Saudi Arabia Joins India and UAE for WTTA High-Level Event And Anniversary Gala 2025: A Historic Gathering That Will Shape the Future of Global Tourism!

The WTTA High-Level Event & Anniversary Gala 2025 promises to be a landmark occasion for the global tourism industry, with key stakeholders from Saudi Arabia, India, and the UAE coming together for this pivotal event. Scheduled to take place in Saudi Arabia, India, and UAE, the event will not only mark an important milestone in the World Tourism and Travel Association‘s (WTTA) history but also serve as a platform for global tourism leaders to discuss the future of the industry.

As the world continues to recover from the impacts of the global pandemic, tourism is experiencing a resurgence, and this event will provide an opportunity to explore innovative solutions, new opportunities, and sustainable practices. The event will attract decision-makers, influencers, and innovators, setting the stage for groundbreaking discussions and partnerships that could reshape the travel landscape.

What is the WTTA High-Level Event & Anniversary Gala 2025?

The WTTA High-Level Event & Anniversary Gala 2025 is a major international tourism event hosted by the World Tourism and Travel Association (WTTA). It aims to bring together top-level executives, government representatives, and influential thought leaders from the tourism and travel sectors. The event will include high-profile panel discussions, networking sessions, and presentations on the current state and future of tourism globally.

This year’s event, marking the WTTA’s anniversary, is set to take place across three key destinations: Saudi Arabia, India, and UAE. Each country plays a crucial role in the global tourism economy, and their participation in this gathering underscores the significance of the event.

Why Saudi Arabia, India, and UAE?

The choice of Saudi Arabia, India, and UAE as host countries for the 2025 event reflects their growing importance in the global tourism sector. All three nations have seen significant growth in tourism over the past few years and are positioned to become key players in the industry’s recovery and future development.

• Saudi Arabia has been making major strides in its tourism sector as part of its Vision 2030 plan, which includes large-scale investments in tourism infrastructure, cultural initiatives, and luxury travel.
• India continues to be one of the fastest-growing tourism markets in the world, with a diverse range of attractions that cater to both domestic and international travelers.
• UAE is already a major hub for global tourism, especially in cities like Dubai and Abu Dhabi, known for their cutting-edge infrastructure, cultural offerings, and luxury experiences.

These countries are committed to positioning themselves as leaders in sustainable, innovative, and inclusive tourism, making them ideal locations for a high-profile event like the WTTA High-Level Event & Anniversary Gala 2025.

What to Expect at the Event

The WTTA High-Level Event & Anniversary Gala 2025 will feature several key components designed to foster collaboration and innovation within the tourism industry:

• Panel Discussions: Industry experts will delve into critical topics such as sustainable tourism, destination marketing, tourism recovery post-pandemic, and technology in travel.
• Networking Opportunities: The event will provide ample opportunities for tourism professionals from around the world to connect, share ideas, and form partnerships that will drive future growth.
• Showcase of Tourism Innovations: Attendees will be able to explore cutting-edge technologies and solutions that are shaping the future of the industry, including digital platforms, AI-driven travel experiences, and sustainable travel options.
• Anniversary Gala: The event will culminate in a grand Anniversary Gala, celebrating the WTTA’s accomplishments and recognizing the leaders and innovators who have contributed to the growth of global tourism.

Where Will the Event Take Place?

The event will be held across three prestigious locations:

• Saudi Arabia: As a growing tourism hub in the Middle East, Saudi Arabia is positioning itself as a key destination for both leisure and business travelers. Major cities like Riyadh and Jeddah are set to host various segments of the event.
• India: Known for its rich cultural heritage, vibrant tourism industry, and vast diversity, India will host part of the event in New Delhi or Mumbai, both of which are major tourism gateways for international travelers.
• UAE: The UAE, already recognized as a global tourism leader, will host key events in Dubai or Abu Dhabi, cities known for their world-class infrastructure and luxury travel experiences.

When is the WTTA High-Level Event & Anniversary Gala 2025?

