The World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC) has announced that its Global Summit 2026 will be held in Valletta, Malta, from October 7-9, bringing together some of the world’s most influential travel and tourism leaders.
The summit will convene CEOs, government ministers, investors and industry stakeholders to discuss the opportunities and challenges shaping the future of global travel, strengthen public-private collaboration and explore pathways for sustainable growth and investment.
The event comes as Malta continues to reinforce its position as one of Europe’s leading tourism-driven economies. According to WTTC’s latest Economic Impact Research, the travel and tourism sector is forecast to contribute US$4.9 billion to Malta’s economy in 2026, accounting for 16.9 per cent of GDP and supporting 72,200 jobs, equivalent to more than one in five jobs across the country.
Malta has experienced significant tourism growth over recent years, with international arrivals rising from 2.75 million in 2019 to four million in 2025. The destination’s visitor base remains well diversified, led by the United Kingdom, Italy and Poland, while international visitor spending is projected to exceed US$4 billion in 2026.
Looking ahead, WTTC forecasts that travel and tourism will contribute US$6.5 billion to Malta’s economy by 2036 and support more than 90,000 jobs, representing nearly a quarter of all employment nationwide.
Commenting on the summit, Gloria Guevara, President and CEO of WTTC, said,”Valletta provides an extraordinary setting for the conversations that will define the future of global Travel & Tourism. As one of Europe’s most historic and vibrant capitals, it offers the ideal backdrop for leaders to come together and explore the opportunities and challenges shaping the sector’s future and unlock new opportunities for sustainable growth.”
She added, “Malta represents exactly the kind of destination that is helping shape the future of Travel & Tourism. The country stands not only as a host nation, but as a destination that demonstrates how Travel & Tourism can drive prosperity, create opportunities and deliver long-term value for communities and businesses alike. With the sector set to support one in five jobs and contribute close to 17% of GDP, Malta demonstrates the transformative power of Travel & Tourism when it is guided by strategic vision, collaboration and innovation.”
The event will be hosted in collaboration with the Malta Tourism Authority and the Government of Malta.
Hon. Ian Borg, Malta’s Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Health, said, “When Malta committed to hosting WTTC’s Global Summit, it reflected our confidence in the strength of our tourism sector and our belief in its importance to our country’s future prosperity. The remarkable growth highlighted in WTTC’s latest numbers demonstrates the success of Malta’s long-term vision and the strong collaboration between government and industry. We look forward to welcoming global leaders to Valletta this October and showcasing Malta’s unique ability to combine economic success, sustainability and world-class visitor experiences.”
Dr. Jo Etienne Abela, Malta’s Minister for Tourism, said, “Travel & Tourism is one of Malta’s great success stories and a vital driver of jobs, investment and opportunity across our islands. As we prepare to welcome delegates from around the world for WTTC’s Global Summit, we have a unique opportunity to highlight Malta’s achievements while engaging with industry leaders on the future of the sector. We look forward to hosting the world’s foremost Travel & Tourism event and demonstrating why Malta continues to be one of Europe’s most dynamic and attractive destinations.”
