- Status
- Last
- Date
- 7–9 October 2026
- Venue
- Mediterranean Conference Centre
- Location
- Valletta, Malta
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 7–9 October 2026, the 26th Global Summit was held in Valletta, Malta, at the Mediterranean Conference Centre.
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 Malta under the hashtags #WTTC #GSMalta #WTTCSummit.
With thanks to our event host and partners.
Global Summit Host
Malta and its capital, Valletta, offer a compelling setting where layered history, Mediterranean character, and creative energy converge, inviting visitors to explore the future of travel while experiencing a destination shaped by resilience, exchange, and timeless cultural richness.
Programme
Wednesday 7 October
8 sessions
- Press ConferenceSaluting BatteryInvitation only
- Global Leaders DialogueTeatru ManoelInvitation only
- Annual General MeetingHotel IntercontinentalWTTC members only
- Members CircleHotel IntercontinentalNon-ExCom members & alternates
Thursday 8 October
23 sessions
- Malta OpeningMediterranean Conference Centre (MCC), Valletta
- Opening CeremonyMediterranean Conference Centre (MCC), Valletta
- Malta WelcomeMediterranean Conference Centre (MCC), Valletta
- WTTC Welcome
Friday 9 October
17 sessions
- How to Shape The Opportunity AheadMediterranean Conference Centre (MCC), Valletta
- Day 2 WelcomeMediterranean Conference Centre (MCC), Valletta
- Navigating the Travel Landscape Trends, Opportunities & Strategic ResponseMediterranean Conference Centre (MCC), Valletta
- The Cost of Inaction Resetting Investment to Safeguard the FutureMediterranean Conference Centre (MCC), Valletta
Business attire The Annual General Meeting brings together WTTC Members to conduct the formal business of the organisation – reviewing the year, setting the course ahead and exercising the governance that underpins everything WTTC does.
An invitation-only gathering for WTTC Members and alternates providing a dedicated forum for member engagement, peer exchange and early access to Summit themes ahead of the main programme.
WTTC’s Executive Committee will review strategic priorities, key organisational matters, performance, major initiatives and strategic session.
The official welcome event for all Summit delegates and media partners. An opportunity to connect with fellow attendees from across the global Travel & Tourism community against the backdrop of one of Malta's most iconic waterfront settings, as the Summit programme begins.
Malta has been at the forefront of civilisation for millennia; it’s a destination that celebrates the culture, history and warmth of the Mediterranean. This opening ceremony celebrates our host for the world’s most important gathering for the future of Travel & Tourism.
One in five Maltese jobs depends on Travel & Tourism. The sector contributes 16.6% of GDP. For Malta, this is not an abstract policy agenda – it is the lived reality of an economy that has made tourism a national priority and built sustained results around it. Malta’s leadership shares the island’s vision for the next chapter: a model built on quality, sustainability and year-round value – and the partnerships required to get there.
Speakers
H.E. Dr. Robert AbelaPrime Minister of Malta, Government of Malta
H.E. Dr. Ian BorgDeputy Prime Minister and Minister for Health, Government of Malta
H.E. Dr. Jo Etienne AbelaMinister for Tourism, Government of Malta
Carlo MicallefCEO, Malta Tourism Authority
Manfredi Lefebvre d'Ovidio, Chairman, WTTCManfredi Lefebvre d'Ovidio, Chairman, WTTC
Speakers
Manfredi Lefebvre d'OvidioChairman, WTTC
Gloria Guevara, President & CEO, WTTC ... FUTU[RE]SET
Speakers
Gloria GuevaraPresident & CEO, WTTC
The global economy is entering a period of profound transformation. Geopolitical uncertainty, shifting trade patterns, new technologies, changing consumer behaviour and evolving investment priorities are redefining growth across markets. This session will explore what the next global economic cycle means for Travel & Tourism – where growth will come from, how investment and consumer demand are shifting, and what governments and businesses must do together to remain competitive and resilient.
Speakers
Nouriel RoubiniChairman & CEO, Roubini Macro Associates, LLC
Spain has long been one of the world’s leading tourism destinations, in 2025 it welcomed 130 billion dollars in international spend. 59% of Spain's travel earnings is from international travellers. With these figures it is particularly fitting that Spain is now the new home of the World Travel & Tourism Council, bringing WTTC even closer to one of the world’s most dynamic and influential tourism economies. Today, the Spanish Minister for Tourism joins us to explore where Spain sees the greatest opportunities for investment, how it is attracting capital and innovation, and how the country intends to shape the tourism economy of the future.