The WTTA High-Level Event & Anniversary Gala 2025 will take place in the fall of 2025, with specific dates yet to be finalized. This timing allows tourism professionals to engage in vital discussions about the state of the industry in the wake of ongoing global challenges. It also aligns with the peak travel season, ensuring high participation from global tourism leaders.

How Will the Event Impact Global Tourism?

The WTTA High-Level Event & Anniversary Gala 2025 is expected to have a significant impact on global tourism. By bringing together top-level stakeholders from across the world, the event will catalyze new partnerships, initiatives, and strategies that will shape the future of the industry.

With a focus on sustainability, technological innovation, and inclusive tourism, the event will drive discussions about how the tourism sector can recover, grow, and thrive in the coming years. For Saudi Arabia, India, and the UAE, hosting the event further cements their position as leaders in the global tourism space.

Conclusion

The WTTA High-Level Event & Anniversary Gala 2025 promises to be a landmark event in the tourism industry, with Saudi Arabia, India, and the UAE providing the perfect backdrop for this important gathering. As global tourism continues to evolve, this event will be pivotal in shaping the industry’s future by fostering collaboration, promoting sustainable practices, and driving innovation. It is an event no tourism professional can afford to miss.

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Italy joins Spain, Finland, Portugal, France, Turkey, Germany in jaw-dropping exhibition growth in European history—more than fifty-three million attendees and counting with two thousand two hundred and forty events, twenty-three million square meters space.

In a historic shift, Italy has joined Spain, Finland, Portugal, France, Turkey, and Germany in what can only be described as jaw-dropping exhibition growth across Europe. The latest figures reveal a staggering 2,240 events and a mind-blowing 23 million square meters of exhibition space, making 2024 a groundbreaking year in the exhibition industry.

This phenomenal expansion has attracted over 53 million attendees, a testament to the growing demand for face-to-face business platforms across the continent. The collaboration among these countries highlights a major trend in the exhibition world: unparalleled growth and opportunity. With major nations like Italy taking part, the European exhibition market is on a record-breaking trajectory. Travel and Tour World urges readers to dive into this exciting development, as this is just the beginning of a new era of exhibition dominance. Don’t miss out—keep reading to discover how these numbers are reshaping the European exhibition industry forever!

UFI, the Global Association of the Exhibition Industry, has published the latest edition of its Euro Fair Statistics report, providing a comprehensive look into the exhibition market across 16 European countries. The report, which includes certified data from 11 national and regional organizations, represents an estimated 55% of the European exhibition sector. The newly released figures highlight the continued recovery and expansion of the industry, with 2,240 exhibitions held in 2024, showcasing the sector’s resilience and growing demand for face-to-face business platforms.

Key Findings from the 2024 Euro Fair Statistics Report

The 2024 Euro Fair Statistics report covers a total of 2,240 exhibitions, including 235 UFI Approved Events. These exhibitions occupied 23.1 million square meters of registered net space and attracted a total of 53.8 million registered visits. Additionally, the events hosted 594,444 exhibiting companies. This data underscores the vibrant nature of the European exhibition market, reflecting ongoing growth as businesses continue to invest in physical events.

The report also reveals that 40% of these events were dedicated to trade visitors, while 30% targeted the public and the remaining 30% served both audiences. This breakdown highlights the diverse nature of exhibitions, which cater to a wide range of industry sectors and audiences, ensuring that the exhibition space remains a vital platform for business interaction and consumer engagement.

Market Growth and Expanding Data Coverage

The increase in events and market coverage is evident in the 2024 report, with UFI estimating that the data represents nearly 55% of the European exhibition sector. Chris Skeith OBE, UFI CEO, commented, “The number of events covered by the ‘Euro Fair Statistics’ report has continued to grow in recent years.” He also noted that this year’s data collection process was enhanced by asking national bodies to specify whether reported figures referred to visitors or visits, thus improving the accuracy of the data.

