The World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC) has announced that its prestigious Global Summit will return to Europe in 2025, with Rome set to host the 25th edition of the event from September 28-30. This marks a significant occasion as the Global Summit makes its first return to Europe in six years, following the success of the 2024 edition in Perth, Australia.

The WTTC Global Summit, widely regarded as the most important annual gathering in the travel and tourism sector, will bring together top business leaders, government representatives, and industry experts to discuss the key challenges and opportunities shaping the future of global tourism. The event will be held at the iconic Auditorium Parco della Musica in Rome.

This year’s summit is being organized in collaboration with the Italian Ministry of Tourism, the Italian National Tourist Board (ENIT), the Municipality of Rome, and the Lazio Region. With a focus on critical topics such as digital transformation, regenerative tourism, and investment strategies, the event promises to drive meaningful discussions on the sector’s evolution and future growth.

A Spectacular Setting for a Landmark Event

WTTC President & CEO, Julia Simpson, expressed her enthusiasm for bringing the summit to Rome, one of the world’s most visited cities. “I’m delighted to be bringing our Global Summit back to Europe, to shine a spotlight on the iconic city of Rome,” she said. “One of the world’s most popular city destinations, Rome will provide the perfect setting for our Members, government representatives, and distinguished guests, who will travel from all corners of the globe. I would like to thank Minister Santanchè and ENIT for hosting our Global Summit, which I am sure will be a spectacular event.”

Italian Minister of Tourism, Daniela Santanchè, also emphasized the significance of the event, stating, “It is with great enthusiasm that we welcome to Rome the 25th WTTC Global Summit, an event of international significance that will highlight the crucial role of tourism in the global economy. With its millennial history and ability to attract visitors from every corner of the world, Rome is the ideal stage to host this meeting. Italy is ready to seize the opportunity to strengthen its leading position in the tourism sector by promoting sustainability, digital innovation, and experiential tourism.”

A Legacy of Influential Voices

The WTTC Global Summit has a history of hosting some of the most influential figures in global politics and business. The 2024 edition in Perth featured keynote speeches from former U.S. Secretary of State John Kerry, who addressed pressing climate concerns, and renowned conservationist Robert Irwin, who highlighted the responsibility of the tourism sector in protecting natural habitats.

Previous summits have welcomed distinguished speakers, including former U.S. Presidents Barack Obama and Bill Clinton, former UK Prime Ministers Theresa May, David Cameron, and Tony Blair, and former United Nations Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon.

Looking Ahead to WTTC Global Summit 2025

The upcoming Global Summit in Rome aims to further shape the future of the tourism industry by fostering collaboration between public and private stakeholders. Discussions will center on sustainable tourism, technological advancements, and investment opportunities that can ensure long-term growth and resilience in the sector.

Further details, including the full program and speaker lineup, will be announced in the coming months. The 25th WTTC Global Summit is set to be a landmark event, reaffirming the importance of travel and tourism as a key pillar of the global economy.