Speakers
H.E. Jordi HereuMinister of Industry and Tourism, Government of Spain
In the latest WTTC EIR, the US remained the biggest economy in the sector, but its premier position is no longer guaranteed. Europe’s economic power was also reflected with increasing growth and significant investment planned to meet ever increasing demand. However we are here to determine where future growth will be. Two perspectives from titans of the sector, one from the US, one European-based but both with global reach.
Speakers
Christopher J. NassettaPresident & CEO; Former WTTC Chairman, Hilton
Pierfrancesco VagoExecutive Chairman, MSC Group- Manfredi Lefebvre d'OvidioChairman, WTTC
As international travel continues to grow, the border experience must become faster, smarter and more secure. Digital identity, biometrics and emerging technologies have the potential to transform the traveller journey. This is why it has become a top priority for the WTTC. This session will explore solutions already implemented around the world, such as Global Entry, automated e-gates, biometric boarding and trusted traveller programmes, and what lessons can be learned from them.
Speakers
Paul GriffithsCEO; WTTC Vice-Chair Technology, Dubai Airports
Andrea AloriPartner, Travel & Aviation, Bain & Company
Nikos MertzanidisExecutive Director - Europe, Cruise Lines International Association
Diane SabatinoExecutive Assistant Commissioner, Office of Field Operations, U.S. Customs and Border Protection
Jonathan SamuelsBroadcaster, Sky News
Artificial intelligence is already affecting every stage of the trArtificial intelligence is already affecting every stage of the travel journey, from how people search for inspiration and compare destinations, to how they plan, book, pay, navigate and experience a trip. It is also transforming how companies operate, price, market, serve customers and make decisions. This session will explore how AI is affecting Travel & Tourism today and where the biggest opportunities and risks lie. We will also examine what leaders need to do to ensure the sector helps shape the next era.
Speakers
Muzzammil AhussainCEO, Almosafer Travel & Tourism Co.
Julie ShainockGlobal Managing Director – Travel, Transport & Hospitality Industry, Microsoft Corporation
H.E. Silvio SchembriMinister for the Economy, Technology and Strategic Projects, Government of Malta
Christie Travers-SmithDirector, EMEA Strategic Partnerships, Google Inc.
Katie BriscoeCEO, MMGY Global
Longevity is emerging as one of the most powerful trends shaping consumer behaviour, health and lifestyle and Travel & Tourism is becoming part of that transformation. Travellers are increasingly seeking experiences that help them live better, feel better and stay healthier for longer, driving demand for wellness resorts, preventive health, sleep and recovery programmes, nutrition, diagnostics and personalised longevity experiences. We will discuss how Travel & Tourism can move beyond traditional wellness to become an important part of the future of healthy living.
Speakers
Tim GrayFounder, Health Optimisation
Raffaella di SipioVice-President, Terme & SPA Italia
Pat RiddellEditor-at-Large, National Geographic Traveller
The traveller has changed. Not incrementally – fundamentally. Today's high-value traveller is better informed, more demanding, less loyal and more motivated by experience and impact than almost any generation before them. This conversation explores what brands and destinations need to understand about where consumer preferences are heading, and how the world's leading travel companies stay relevant in a landscape being rewritten in real time.
Speakers
Elie MaaloufGlobal CEO, IHG Hotels & Resorts- Manfredi Lefebvre d'OvidioChairman, WTTC
Shun Tak Holdings and Diriyah company have been taking on hugely different tasks in developing destinations. One has been focussed on starting a new destination wholesale, whilst the other has taken on the task of revitalising established destinations and shaping new identities. This discussion will highlight shared learnings and the significant differences that each challenge brings.
Speakers
Pansy HoGroup Executive Chairman & Managing Director, Shun Tak Holdings
Jerry InzerilloGroup CEO, Diriyah Company
Travel & Tourism employs one in nine people globally. And yet it faces a workforce crisis: a persistent reputation problem among younger generations, high turnover and widening skills gaps. This conversation starts with the senior leaders responsible for changing it. What will it take to make Travel & Tourism the sector that the next generation wants to build a career in?
Speakers
Desirée BollierChair & Global Chief Merchant, The Bicester Collection
Bruno DespujolGlobal Lead for Leisure & Hospitality, Oliver Wyman
Laurent GardinierPresident, Relais & Châteaux
James ThorntonCEO, Intrepid Travel
Johanna JainchillEditor in Chief, Travel Weekly
Luxury is evolving. The most discerning travellers are no longer seeking exceptional service as the end goal – they are seeking meaning, authenticity and experiences that generate lasting personal value. The CEO of Four Seasons explores how one of the world's most iconic hospitality brands is navigating that redefinition for a new generation of travellers.
