FITUR LGTB+ consolidates its position as the largest LGTB exhibition space at tourism fairs in the world

FITUR LGBT has inaugurated a new edition as a point of reference for debate and collaboration around diversity in the tourism sector. Under the motto, 'Diversity in every Destination', the section organised by FITUR in collaboration with JN Global Project, will highlight inclusive national and international destinations during its professional days, as well as announcements of innovative events and acts to promote inclusive tourism.

Led by Juan Martín Boll, director of JN Global Project, the inauguration was attended by Arancha Priede, General Director of Trade Fair and Congress Business, Luis Martín Izquierdo, Deputy Minister of Culture, Tourism and Sport of the Community of Madrid; Héctor Coronel, director of the Community of Madrid; Miguel Sanz, general director of Turespaña and Gemma Juncá Rodríguez, Marketing and Brand Director of Iberia.

Juan Martín Boll has highlighted that “FITUR LGTB+ has experienced a 30% growth compared to the previous year, consolidating itself as the largest LGTB exhibition area of ​​the world's tourism fairs.” He also stated that “Spain is at the top as the most highly valued destination for LGTB+ tourism and the Community of Madrid leads the ranking of the most LGTB-friendly destinations, ranking second in Europe, after Berlin.”

For her part, Arancha Priede has stated that “at IFEMA MADRID we are fully associated with the values ​​of diversity and inclusion in tourism. FITUR LGTB+ was the first section to be held at IFEMA MADRID and, after 15 editions, it continues to grow, which indicates that the values ​​are implicit in the Fair.”

Miguel Sanz, CEO of Turespaña, said that “Spain is the best destination in the world for its freedom, diversity and inclusion, values ​​that are reflected in events such as FITUR LGBT+, which began 15 years ago at IFEMA MADRID”. He added that in 2023 Spain received 94 million visitors, generating 126 billion euros in tourism spending, and highlighted the investment of 2.4 billion in sustainability, part of which is allocated to LGBTQ+ projects.

Luis Martínez Izquierdo stressed that “tourism in Madrid is coming to this new edition of FITUR in top form, thanks to the collaboration between institutions and the sector. This has allowed us to achieve achievements such as a better balance of tourist activity throughout the year.” He also highlighted that tourism represents 8.6% of the region’s GDP, equivalent to 25 billion euros, consolidating Madrid as a benchmark destination on the international tourism scene.

In addition, during this inaugural event, awards were given to destinations that have joined the Spanish Network of Destinations for Diversity (REDD) to highlight their commitment to inclusion and diversity. These certificates were collected by different authorities from the cities of Ávila, Cullera, Cádiz, Gran Canaria, Seville, Melilla, and the Community of Madrid.

FITUR LGTB+, committed destinations and events for diversity and inclusion

Located in Pavilion 9 of IFEMA MADRID, FITUR LGTB+ has kicked off with the announcement of the new edition of the Benidorm Fest with the presence of María Izaguirre, Director of Communication and Participation at RTVE, accompanied by the members of Nebulossa, which will feature the participation of 16 artists, outstanding performances and events such as the Tapa Benidorm Fest, during the week of January 28 to February 1.

The city of Seville has presented its program for Pride 2025, with the aim of positioning itself as a benchmark for inclusion in Europe, Latin America and the world. Among the initiatives are Orgullo de Barrio, which will bring cultural activities to different districts of the city, Orgullo de Mercado, with drags such as Samantha Valentine and Xenon Spain to make diversity visible in everyday spaces and Orgullo Latino, focused on the Latin American LGTB+ community. In addition, Sergio Uceda has performed the event's anthem "Todo está cambiar" (Everything is changing), and announcers such as Álvaro Mayo, Melody, Sonia and Selena, Vicco and Las Ketchup have been confirmed.

Torremolinos, with a visionary spirit, has shown the charms of its pioneering destination in LTGB+ tourism that celebrates a decade celebrating diversity. Among its outstanding initiatives is the outstanding Torremolinos Pride or the Drag Gala, but also other novelties such as the Winter Fest or the Bear Fest. The city has also received the LGTB+ 2025 Award that recognizes its trajectory and leadership in the sector, collected by its mayor, Margarita del Cid. David Gómez, executive director of the Gay Games Valencia 2026, has presented the most important novelties and expectations of this sporting and cultural event of the LGTBIQ+ community that has an estimated economic impact of 120 million euros. "Valencia becomes the first Spanish city that will host the Gay Games Valencia 2026 from June 27 to July 4, which brings together the competition of 37 disciplines and 2 exhibition sports, as well as cultural activities."

This space has also hosted the presentation of Cullera Beach Pride 2025, with the motto "We Love You All" which will be held on June 13 and 14, to reaffirm the LGTB+ commitment of this destination that belongs to the Spanish Network of Destinations for Diversity (REDD). The presentation led by the artist Xenon Spain was attended by Débora Mari, Councilor for Tourism, Álex Morales, Councilor for Diversity of Cullera and Jordi Mayor, Mayor of the city, highlighting that "Cullera is a lively city committed to inclusion that celebrates diversity 365 days a year."

Source: FITUR.