Malta to host WTTC Global Summit in 2026

London, UK, October 9, 2025 – The World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC) has officially announced that its 26th Global Summit will be held in Valletta, Malta, in 2026.

The announcement was made during the closing ceremony of the 25th Global Summit, which brought together thousands of leaders from the global Travel & Tourism industry.

In collaboration with the Malta Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Tourism, the Malta Tourism Authority, and the Government of Malta, the event will bring together influential leaders from the public and private sectors to address the future of tourism, with a focus on innovation, resilience, sustainability, and long-term growth.

Valletta, a UNESCO World Heritage City and a cultural crossroads for millennia, has been selected as the host city for this iconic event. Known as the Jewel of the Mediterranean, the Maltese capital offers an exceptional setting for high-level discussions, networking, and knowledge-sharing sessions that will shape the global direction of the industry.

For three days in 2026, the WTTC Global Summit will serve as a platform to forge partnerships, drive sustainable investments, and highlight the essential role of the Travel & Tourism sector in the global economy.

WTTC Acting Director General Gloria Guevara said: “We are delighted to bring the WTTC Global Summit to Valletta, one of Europe’s most beautiful capital cities. Malta will provide an extraordinary setting for leaders from around the world to come together and shape the future of tourism.”

“Tourism is a fundamental pillar of the Maltese economy. This year, WTTC forecasts that Malta’s Travel & Tourism sector will contribute €3.6 billion to the economy, 43.5% above 2019 levels. We also project that the sector will support one in five jobs in the country this year, representing 18% growth compared to 2019.”

Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Tourism, Ian Borg, said: “The announcement in Rome is a proud moment for Malta. I want to thank the WTTC, along with our Ministry and the Malta Tourism Authority, for achieving this great milestone.

“Hosting the Global Summit in Valletta confirms Malta's growing role as a leader in the global tourism sector. This provides us with an unparalleled opportunity to showcase our digital heritage, our innovation, and our hospitality, while positioning Malta at the center of discussions on sustainability and resilience in tourism.”

Carlo Micallef, Director General of the Malta Tourism Authority, added: “Hosting the WTTC Global Summit in Valletta is not only an extraordinary achievement for Malta, but also a powerful statement about our place on the global tourism stage. This summit will attract the world’s most influential leaders and decision-makers, giving us a unique opportunity to showcase Malta as a dynamic, innovative, and sustainable destination.”

“It reflects our tourism sector's unwavering commitment to driving growth, embracing resilience, and leading with vision. Beyond the immediate economic impact, the Global Summit will strengthen Malta's reputation as a center of excellence in tourism, leaving a lasting mark on our industry, our economy, and our nation.”

WTTC President Manfredi Lefebvre commented: “I would like to thank the Malta Ministry of Tourism, the Malta Tourism Authority, and the Government of Malta for hosting the WTTC Global Summit 2026, the flagship event for the Travel & Tourism sector. The summit in Valletta is an extraordinary opportunity for Malta to showcase its rich history, vibrant culture, and amazing hospitality.

“Malta, an island steeped in history and architectural heritage, offers a unique combination of experiences that reflect its cultural diversity. From ancient temples to the stunning Baroque architecture of Valletta, Malta's cultural richness is a treasure waiting to be discovered.

“This unique event will propel the sector forward and unlock investment opportunities for the country, as leaders from around the world come together to discuss and shape the future of our sector. Together, we will explore innovative solutions, foster sustainable practices, and reinforce our commitment to long-term growth and resilience in an ever-changing world.”

The Global Summit in Rome was hailed as a resounding success, with record levels of international participation, dynamic discussions on the future of Travel & Tourism, and strong commitments from both the public and private sectors.

More details, including dates, program, speakers, and registration information for the 2026 Global Summit, will be announced later next year.

The 25th Global Summit is being held in collaboration with the Italian Ministry of Tourism, ENIT (the national tourism agency), the City of Rome, and the Lazio Region.

Otros socios del WTTC incluyen Antonio Lefebvre d'Ovidio Di Bolsonaro Philanthropy, Arsenale Spa, Chase Travel (JPMC), Giacomo Milano, MMGY, MSC Group, Terme di Saturnia y Trip.com Group.