The 2024 report reflects the changing demands in the exhibition industry, with organisers adapting to shifts in the market, particularly in response to the increasing importance of face-to-face engagement. As the sector recovers from previous disruptions, the continued growth in event numbers and attendance is a positive sign for the future of in-person exhibitions across Europe.

Contributions from National and Regional Organisations

The comprehensive data in the Euro Fair Statistics report is made possible through the collaboration of national and regional organizations, including AEFI (Italy), AFE (Spain), ATFEO (Finland), BDO & Associates (Portugal), CENTREX (Central and Eastern Europe), CLC-VECTA (The Netherlands), FEBELUX (Belgium), FKM (Germany), SOKEE (Greece), TOBB (Turkey), and UNIMEV-OJS (France). These organizations have provided certified data that reflects the diverse nature of exhibitions across different European regions, contributing to a fuller picture of the market.

By consolidating data from these diverse sources, UFI can provide a comprehensive and accurate representation of the European exhibition sector, further solidifying its role as a key resource for the industry.

The Future of the European Exhibition Industry

The findings of the Euro Fair Statistics report suggest a promising future for the European exhibition market. The increase in events, coupled with rising attendance, indicates a recovery that is outpacing expectations. As businesses and organisations continue to prioritize face-to-face engagement, the exhibition sector is likely to remain an essential element of the European economy.

With continued investment in exhibition platforms and the development of new ways to engage audiences, the industry is well-positioned to thrive in the years ahead. As UFI continues to enhance its data collection methods and provide insights into market trends, the association remains a central figure in shaping the future of the global exhibition industry.

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China’s Zhengzhou Leads the Charge in Merging Cultural Preservation with Urban Development: A Glimpse into the Global Mayors Dialogue 2025

China’s Henan Province capital, Zhengzhou, is emerging as a model for combining cultural preservation and urban renewal. More than 300 city officials, mayors, and academics from around the globe attended the city’s 2025 International Mayor’s Forum on Tourism and Global Mayors Dialogue, which took place from October 22 to 25, 2025. The topic of discussion at these forums was “Preserving the Cultural Legacy of Ancient Capitals and Driving Urban Renewal”. The occasion highlighted Zhengzhou’s special initiatives to make sure that its rich cultural legacy is not sacrificed in the name of urban growth.

A Vision for Sustainable Urban Growth

The city of Zhengzhou has adopted an innovative approach to urban planning, placing archaeological discovery before construction. This method, known as the “archaeology first, construction later” reform, ensures that the city’s cultural and historical sites are protected amidst its rapid urban development. This reform aims to balance the need for modern infrastructure with the preservation of historical legacies.

The integration of cultural heritage with contemporary urban life is particularly evident in projects like the Shang City Archaeological Site Park and the Fuminli Cultural Block. These projects are designed to harmoniously merge ancient relics with modern spaces, fostering an environment where the past and the present coexist. The Shang City Archaeological Site Park, for example, is a vast open-air museum where visitors can walk through history while enjoying the amenities of modern-day Zhengzhou. This careful integration has made Zhengzhou a shining example of sustainable urban development.

Global Recognition for Zhengzhou’s Cultural and Urban Renewal Approach

Zhengzhou’s efforts have not gone unnoticed. The city has received international recognition for its work in merging urban expansion with cultural preservation. At the forum, leaders from Italy, Spain, and New Zealand commended the city for its forward-thinking strategies. Maurizio Rasero, the Mayor of Asti, Italy, praised the city’s ability to preserve its cultural charm while embracing the advancements of modern infrastructure. Juan de Dios Perez Garcia, the Mayor of Spain’s Zaragoza, also recognised Zhengzhou for its innovative projects that harmoniously blend the ancient and the contemporary.

Furthermore, New Zealand’s Rotorua Mayor highlighted the role of modern technology in revitalising traditional culture. He pointed out that technology has played a crucial role in revamping ancient cultural sites and integrating them into today’s economy. By using modern tools to enhance the visitor experience, cities like Zhengzhou can stimulate economic growth, promote tourism, and create new job opportunities.

