King and Queen of Spain Inaugurate FITUR 2026 Tourism Fair in Madrid

Their Majesties the King and Queen of Spain presided over the official opening of FITUR 2026, reinforcing the strategic importance of tourism as a key driver of economic growth, innovation and international cooperation. The 46th edition of the International Tourism Trade Fair, organised by IFEMA MADRID, and held annually in January in Madrid, brings together the global tourism industry at a pivotal moment for the sector.

Their Majesties signed the book of condolences for the victims of the Adamuz railway accident at the Andalusia stand, marking a moment of remembrance and solidarity within the institutional programme.

Upon arrival at IFEMA MADRID, Their Majesties were received by Isabel Díaz Ayuso, President of the Community of Madrid; Jordi Hereu, Minister of Industry, Trade and Tourism, José Luis Martínez-Almeida, Mayor of Madrid, and José Vicente de los Mozos, President of the Executive Committee of IFEMA MADRID.

During the inaugural tour, the King and Queen visited several exhibition pavilions to learn first-hand about the proposals, innovations and destinations showcased at FITUR 2026. Their presence underscored the Crown’s continued support for a sector that plays a fundamental role in Spain’s economy and international standing, while also acting as a platform for dialogue between public institutions and private stakeholders worldwide.

One of the highlights of the visit was Mexico’s stand in Pavilion 3, as the country participated this year as Partner Country of FITUR. Their Majesties were presented with Mexico’s tourism strategy, focus on cultural heritage, sustainability and experience travel.

The royal tour also included the Knowledge Hub in Pavilion 12, a central feature of this year’s fair and a reflection of FITUR’s evolving role beyond destination promotion. During the professional days, the Knowledge Hub brings together more than 250 international experts and over 190 travel technology companies, offering forums on innovation, digital transformation, sustainability and best practices shaping the future of global tourism.
 

Further underscoring FITUR 2026’s role as a catalyst for transformative developments in the sector, the World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC) used the fair to formalize a major strategic shift. At the world’s leading tourism trade fair, the WTTC formally signed a Memorandum of Understanding with the Ministry of Industry and Tourism of Spain and the Madrid City Council, confirming the relocation of the WTTC’s Global Headquarters to Madrid.

The agreement marks a historic milestone for global tourism governance and positions the Spanish capital as the world’s new hub for strategic leadership in travel and tourism—joining UN Tourism’s headquarters in Madrid and elevating the city’s influence in shaping the future of the industry.

The signing, signals a new era for the sector. Having previously operated from London since 1990, WTTC cited Madrid’s competitive advantages—including strong government support, a vibrant tourism ecosystem, and enhanced talent mobility—as key factors in the decision. This move not only strengthens Spain’s position as a global tourism powerhouse but also fosters closer collaboration between leading international bodies, reinforcing Madrid’s emergence as the epicentre of worldwide tourism policy and innovation.

FITUR 2026 Closing Highlights

The International Tourism Trade Fair concluded on a highly positive note, welcoming over 255,000 visitors across its five-day run. Professional attendance stood at 155,000, matching the prior edition while achieving a 12% rise in international participation (aligned with 11% growth in international exhibitors). Weekend public attendance remained robust at 100,000 travellers. These strong figures—including 967 exhibiting companies—reinforce FITUR’s position as a top international tourism event in the region. The fair generated an economic impact of €505 million for Madrid, sustaining 3,753 jobs and boosting the local and national economy.

FITUR once again positions Madrid as the epicentre of global tourism discussion, generating business opportunities and advancing a more resilient, inclusive future for the industry. IFEMA MADRID is already preparing FITUR 2027, which will feature Puerto Rico as Partner Country.

This information is free for editorial use and has been published with PressPage, world leader in software for newsrooms and PR purposes.

Photos © Casa de S.M. el Rey and @ifema 

More press info at the Ifema newsroom