In an increasingly connected world, destinations should work together for the future benefit of tourism globally. How can public sector tourism leaders collaborate to enable more aligned global tourism policies and smoother movement of people?
Speakers
H.E. Daniela SantanchèMinister of Tourism, Italy
H.E. Ahmed Al-KhateebMinister of Tourism, Saudi Arabia
H.E. Rosario Sánchez GrauSecretary of State for Tourism, Spain- Nathania ZeviAnchor, RAI
Leaders connect in the foyer areas. An open opportunity for leaders to meet with each other and connect on issues of their choosing. This networking opportunity has been made available to enable leaders to make lasting and meaningful connections, drive partnerships and foster collaboration, for a stronger and more united Travel & Tourism sector.
For Italy to continue to excel, critical investment in infrastructure & innovation will set the tone for a more prosperous future. In this keynote, the Minister of Economy & Finance discusses the investment ecosystem and its impact on the country's future.
Speakers
Giancarlo GiorgettiMinister of Economy & Finance, Italy
The future of Travel & Tourism is powered by innovation, personalisation, and smart collaboration. AI and other technologies are transforming the way we search, plan, book, and experience travel. What are the tools being created and refined to enhance the traveller journey?
Speakers
Gaurav BhatnagarCo-Founder, TBO.com
Julie ShainockGlobal Managing Director - Travel, Transport & Hospitality Industry, Microsoft
Andrea AloriPartner, Bain & Company
Fr Paolo BenantiPresident of the AI Commission for Information & Member of the UN Advisory Board on AI- Guy JohnsonAnchor, Bloomberg
Viking Cruises will reportedly have 112 river ships in 2028 and 23 ocean and expedition ships in 2031, underscoring important expansion in a highly valuable traveller segment. In this exclusive fireside, the WTTC Chair sits down with entrepreneurial founder and chair of Viking Holding to discuss the 55+ traveller and his vision of the future of the cruise industry in Europe and beyond.
Speakers
Torstein HagenFounder & Chairman, Viking Cruises- Manfredi Lefebvre d'OvidioChairman, Heritage Group/ Abercrombie & Kent Travel Group
Italy is a respected host of iconic events – from the Rome 1960 Olympics and Expo Milano 2015 to the upcoming Milano-Cortina 2026 Winter Games and the 38th America's Cup in 2027. This sets the stage for rich insights into how destinations can keep innovating to attract visitors. What role do major events play in keeping the destination's tourism offering enticing and competitive?
Speakers
- Daniela SantanchèMinister of Tourism, Italy
Archbishop Mons. Rino FisichellaPro-Prefect, Dicastery for Evangelisation, Roman Catholic Church
Giovanni MalagòPresident, Fondazione Milano Cortina 2026
Anant SinghMember, International Olympic Committee
Alessandro OnoratoCouncillor for Major Events, Sports Tourism & Fashion, Municipality of Rome
Elena PalazzoCouncillor for Tourism, Environment, Sport, Climate Change, Energy Transition & Sustainability, Lazio Region- Guy JohnsonAnchor, Bloomberg
Large events and tourism thrive on connection, passion, and shared experiences. Across destinations, sectors, and industries, partnership and collaboration are the powerful engines that can turn these events into economic and social successes. From business to leisure events, how can we turn the energy of a single event into a lasting legacy for tourism, communities, and future generations?
Speakers
Miguel SanzDirector General, TURESPAÑA
Ross McAuleyDirector General, Play Qiddiya City
Di BainChair, Tourism Western Australia
Bernardo Cueto RiestraSecretary of Tourism, Quintana Roo Tourism Board- Guy JohnsonAnchor, Bloomberg
Fincantieri has consistently pushed the boundaries of design and technology, creating ships that not only enhance the passenger experience but also prioritise efficiency and improved sustainability. In this exclusive fireside, the WTTC Chair sits down with the CEO of Fincantieri – Europe's largest shipbuilder – to discuss the impact of sustainability and technology on the long-term future of the cruise industry.
Speakers
Pierroberto FolgieroCEO, Fincantieri- Manfredi Lefebvre d'OvidioChairman, Heritage Group/ Abercrombie & Kent Travel Group
Big visions in small doses; we gather insights and key learnings from different industries. Through this series of quick-fire addresses, leaders share short, sharp insights on examples of excellence in Travel & Tourism.
Speakers
Matthew UpchurchFounder & CEO, Virtuoso
Hashil Al MahrouqiCEO, OMRAN Group
Gabriele BurgioPresident & CEO, Alpitour World
Francesco LollobrigidaMinister of Agriculture, Italy
Two of Italy's key agencies for investment highlight the investment landscape and the country's plans for strategic growth.