Zhengzhou’s Urban Projects: A Model for the Future

The Shang City Archaeological Site Park and Fuminli Cultural Block are just the beginning of Zhengzhou’s ambitious vision for the future. These developments are not just about preserving the past but also about ensuring that the city remains competitive on the global stage. The integration of heritage sites into urban spaces is seen as a crucial step in promoting cultural tourism. The Fuminli Cultural Block, for instance, is a lively cultural district where ancient architecture meets modern retail spaces, providing a platform for both local artisans and global businesses to thrive.

Zhengzhou’s urban renewal initiatives are also deeply intertwined with the region’s tourism sector. By preserving cultural landmarks and making them accessible to tourists, the city has created a new wave of cultural tourism. Tourists visiting Zhengzhou can now experience an immersive journey that includes archaeological sites, museums, and cultural exhibitions. This not only provides an educational experience but also boosts local businesses by attracting both domestic and international visitors.

A Global Dialogue on Cultural Preservation and Urbanization

The Global Mayors Dialogue-Zhengzhou and 2025 International Mayor’s Forum on Tourism served as platforms for a global discussion on the challenges and opportunities in balancing cultural preservation with urban growth. This event provided a space for mayors, officials, and scholars to share their experiences and learn from one another. Several key themes emerged during the discussions, including the role of governance in cultural heritage protection, the importance of involving local communities in preservation efforts, and the need for sustainable tourism practices.

Zhengzhou’s example has shown that it is possible to preserve the past while embracing the future. By placing cultural heritage at the forefront of urban planning, the city has not only protected its historical treasures but also created new opportunities for tourism, education, and economic development.

Zhengzhou’s Approach: A Roadmap for Future Generations

The city of Zhengzhou’s approach to merging cultural preservation with urban development is a roadmap for cities around the world. As urbanisation continues at an unprecedented pace, cities must find ways to preserve their cultural legacies while adapting to the demands of the modern world. Zhengzhou’s success is a testament to the fact that cultural preservation is not a hindrance to growth but rather an essential component of sustainable urban development.

A New Era of Cultural and Urban Synergy

The difficulties of maintaining cultural heritage while promoting economic growth will only get worse as the world becomes more urbanised. Other cities struggling with the challenges of urban renewal can learn a lot from Zhengzhou’s audacious strategy. Zhengzhou has established a benchmark for other cities to follow by giving archaeology and cultural preservation top priority in its urban planning. The 2025 International Mayor’s Forum on Tourism and the Global Mayors Dialogue-Zhengzhou played a significant role in emphasizing the value of combining urban and cultural development in ways that benefit both local communities and international tourism.

It is obvious that the preservation of cultural heritage will be essential in determining how tourism, urban planning, and economic growth develop in cities like Zhengzhou. Zhengzhou is well-positioned to continue being a leader in urban development and cultural preservation for many years to come thanks to projects like the Fuminli Cultural Block and the Shang City Archaeological Site Park.

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Yunnan’s Rich Cultural and Culinary Heritage Captivates at the Greater Bay Area Conference 2025: What You Need To Know

At the Greater Bay Area Conference 2025 held at Hong Kong, the province of Yunnan lured the participants with a mouth-watering and stunning presentation of its distinctive cultural and gastronomic inheritance. Supporting the Hong Kong Coalition, China Daily collaborated with it to organize the event on October 23, 2025, which showed the increasing importance of Yunnan as a world destination for tourism and culinary innovation. While presenting itself under the theme ‘Yunnan: A Many-Splendored Life‘, the province gave the public a peek into its enchanting world through a variety of exquisite products, such as fragrant teas and rare coffees, wild mushrooms and even biscuits influenced by the local flavors. This event was a significant turning point in Yunnan’s struggle for recognition as a global tourist magnet endowed with abundant biodiversity and cultural heritage.

