FITUR 2025 breaks records and reaffirms its leadership in the tourism industry

27-01-25

The International Tourism Trade Fair (FITUR) concluded its 45th edition with unprecedented success, consolidating its position as the global benchmark event in the tourism sector. Organized by IFEMA MADRID, this edition exceeded all expectations, reaching an attendance of nearly 255,000 visitors. It is worth highlighting the increase in the number of tourism professionals during the first three days, with a total of 155,000 specialized attendees. These figures not only reflect the growth of FITUR, but also demonstrate the strength of world tourism and its key role in the global economy.

The data recorded at FITUR 2025 confirm the strong momentum of the sector in a context of full recovery. According to UN Tourism, 1.4 billion international arrivals will be recorded in 2024, consolidating tourism as one of the main economic drivers. Spain and Madrid, in this scenario, have reached historic figures with 94 and 16 million visitors, respectively. In addition, global tourism-related revenues have amounted to US$1.9 trillion, while Spain has recorded growth in tourism spending to 126 billion euros and Madrid to 16 billion. These indicators suggest that in 2025 the upward trend will continue, driven by a growing demand for travel experiences and exploration.

Under the slogan 'Proud. We are Tourism', the 2025 edition of FITUR has placed special emphasis on sustainability as a fundamental pillar for ensuring balanced and responsible tourism development. The fair brought together experts and industry leaders to discuss innovative strategies focused on diversification of supply, the deseasonalization of tourism and the integration of new technologies. These elements are driving tourism to become more inclusive, competitive and committed to the environment. Among the trends highlighted was the importance of modalities such as sports, film and language tourism, which contribute to the growth of the sector in a sustainable and equitable manner.

The participation of the Tourism and Society Think Tank (TSTT), which has presented important programs focused on the diversification and specialization of global tourism, as well as the signing of collaboration agreements with institutions and countries around the world.

Among them was the World Religious Tourism Network, an initiative designed to strengthen the connection between spiritual destinations and pilgrims from around the world, promoting enriching tourism experiences that are respectful of cultural and religious heritage.

It has also promoted the World Cocoa and Derivatives Tourism Destinations Network, a project that highlights the value of gastronomic tourism around the production and culture of cocoa, a booming sector that fuses history, tradition and sensory experiences. This initiative seeks to connect producers, destinations and tourists interested in discovering the history and impact of cocoa in different regions of the world, promoting sustainability and fair trade.

Another highlight was the presentation of the Alianza de Turismo Accesible, a collaborative effort to ensure that the tourism industry moves towards a more inclusive model. 

The main objective of this alliance is to promote universal accessibility in tourism destinations, ensuring that people with disabilities and reduced mobility can enjoy barrier-free travel experiences. The proposal includes the implementation of adequate infrastructure, the development of specialized guides and the training of sector professionals in accessibility practices.

One of the major issues addressed in this edition was the challenge of ensuring sustainable tourism without compromising the right to travel for future generations. 

The fair highlighted the need to implement responsible management models that balance the growth of the sector with the preservation of natural resources and respect for local communities. Experts have agreed that the application of digital technologies and artificial intelligence tools can play a key role in optimizing the tourism experience and reducing environmental impact.

FITUR 2025 has counted with Brazil as a Partner Country, which has made it possible to showcase the cultural wealth and tourism opportunities of this nation. The official inauguration was presided over by Their Majesties the King and Queen of Spain, who toured the fair and learned first-hand about the innovations and proposals that will shape the future of the sector. The participation of all the agents in the tourism value chain has been key to making this edition a resounding success, fostering strategic meetings, the signing of commercial agreements and the exchange of knowledge and best practices for the sustainable development of the sector.

With its sights set on the future, IFEMA MADRID is already working on the next edition of FITUR, to be held from January 21-25, 2026, with Mexico as a Partner Country. It is expected that this new event will continue to break records and reaffirm the importance of FITUR as the benchmark event for the global tourism industry. Expectations are high, and all indications are that the fair will continue to be an essential meeting point for professionals and key players in tourism, driving growth and innovation in a constantly evolving sector.

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