Malta to Host WTTC Global Summit in 2026
The World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC) has announced that its 26th Global Summit will be held in Valletta, Malta in 2026, positioning the Mediterranean nation as the epicenter of global tourism dialogue. The announcement was made in Rome during the closing ceremony of the 25th WTTC Global Summit, which gathered thousands of industry leaders from across the world.
The 2026 edition is being organized in partnership with Malta’s Ministry for Foreign Affairs & Tourism, the Malta Tourism Authority, and the Government of Malta. The summit will bring together influential figures from both the public and private sectors to address the industry’s future, with a focus on innovation, resilience, sustainability, and long-term growth.
Valletta, a UNESCO World Heritage City, was chosen as the host city for its cultural significance, architectural beauty, and strategic position in the Mediterranean. Dubbed the “Jewel of the Mediterranean,” Malta’s capital will provide an extraordinary backdrop for high-level discussions, networking, and knowledge-sharing sessions. Over three days, the summit will serve as a platform to forge partnerships, drive sustainable investment, and emphasize the role of tourism in global economic development.
“We are thrilled to bring the WTTC Global Summit to Valletta, one of Europe’s most beautiful capitals,” said Gloria Guevara, Interim CEO of WTTC. “Malta will provide an extraordinary setting as leaders from around the world come together to shape the future of Travel & Tourism. This year alone, we project Malta’s sector will contribute €3.6 billion to the economy, a 43.5% increase over 2019, and support one in five jobs nationwide.”
Malta’s Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Foreign Affairs & Tourism, Hon. Ian Borg, celebrated the announcement as a landmark achievement: “Hosting the Global Summit in Valletta confirms Malta’s growing role as a thought leader in global tourism. This will give us an unparalleled opportunity to showcase our digital heritage, innovation, and hospitality, while placing Malta at the forefront of sustainability and resilience discussions.”
Echoing this sentiment, Carlo Micallef, CEO of the Malta Tourism Authority, noted that the summit represents both recognition and opportunity: “This event will attract the most influential decision-makers from across the globe, providing a unique chance to position Malta as a dynamic, innovative, and sustainable destination. Beyond its immediate economic benefits, it will reinforce Malta’s reputation as a centre of excellence in tourism.”
WTTC Chair Manfredi Lefebvre added: “The Global Summit in Valletta is a remarkable opportunity for Malta to showcase its rich history, vibrant culture, and amazing hospitality. From its ancient temples to Valletta’s baroque architecture, Malta’s cultural richness is a treasure trove waiting to be explored. This event will drive investment and collaboration, fostering sustainable practices and long-term growth in an evolving world.”
Further details on the 2026 programme, speakers, and registration will be revealed in the coming months. The 25th edition in Rome was widely hailed as a success, with record levels of participation and commitments to advance the industry’s resilience and sustainability.