Discovering Yunnan’s Flavorful Offerings

At the conference, the Yunnan Provincial Department of Culture and Tourism presented an array of the province’s most cherished specialties. Among the most popular offerings were Yunnan’s coffee and black tea, with the highlight being the flower-fermented coffee, a product that left a lasting impression on international guests. This unique coffee is made using a process that incorporates flowers, giving it a distinctive aroma and taste that stood out at the event. As Yunnan has long been known as the “Hometown of Chinese Coffee”, its coffee culture is gaining significant attention both domestically and internationally.

Adding to the allure, Yunnan’s tea culture was also prominently featured. With its rich history of tea production, the province has seen increasing demand for its specialty teas in markets like Hong Kong. The city’s strong tea-drinking culture makes it an ideal base for Yunnan’s tea brands to introduce their products. At the event, attendees were introduced to Chen Sheng Hong Tea, a notable Yunnan tea brand that is expanding its footprint in the Hong Kong market. The tea‘s smooth taste and rich heritage were a perfect introduction to the growing tea tourism experience in the region.

Yunnan’s Culinary Innovation: Wild Mushrooms and More

In addition to coffee and tea, the event also showcased Yunnan’s culinary innovation with wild mushroom biscuits and sauces. These unique products, derived from Yunnan’s rich biodiversity, demonstrate the province’s commitment to blending traditional flavors with modern culinary techniques. Yunnan’s diverse ecosystems allow for a wide range of wild mushrooms and other ingredients, which are now being creatively incorporated into local cuisine. These products are part of Yunnan’s efforts to upgrade its food industry while promoting its sustainable agricultural practices. Visitors to the event were not only able to sample these delicacies but were also invited to explore the province’s growing culinary tourism offerings.

Building Cultural Bridges: Yunnan’s Intangible Cultural Heritage

Beyond food, Yunnan’s intangible cultural heritage was also celebrated during the event. A mesmerizing dance performance by the Yunnan Gengma National Song and Dance Troupe took center stage, captivating the audience with the Water-Splashing Dance, a tradition performed by the Dai people during the Water-Splashing Festival. This performance highlighted the province’s rich cultural traditions and its role in preserving ethnic diversity through the performing arts. Such performances are a testament to Yunnan’s ability to weave together modern tourism with cultural preservation, offering travelers a unique glimpse into the province’s vibrant heritage.

As Yunnan’s cultural tourism continues to grow, the province is positioning itself as a key destination for travelers seeking to explore authentic, immersive experiences in both nature and culture. Visitors to Yunnan can not only enjoy its stunning landscapes but also engage with its rich cultural practices that have been passed down through generations.

Yunnan’s Growing Role in Global Tourism

The success of the Greater Bay Area Conference 2025 underscores Yunnan’s growing importance in global tourism. With increasing numbers of Hong Kong residents traveling to Yunnan for both leisure and cultural exploration, the province is becoming a bridge for cross-border tourism. The event served as an excellent platform for Yunnan to connect with international buyers and industry leaders, further cementing its reputation as a world-class destination for travelers looking for more than just typical tourist attractions.

By promoting products such as flower-fermented coffee and tea, alongside cultural performances and unique food products, Yunnan is positioning itself as a destination where visitors can experience not only the beauty of its landscapes but also its rich traditions and culinary creativity. As the province continues to develop its tourism infrastructure, more and more travelers will find Yunnan to be the next must-visit destination on their travel lists.

Yunnan – A Destination for the World

The Greater Bay Area Conference 2025 emphasised Yunnan’s increasing presence on the international scene and the region’s showing its diversity, cultural legacy, and excellence in food. The province is making its way into the hearts of tourists and industry insiders through its wide range of products from flower-fermented coffee to wild mushroom biscuits. The area is now developing into a major tourist destination that offers every type of traveller something: culture, food, or outdoor activities. Yunnan’s leading position in tourism is going to be more apparent, and its global allure will be proportionate to the growing desire of people to visit places that are sustainable and authentic.

