Malta. Photo: Shutterstock After its Tourism Authority (MTA) joined the World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC) as a Destination Partner at the end of August, Malta is bracing to welcome over 200 of the world’s leading Travel & Tourism executives.
The leaders will head to Malta next month as Valletta prepares to host the 26th WTTC Global Summit from October 7 to 9, 2026.
The annual gathering, organized by the World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC), brings together senior leaders from across the travel industry, governments and international organizations to discuss the challenges and opportunities shaping the sector.
The delegation includes executives from some of the biggest names in global travel. Among those confirmed are Hilton President and CEO Christopher J. Nassetta, IHG Hotels & Resorts Global CEO Elie Maalouf, Four Seasons President and CEO Alejandro Reynal, Capital A CEO Tony Fernandes, Trip.com Group CEO Jane Sun and MSC Group Cruise Division Executive Chairman Pierfrancesco Vago.
Senior representatives from companies including American Express Travel, Accor, Marriott International, Expedia Group, Iberostar, JPMorganChase, JTB, Technogym, VFS Global and Virtuoso will also attend.
Malta. Photo: Alex IgnaFor Malta, the summit offers a major opportunity to put the country in front of some of the most influential figures in international tourism. Many delegates will be visiting the island for the first time, giving Malta a chance to showcase its historic attractions, hospitality, connectivity and growing investment potential.
Blue Lagoon, Malta. Photo: Alex IgnaThe event will take place under the theme “FUTU[RE]SET: Shaping the Future of Travel & Tourism.” Discussions will examine how artificial intelligence, new technologies, changing traveler expectations and geopolitical developments are reshaping the industry.
A major focus will be the need for stronger cooperation between governments and the private sector. Leaders are expected to explore ways to encourage investment, improve competitiveness, strengthen resilience and support sustainable tourism growth.
WTTC President and CEO Gloria Guevara said bringing more than 200 industry leaders to Malta demonstrates the global importance of Travel & Tourism and provides an opportunity for executives to share ideas and strengthen cooperation.
Malta Tourism Authority CEO Carlo Micallef described the summit as a significant moment for the country, saying it would allow Malta to showcase its tourism offering while building relationships that could create investment and partnership opportunities beyond the three-day event.
The summit comes at an important time for Malta's tourism industry, with Travel & Tourism continuing to make a significant contribution to the country's economy and employment.
WTTC is also offering a limited number of Executive Access Passes to senior leaders from organizations outside its membership. The passes provide access to the summit program, networking opportunities and selected social events.