Speakers
- H.E. Dr. Ian BorgDeputy Prime Minister and Minister for Health, Government of Malta
Alejandro ReynalPresident & Chief Executive Officer, Four Seasons
Open networking lunch for all Summit delegates.
Roundtable discussion and dialogue for destination invitees.
Small and medium enterprises account for the vast majority of businesses in Travel & Tourism – and for much of the sector's character, creativity and community connection. This session explores how the Together in Travel platform is building a genuine global community for travel SMEs, providing connections, intelligence and practical tools to help businesses compete and ensuring their interests are represented in conversations shaping the future of the sector.
Speakers
Matthew UpchurchChairman & CEO; Chairman, Together in Travel, Virtuoso
Andrea GrisdaleCEO & Sole Founder, IC Bellagio
Julian KassumDeputy Secretary General, International Chamber of Commerce
Caroline MoultrieManaging Director, Together in Travel, WTTC
The Sector has been tested – repeatedly and severely. Pandemics, geopolitical shocks, extreme weather, operational failures. But resilience is not a trait. It is a capability that must be built, maintained and continuously stress-tested before the next crisis arrives. This conversation examines what genuine organisational resilience looks like in practice.
Speakers
Neal JonesPresident EMEA, Marriott International
Dan RichardsCEO, The Global Rescue Companies
For decades, the measure of a successful destination was simple: more arrivals. The race was for volume, and the winners were whoever could attract the most. The smartest destinations have stopped running that race. As competition for visitors intensifies, a more sophisticated question is emerging not how many travellers, but which travellers and which new destinations? How are they spread? This session brings together destination leaders navigating that question from completely different positions, with perspective on how access and mobility shape who arrives.
Speakers
Caroline BetetaPresident & CEO, Visit California
H.E. Nikolina BrnjacMember of the European Parliament (Croatia), European Parliament
Michelle FridmanSecretary of Tourism of Jalisco, Government of Jalisco, Mexico- Carlo MicallefCEO, Malta Tourism Authority
Miguel SanzDirector-General, Turespaña
Don WelshPresident & CEO, Destinations International
India is emerging as one of the world’s most influential Travel & Tourism markets, driven by a rapidly expanding economy, growing domestic and international demand, investment and digital innovation. With a population of 1.4 billion, the domestic spend is 202.5 billion in spending. Bringing together government and private sector leaders, this conversation will explore how India can translate its scale and momentum into global tourism leadership.
Speakers
Gaurav BhatnagarCo-Founder, TBO.com
Puneet ChhatwalCEO, Indian Hotels Company
Zubin KarkariaFounder & CEO, VFS Global
H.E. Gajendra Singh ShekhawatMinister for Tourism, Government of India
Richard QuestAnchor & Correspondent; CNN Business Editor-at-Large, CNN
International travel has become a strategic priority for governments worldwide. Success increasingly depends on vision, joined-up policy and public-private collaboration that is astutely built for delivery. For the first time the US, the biggest market in the world, has appointed a presidential envoy to Tourism to support the sector.
Speakers
H.E. Ambassador Nick AdamsUS Presidential Envoy for Tourism, United States Government
What does it take to turn a destination into a global investment proposition? Greg O’Hara and Ayad Ali Al Balushi explore where capital is flowing, what investors are looking for, and how destinations can build the infrastructure, experiences and ecosystems that will define the next era. From unlocking private investment to balancing growth with authenticity, this conversation asks where the biggest opportunities lie and what it will take to seize them.
Speakers
Ayad Al BalushiCEO, OMRAN
Greg O'HaraFounder & Senior Managing Director, Certares
As Day 1 of FUTU[RE]SET draws to a close, Ministers, with their support from Heads of State are sharing their vision for the future of Travel & Tourism – setting out the priorities, partnerships and policy commitments that will define the next decade for the sector. This session is designed as an exchange: where governments are aligned, where they diverge, and what they are prepared to commit to today.
Speakers
- H.E. Dr. Jo Etienne AbelaMinister for Tourism, Government of Malta
H.E. Sherif Fathy AttiaMinister of Tourism and Antiquities, Arab Republic of Egypt
H.E. Tonči GlavinaMinister of Tourism and Sports, Government of Croatia
H.E. Patricia de LilleMinister of Tourism, Government of South Africa
H.E. Mehmet Nuri ErsoyMinister of Culture and Tourism, Republic of Türkiye- Richard QuestAnchor & Correspondent; CNN Business Editor-at-Large, CNN
An invitation-only breakfast for WTTC Members, focused on investment trends, capital flows and economic opportunity in Travel & Tourism – setting the agenda ahead of the day's plenary sessions.