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Hong Kong Wine and Dine Festival of this Year Celebrates Gastronomy Tourism, Blending the Culinary Experiences with Luxury Travel, MICE, and Sustainability

Hong Kong Wine and Dine Festival 2025 returns with a lively theme, “REMIX. BEST OF ALL WORLDS”, highlighting the city’s gastronomic charm and cementing its position as a worldwide culinary hub. Organized by the Hong Kong Tourism Board (HKTB), its annual flagship edition from October 23 to 26, 2025, is more than about food and beverage—it’s about making memories for tourists and celebrating the confluence of gastronomy, tourism, and business travel. The festival is a key component of the HKTB’s long-term strategy to establish Hong Kong as a leading tourism destination, with a focus on high-yield tourism and luxury travel.

A Celebration of Hong Kong’s Unique Role in Global Culinary Tourism

The Hong Kong Wine & Dine Festival plays a pivotal role in establishing the city as a leading epicurean capital. Gastronomy tourism, where food and culinary experiences become key elements of the travel experience, has seen exponential growth globally, and Hong Kong is capitalizing on this trend by showcasing its rich cultural diversity, culinary traditions, and world-class restaurant scene. Visitors from all over the world travel to Hong Kong to indulge in its vibrant food culture, ranging from street food markets to Michelin-starred dining experiences.

Hong Kong’s culinary offerings extend beyond food alone; the city is a melting pot of flavors and international influences, blending local Cantonese cuisine with global flavors brought by international chefs. From dim sum and roast goose to international wine pairings, the festival celebrates this fusion of cultures and provides a unique space for food lovers, tourists, and gastronomists to experience new tastes and creative interpretations of traditional dishes.

Strengthening Business Tourism: MICE Meets Gastronomy

A major component of this year’s festival was its integration with MICE tourism—a rapidly growing segment in the global tourism market. Business tourism and conventions are crucial drivers of high-yield travel, and the HKTB strategically used the festival as an opportunity to engage top-tier travel agents, convention organizers, and business partners from around the world.

By hosting an exclusive sommelier wine-pairing private tour and the “Toast to Success: Hong Kong Top Travel Agents Celebration & Gala Dinner,” the HKTB highlighted Hong Kong’s capacity to host premium events and high-profile guests. The gala dinner, featuring an exquisite Cantonese tasting menu curated by five master chefs, not only celebrated culinary excellence but also emphasized Hong Kong’s dual identity as a luxury travel destination and a global MICE powerhouse.

Hong Kong’s Incentive Playbook 2.0: Driving High-Yield MICE Tourism

In tandem with the festival, the HKTB launched the “Hong Kong Incentive Playbook 2.0: New Discovery Product Update” at the Ocean Park Marriott Hotel. This initiative aims to drive high-yield MICE tourism through the introduction of innovative incentive products and tailored experiences for corporate events and incentive groups. By offering customized itineraries, luxury hotel stays, and exclusive gastronomic experiences, the Incentive Playbook 2.0 positions Hong Kong as a leading destination for incentive travel and corporate meetings.

The program also includes strategic partnerships with major airlines, hotels, and event planners to offer a seamless tourism experience for corporate clients. This innovative approach to MICE tourism not only caters to business visitors but also promotes Hong Kong’s global tourism appeal, encouraging high-spending tourists and business delegations to experience the city’s cultural richness alongside its luxury offerings.

Driving Sustainable Tourism and Culinary Innovation

The growing interest in sustainable tourism is a significant trend in the global tourism industry, and the Hong Kong Wine & Dine Festival addresses this by promoting eco-friendly practices and sustainable culinary tourism. With a focus on local sourcing, organic ingredients, and sustainable food practices, the festival underscores Hong Kong’s commitment to becoming a sustainable tourism destination. Local chefs and restaurant owners are encouraged to embrace eco-friendly practices, from zero-waste cooking to responsible sourcing of ingredients, ensuring that the culinary sector contributes to both economic growth and environmental sustainability.

The festival also emphasizes the importance of promoting sustainable tourism in local communities. By encouraging responsible travel and highlighting local food producers, farmers, and artisans, the event supports local economies while offering tourists an authentic and sustainable experience of Hong Kong.

