WTTC Brings Global Tourism Leaders to Valletta as Malta’s Travel and Tourism Sector Continues to Thrive

Valletta will take centre stage this October as the World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC) brings together the world's most influential Travel & Tourism leaders for its Global Summit, taking place from 7–9 October 2026.

Event Overview
- Dates: 7–9 October 2026
- Location: Valletta, Malta
- Participants: CEOs, government ministers, investors, and innovators from across the global Travel & Tourism sector.
- Focus: Opportunities and challenges shaping the future of travel, strengthening public-private collaboration, and pathways for sustainable growth.

Economic Impact (2026):
- Contribution: US$4.9 billion (16.9% of GDP).
- Jobs: 72,200 supported (over 1 in 5 jobs nationwide).

Visitor Growth:
- International arrivals rose from 2.75 million (2019) to 4 million (2025).
- Visitor mix led by the UK (21%), Italy (15%), Poland (10%), France (7%), Germany (7%).

Spending:
- International visitor spending projected at US$4 billion in 2026, rising to US$5 billion by 2036.
- Domestic spending forecast at US$378.5 million in 2026.

Future Outlook (2036):
- Contribution: US$6.5 billion.
- Jobs: 90,000+, nearly a quarter of national employment.

Leadership Voices
- Gloria Guevara (WTTC CEO): Valletta offers an extraordinary setting to define the future of Travel & Tourism and unlock sustainable growth.
- Hon. Ian Borg (Deputy PM & Health Minister): Hosting reflects Malta’s confidence in tourism’s role in prosperity.
- Dr. Jo Etienne Abela (Tourism Minister): Tourism is Malta’s success story and vital driver of jobs, investment, and opportunity.

Why It Matters
- Malta is positioning itself as a model destination balancing growth, sustainability, and year-round value.
- The summit will spotlight Malta’s achievements while shaping global tourism policy and investment strategies.
- With tourism supporting nearly 1 in 5 jobs, Malta exemplifies how strategic vision and collaboration can transform economies.

This summit is not just a showcase—it’s a platform for global decision-making on the future of travel.