Speakers
Bernardo MattarellaCEO, INVITALIA
Luca AndreoliCEO, Difesa Servizi
The ocean covers over 70% of our planet and is the world's largest carbon sink, playing a fundamental role in stabilising life on Earth. It is also a centrepiece of tourism. Today, nearly half of all tourism is coastal, yet this vital resource is at risk. WTTC's Ocean Campaign will celebrate the ocean's profound influence on climate, culture, and tourism through human-centred storytelling that uplifts traditions, destinations, and communities.
Speakers
Gloria FluxàVice-Chairman & CSO, Iberostar Group
Nature-based solutions provide a critical resource in tackling the climate crisis and, thus, ultimately ensuring that the environments on which we depend are restored and protected. Seeing nature as an ally, in what ways are tourism businesses protecting nature and supporting the communities who host visitors for some of the most incredible experiences of their lives?
Speakers
Wynter Boipuso MmolotsiMinister of Environment & Tourism, Botswana
Keith VincentCEO, Wilderness Destinations
Hunter Lee SoikFounder & Executive Chairperson, ensō group- Kelly CraigheadCEO, Vertimas
Culture and heritage are essential pillars of meaningful travel. Tourism represents a powerful means of preserving, celebrating, and elevating cultural identities, while supporting local communities. How is culture-driven travel creating lasting value for both visitors and hosts?
Speakers
Alessandra NecciDirector, Estense Gallery
Olga KefalogianniMinister of Tourism, Greece
Francesco CacciapuotiChief Sales Officer, Trenitalia
Katie BriscoeCEO, MMGY Global
Speakers
- Gloria GuevaraInterim CEO, World Travel & Tourism Council
- Manfredi Lefebvre d'OvidioChairman, Heritage Group/ Abercrombie & Kent Travel Group
Ignazio La RussaPresident, Italian Senate
Watch the sessions
Videos of the Rome Global Summit sessions. Share your experience with #GSRome.
WTTC Global Summit 2025 - Rome, Italy | La Grande Bellezza
WTTC Global Summit 2025 - Rome, Italy | La Grande Bellezza- Day 1 · Monday 29 September
Opening Ceremony & Opening Speech01:43
Panel: La Grande Bellezza23:47
Fireside Chat: Chairman's Interview - Anthony Capuano16:01
Panel: Focus on the Future24:50
Spotlight: New Leadership in Tourism16:46
Industry Deep Dive: Transport Across Land, Sea & Air26:09
In A Flash: Innovations for the future25:31
Fireside Chat: Chairman's Interview - Elie Maalouf9:47
Fireside Chat: Chairman's Interview - Sébastien Bazin18:23
Land Cruising: The Rail Revolution26:54
Panel: Health, Wellness & Travel25:28
Panel: Luxury Fashion & Travel31:36
Panel: Entrepreneurial Leadership in Tourism33:27
Bridging Continents: Collaborative Tourism Policies For a Connected Future41:11
- Day 2 · Tuesday 30 September
Keynote In A Flash: Innovation & Long-Term Sustainable Growth in Italy6:46
Panel: Connected To The Traveller28:34
Fireside Chat: Chairman's Interview - Torstein Hagen23:40
Major Events: The Destination Perspective45:52
Major Events: Planning for the Future21:37
Fireside Chat: Chairman's Interview - Pierroberto Folgiero22:29
Keynotes In A Flash: Examples Of Excellence28:03
Keynotes In A Flash: Investing In Italy16:57
Oceans Campaign Launch4:34
Panel: Guardians27:10
Panel: Rooted in Culture30:39
Closing Ceremony24:36
Photos
Photo albums on Flickr, day by day.
Thanks to Our Sponsors
WTTC has a variety of sponsorship packages available for the WTTC Global Summits. For more information, please contact membershipandcommercial@wttc.org to learn about how your organisation can be at the forefront of our Travel & Tourism’s showpiece event.
Global Summit Host
WTTC Partners
WTTC Strategic Partners
WTTC Sustainability Data Partner
ENIT Official Mobility Partner
ENIT Leading Partner
ENIT Official Sponsor
ENIT Contributing Sponsors
Interested in WTTC events?
If you are interested in any of the following, please contact us: hosting a WTTC event, sponsoring a WTTC event, speaking at a WTTC event, media coverage, or having a WTTC representative speaking at my event.
See Highlights From Previous Summits
WTTC hosts a Global Summit each year in a different destination. You can learn more about our other summits, as well as watch videos and highlights, from the cards below.