Tourism and Cultural Exchange: The Power of Gastronomy

The Hong Kong Wine & Dine Festival is more than just a celebration of food—it is a platform for cultural exchange. Food tourism fosters cross-cultural understanding, as tourists can experience a destination’s cultural diversity through its culinary offerings. Hong Kong’s multicultural environment makes it a perfect location for showcasing how gastronomy can be a vehicle for cultural diplomacy and international collaboration. The festival brings together chefs, food experts, and international tourists, allowing them to share their culinary traditions, try new dishes, and learn from each other.

Encouraging Year-Round Tourism Through Culinary Events

The Wine & Dine Festival is part of HKTB’s larger strategy to increase year-round tourism in Hong Kong. By offering seasonal events such as the festival alongside year-round culinary experiences, the HKTB is helping to extend the appeal of Hong Kong as a culinary tourism destination. Whether it’s a Michelin-starred meal, a street food tour, or a private dining experience, Hong Kong’s gastronomy scene remains a year-round attraction for both tourists and business travelers.

Hong Kong’s Bright Future as a Global Tourism and Culinary Destination

With its exclusive combination of gastronomy, luxury tourism, and MICE tourism, the Hong Kong Wine & Dine Festival 2025 has re-established Hong Kong as a top global tourist destination. The HKTB’s multi-pronged strategy of tourism promotion through high-yield tourism, sustainable tourism, and culinary innovation puts Hong Kong in a cutting-edge position in the global tourism industry. With the city developing world-class tourism infrastructure and gastronomy offerings, it is poised to attract high-value travelers, business delegations, and foodies in search of an exciting, immersive destination for business and leisure travel.

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World Travel Market London 2025 DEAI Summit: Championing Diversity, Equity and Inclusion in Global Tourism, New Update is Here

WTM London 2025 will be a powerful platform for promoting Diversity, Equity, Accessibility, and Inclusion (DEAI) within global tourism. As part of its three-day conference, the event will feature a dedicated DEAI summit filled with discussions and presentations aimed at advancing these crucial principles. From tackling political challenges to highlighting economic successes, the summit will explore how the tourism industry can become more inclusive. This year’s programme is packed with thought-provoking sessions that explore the many facets of DEAI, ensuring it’s a crucial moment for change and inspiration in the travel industry.

WTM London’s DEAI Summit: A Platform for Progress

WTM London is committed to showcasing the importance of Diversity, Equity, Accessibility, and Inclusion (DEAI) in global tourism. The event, taking place from 5th November, will feature a packed three-day programme dedicated to advancing these principles. This year’s DEAI summit will be hosted at the Orange Theatre, where a series of powerful discussions and talks will take place. These sessions are designed to explore political challenges, economic opportunities, and the future of inclusive travel. The summit aims to highlight the travel industry’s responsibility in fostering inclusivity, ensuring that all travellers, regardless of background, feel welcomed and valued.

With the world watching, WTM London provides a stage for leaders and change-makers to come together and discuss real, actionable solutions to make travel more equitable. The summit will feature notable figures from across the industry, sharing their insights on how to break barriers, promote accessibility, and empower underrepresented communities. Through its DEAI-focused programming, WTM London continues to position itself as a driving force for positive change in the tourism sector.

Key DEAI Sessions to Look Out for at WTM London 2025

The DEAI summit at WTM London is packed with engaging sessions that cover various aspects of inclusivity in travel. Kicking off on 5th November, the summit will begin with “Reclaiming Inclusion,” hosted by Uwern Jong, WTM London’s DEAI Adviser. The session will set the tone for the summit by exploring how the travel industry can shift towards a more inclusive future. It will be followed by “A World Through Many Lenses,” led by BBC Travel Presenter Rajan Datar, which will discuss the importance of viewing the world through multiple perspectives, urging the industry to broaden its understanding of diverse traveller needs.

Later in the summit, “Everyone’s Welcome, or Are They?” will address the political rollback on DEAI and how the industry can rise to meet these challenges. Another important session, “More Than a Hashtag,” will delve into the importance of racial diversity in travel media, marketing, and public relations. These sessions will offer valuable insights into how travel companies can work to dismantle barriers and create a more inclusive tourism landscape.