Drawing on his experience as Prime Minister of Canada and on the global stage, including years of engagement with G7, G20 and NATO leaders, Justin Trudeau will offer insights into leadership in an increasingly complex and interconnected world. From navigating economic uncertainty to building international alliances and consensus, he will reflect on what it takes to lead through disruption and turn collaboration into action.
Speakers
The Rt. Hon. Justin TrudeauFormer Prime Minister of Canada- Gloria GuevaraPresident & CEO, WTTC
Asia-Pacific was the fastest growing region in 2025. It grew 8.1% almost doubling the world’s overall growth of 8.1%. Jane Sun, CEO of Trip.com has had a front seat of this remarkable rise for an exciting developing region. She shares the trends and future strategies that have helped drive APAC to a greater global standing.
Speakers
Jane SunCEO, Trip.com Group
A future-ready sector invests in its resilience today. This means understanding the long-term sustainability of businesses and destinations, adapting to climate risks, and protecting the nature and culture that attract visitors and support communities. It also means managing resources responsibly, adopting circularity and reducing food waste. This session brings together business leaders and policymakers to examine why this investment is critical for the sector's future.
Speakers
Gloria FluxàVice-Chairman & CSO; WTTC Vice-Chair of Sustainability, Iberostar
Randy DurbandCEO, Global Sustainable Tourism Council (GSTC)
Kevin FsadniDeputy CEO & Chief Officer (Product & Regulatory), Malta Tourism Authority
Stephanie StaceyLeisure Industries Correspondent, Financial Times
Connectivity is the backbone of Travel & Tourism, and the future of mobility is being reshaped by changing demand, new technologies, infrastructure investment and the need for more seamless and efficient travel. The discussion will examine how new routes, greater capacity, smarter transport networks and technology can reshape the way people move, unlock new destinations, support regional development and power the next phase of global Travel & Tourism growth.
Speakers
Brendan BrennanCEO, HBX Group
Young Tae KimSecretary-General, International Transport Forum
Leslie VellaChief Officer Strategic Development, Malta Tourism Authority- Jonathan SamuelsBroadcaster, Sky News
The Bicester Collection, WTTC, UN Special Representative and ECPAT International.
Europe remains the world’s biggest tourism region, but its future competitiveness cannot be taken for granted. Rising costs, regulation, changing traveller expectations, pressure on destinations, talent shortages and rapid technological change are reshaping the sector. The first European Commissioner for Sustainable Transport and Tourism will share his vision for the future of Europe and what needs to be reset to keep the region competitive, connected and attractive for investment.
Speakers
H.E. Apostolos TzitzikostasEuropean Commissioner for Sustainable Transport and Tourism, European Commission
Gen Z has become instrumental for the survival of our sector. Including them in the conversation is fundamental for the future traveller and to shape our sector. They are part of the workforce but also travellers. For this generation, travel is a built-in part of their culture and their DNA.
Speakers
H.E. Glenn MicallefCommissioner for Intergenerational Fairness, Youth, Culture and Sport, European Commission
Yoosef Al HartyGerman University of Technology, Oman
Jaron JohnstonCalifornia State University Monterey Bay, USA
Maria Celeste Ticona AlcazarESCP Business School- Gloria GuevaraPresident & CEO, WTTC
Martin BarthFounder, World Tourism Forum Lucerne
Former Prime Minister of Spain, José María Aznar, reflects on how the world is changing, what effective leadership requires today, and how governments and business can navigate uncertainty while continuing to drive growth and opportunity. It will also consider what these global shifts mean for Travel & Tourism as a bridge between economies, cultures and people, and the role the sector can play in supporting growth, stability and international cooperation. He was a Head of State who understood the value of Travel & Tourism and dealt with challenges in Europe and globally.
Speakers
H.E. José María AznarFormer Prime Minister of Spain- Manfredi Lefebvre d'OvidioChairman, WTTC
The Travel & Tourism sector has spent decades designing extraordinary experiences for some travellers while making ordinary journeys unnecessarily difficult for others. This session examines what happens when inclusive design moves from the margins to the mainstream: for the estimated 1.3 billion people living with disabilities globally, for older travellers, for neurodivergent guests, and for the brands and destinations that serve them.
