The World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC) has launched a global initiative to identify the 7 Contemporary Wonders of the World, inviting people worldwide to nominate landmarks and buildings created since 1801 that have made a significant contribution to travel, tourism, local communities and economic development.
The year-long campaign seeks to establish a new global benchmark for contemporary landmarks by recognising destinations that have not only achieved architectural or cultural significance but have also transformed local economies, attracted investment and created employment opportunities.
According to WTTC, the initiative will recognise both globally renowned attractions and emerging landmarks that have had a meaningful impact on their communities and continue to shape the future of tourism destinations.
Examples of contemporary landmarks include the Eiffel Tower in Paris, the Guggenheim Museum in Bilbao and the Grand Egyptian Museum in Giza, which WTTC said have helped redefine the global identity of their respective destinations while generating long-term economic and tourism benefits.
The organisation said the campaign aims to highlight the role of tourism assets as strategic infrastructure at a time when governments are seeking new avenues for economic growth and resilience. In addition to their cultural significance, iconic attractions can stimulate investment, support local businesses and strengthen destination competitiveness through public-private collaboration.
Landmarks will be assessed on multiple criteria, including tourism contribution, economic impact, community value, destination development, and cultural and architectural significance.
The campaign will be conducted in four stages:
- July 7, 2026: Global nominations open
- January 7, 2027: Announcement of 70 nominees and commencement of public voting
- April 7, 2027: Shortlist reduced to 30 finalists
- July 7, 2027: Announcement of the 7 Contemporary Wonders of the World
Commenting on the initiative, Gloria Guevara, President & CEO, WTTC, said, “Wonder is not something humanity stopped creating centuries ago. Every generation leaves its mark on the world. We are inviting people everywhere to help recognise the landmarks that have defined the modern age and will continue to inspire new ways of experiencing the world. The most influential tourism assets do far more than attract visitors. They create jobs, stimulate investment, support local businesses, strengthen communities and enhance the global profile of destinations. We want to showcase how visionary investments in tourism infrastructure and cultural assets can deliver lasting economic and social value for generations.”
WTTC said the initiative is intended to demonstrate how travel and tourism can drive inclusive economic growth, encourage investment and inspire the development of future destinations by recognising landmarks that continue to shape the way people travel around the world.
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