Trailblazing Destinations Championing DEAI at WTM London

One of the standout features of the DEAI summit will be the session titled “Destinations with Heart.” This session will showcase trailblazing destinations that have embraced underserved traveller segments and made significant investments in accessibility. Representatives from Iceland, Malta, and Thailand will share their stories and discuss how these countries have successfully used inclusivity as both a competitive advantage and a community benefit.

Hanna Katrín Friðriksson, the Minister of Industries for Iceland, will discuss how Iceland has embraced accessibility in tourism, making it a welcoming destination for all. Tolene van der Merwe, Director of the Malta Tourism Authority, will present Malta’s commitment to inclusivity, highlighting its efforts to cater to diverse traveller needs. Chiravadee Khunsub, Deputy Governor for the Tourism Authority of Thailand, will also share how Thailand’s tourism initiatives have empowered marginalized communities. These countries prove that inclusivity not only benefits individuals but also strengthens the tourism industry as a whole.

Challenging the Norm: DEAI Talks on Queer Traveller Identities

Another crucial session, “Not Just One Story,” led by Aalap Shah, International Business Consultant for ELTA, will address the need for the travel industry to embrace the full spectrum of queer traveller identities. This session challenges the industry to go beyond the typical representation of cisgender, white, gay men and explore the experiences of other queer individuals, including transgender, non-binary, and people of colour within the queer community.

As the travel sector continues to evolve, it is essential to ensure that all travellers, regardless of their sexual orientation or gender identity, are represented in a fair and authentic way. This session aims to highlight the importance of inclusive marketing and communication strategies that reflect the diversity of the queer community and their travel needs. By expanding the narratives around queer travellers, the industry can foster a more inclusive and welcoming environment for everyone.

Overcoming Challenges: Leadership, Innovation, and Resilience in Travel Tech

The DEAI summit at WTM London will also feature an inspiring discussion on leadership, innovation, and resilience in the travel technology sector. The session, “Overcoming Adversity in Travel Tech,” will be led by Alka Carter-Manning, Chief Commercial Officer at Vox Group, and Maria von Foerster, CEO of RightRez. These influential women in the tech industry will share their insights into how the travel technology sector can drive inclusivity and innovation.

This session will discuss how technology can help address challenges in the travel sector, such as accessibility, gender equality, and racial diversity. By showcasing female leaders in tech, WTM London highlights the importance of diversity in the tech industry and how it can contribute to creating a more inclusive and innovative travel experience. This discussion will empower industry leaders to adopt new, inclusive technologies that make travel more accessible to all.

WTM London’s Ongoing Commitment to Inclusivity and Accessibility

In addition to the DEAI summit, WTM London remains committed to ensuring that 50% of speakers across its official conference programme are from underrepresented groups. This initiative is a reflection of the event’s commitment to fostering diversity and inclusivity within the tourism industry. Currently, 47% of speakers are from underrepresented groups, and this number is expected to rise as the event continues to prioritise diverse representation.

The event also offers a range of accessibility features to ensure that all attendees can participate fully. These include accessible session formats, inclusive bathrooms, multi-faith prayer rooms, and ‘reset rooms’ for neurodivergent attendees. By providing these facilities, WTM London demonstrates its commitment to creating a welcoming and inclusive environment for all visitors.

Inspiring Action for a More Inclusive Travel Industry

WTM London’s DEAI summit is a critical platform for advancing diversity, equity, accessibility, and inclusion within the global tourism industry. With its diverse range of sessions and expert speakers, the event will provide valuable insights into how the travel sector can foster greater inclusivity and tackle the challenges facing underrepresented communities. As tourism continues to be a major global industry, it is essential that it reflects the diversity of the world and works towards an inclusive future where everyone can travel freely and comfortably. WTM London is leading the way in making this vision a reality, and the DEAI summit is an important step towards achieving that goal.

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