Speakers
Shawn PisaniVice President, HelmsBriscoe
John SageFounder & CEO, Accessible Travel Solutions
We have had many discussions based on WTTC’s eight key priorities, sourced from our members. When going through a reset it is important to ask and establish subsequently, what will your leading priorities be? The leaders of two global companies sit to discuss where their focus will be for the next ten years and highlight where they see their key opportunities.
Speakers
Sébastien BazinCEO, Accor
Eijiro YamakitaChairperson and Representative Director, JTB Corp
The next trillion dollar investment will be defined by successful public-private partnerships. Governments that can facilitate the work for businesses will be able to capture a bigger share. Who in this room is prepared to commit to the actions and investments that will move the dial? • Carlo Bonomi, Managing Partner, Investindustrial • Hamza Farooqui, CEO, Millat Group • Robert O’Leary, U.S. Deputy Assistant Secretary for Travel and Tourism • Hon. Dr. Thabet Hassan Al Nabulsi, Commissioner of Tourism and Youth, Aqaba Special Economic Zone Authority, Jordan • Moderator: Olivia Kinghorst, International MC & Moderator
Speakers
Carlo BonomiManaging Partner, Investindustrial
Hamza FarooquiCEO, Millat Group
Robert O'LearyU.S. Deputy Assistant Secretary for Travel and Tourism, United States Government
Hon. Dr. Thabet Hassan Al NabulsiCommissioner of Tourism and Youth, Aqaba Special Economic Zone Authority, Jordan
Olivia KinghorstInternational MC & Moderator
The modern traveller is ecologically and socially conscious. Many travellers are keen to leave their favourite destination better than when they arrived. How can the sector encourage more synergistic scenarios where the impact focus of customers and businesses is aligned?
Speakers
Cara MortonCEO Global Businesses & Operations, Zurich Insurance Group
Mark WeingardCEO & Founder, Iniala- Johanna JainchillEditor in Chief, Travel Weekly
Malta has long been a crossroads where Mediterranean traditions, global influences, and exceptional local ingredients come together to create a vibrant culinary identity. Its rich history, thriving hospitality sector, and growing reputation as a gastronomic destination make it an inspiring setting for chefs to innovate while staying rooted in tradition. This discussion will explore why Malta offers a unique environment with its diverse food culture and access to fresh produce, as well as its role as a destination where food, tourism, and culture intersect.
Speakers
Keith AbelaResearch, Development & Food Science Consultant
Jonathan BrincatHead Chef, Noni – Valletta
Dr. Noel ButtigiegHead of the Department of Tourism Management, University of Malta
Simon RoganHead Chef, ION Harbour by Simon Rogan
Carina DimechInternational Media Relations Senior Manager – Gastronomy Segment Head, Malta Tourism Authority
Two days of critical conversations. One sector at a turning point. WTTC's leadership reflects on the tensions, conversations and commitments that have emerged across the Summit that has shaped the global agenda to execute jointly. The session concludes with the announcement of the host destination for the 2027 WTTC Global Summit.
Speakers
- Manfredi Lefebvre d'OvidioChairman, WTTC
- Carlo MicallefCEO, Malta Tourism Authority
- Gloria GuevaraPresident & CEO, WTTC
Watch the sessions
Malta Welcomes the World | Opening Ceremony | WTTC Global Summit 2026
Malta Welcomes the World | Opening Ceremony | WTTC Global Summit 2026
The Impact-Oriented Traveller | WTTC Global Summit 2026
Public and Private Leadership: The Next Trillion Dollar Investment | WTTC 2026
José María Aznar on Leadership in a Changing World | WTTC Global Summit 2026
What Are Your Priorities? | Sébastien Bazin & Eijiro Yamakita | WTTC 2026
Tourism for All: Accessible and Inclusive Travel | WTTC Global Summit 2026
FUTU[RE]SET: Engaging with the Next Generation | WTTC Global Summit 2026
Unlock Futures: Protecting Children | WTTC Global Summit 2026
Connecting the World: The Future of Mobility | WTTC Global Summit 2026
The Cost of Inaction: Investing to Safeguard the Future | WTTC Global Summit 2026
Navigating the Travel Landscape | Jane Sun, Trip.com Group | WTTC Global Summit 2026
Global Leaders Dialogue | WTTC Global Summit 2026
Shaping the Future of Luxury Travel | Alejandro Reynal, Four Seasons | WTTC 2026
Spain: The Success of Tourism That Brings Us Together | Jordi Hereu | WTTC 2026
Resetting: How Do We Engage Future Talent? | WTTC Global Summit 2026
Photos
Photo albums on Flickr, day by day.
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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.
