Rome to Host WTTC Global Tourism Summit This September
This September, Rome will take center stage in global tourism discourse as it hosts the 25th edition of the World Travel & Tourism Council’s (WTTC) Global Summit. Scheduled for September 28–30 at the Auditorium Parco della Musica, the event will convene global CEOs, government ministers, mayors, and industry leaders to address the sector’s most urgent challenges and emerging innovations. Organized in partnership with Italy’s Ministry of Tourism, ENIT, the Municipality of Rome, and the Lazio Region, the Summit reinforces Italy’s pivotal role in shaping the future of global tourism.
Centered around the theme of bold thinking and collective action, the Summit’s agenda will explore diverse topics—from AI’s role in travel and sustainable aviation to destination stewardship and fashion tourism. WTTC President & CEO Julia Simpson hailed Italy as an “ideal setting” to highlight tourism’s power to inspire, connect, and excel. The event will also feature a significant leadership moment, as current WTTC Chair Greg O’Hara passes the baton to Manfredi Lefebvre, Executive Chairman of Abercrombie & Kent and Crystal Cruises.
Italy’s far-reaching impact on the travel sector will be prominently showcased, with representation from its cruise, hospitality, wellness, and luxury fashion industries. Manfredi Lefebvre noted that Rome offers a compelling platform to explore themes of sustainability and innovation, positioning tourism as a bridge-builder that transcends borders and fosters global unity. With the sector projected to grow nearly four times faster than the global economy, the Summit will spotlight tourism’s potential to generate employment, promote sustainability, and strengthen cultural exchange.
Alongside its economic influence, the WTTC Summit will celebrate Italy’s “Grande Bellezza”—from its historic architecture and culinary heritage to its leadership in hosting global events like the Ryder Cup and America’s Cup. As the fourth most-visited country in Europe, Italy’s tourism story serves as both an inspiration and a guide for a future where excellence and sustainability go hand in hand.
