Countdown to FITUR 2025: The Key Global Event for the Tourism Industry
The International Tourism Trade Fair (FITUR), organized by IFEMA MADRID, is set to bring together the global tourism market for its 45th edition, running from January 22 to 26. FITUR 2025 highlights the exceptional performance of the tourism industry in 2024 and its optimistic outlook for the coming year. With the theme of innovation, sustainability, and inclusivity, the event promises to celebrate the transformative role of tourism in the global economy.
FITUR 2025 reaffirms its position as the leading international tourism fair by volume of participants and attendees. With 9,500 participating companies, 156 countries represented, and 884 main exhibitors, the fair has expanded by 10% overall and 19% in international representation. Projections estimate over 150,000 professional attendees from Wednesday to Friday and an additional 100,000 public visitors during the weekend, generating an economic impact of €445 million for Madrid.
Brazil takes center stage as the Partner Country for this year’s edition, showcasing its diverse tourism offerings. Brazil experienced a record-breaking year in 2024, welcoming 6,657,377 foreign visitors—a 12.6% increase from 2023. The South American nation’s significant presence at FITUR aims to strengthen its global positioning as a premier travel destination.
FITUR continues to emphasize its global appeal by welcoming five new official country representations, bringing the total to 101. Eleven new nations, primarily from Africa and Asia, join this year’s edition, reflecting the fair’s commitment to fostering international collaboration. The Travel Technology area has also grown by 6%, presenting advancements in booking technologies and innovative solutions by over 100 global companies.
In line with its focus on sustainability and inclusivity, FITUR has expanded its thematic sections to address emerging trends. Highlights include FITUR Cruises, emphasizing eco-conscious cruising; FITUR LGTB+, promoting diversity in tourism; and FITUR Lingua, exploring language tourism opportunities. Other key areas like FITUR Screen, FITUR Sports, and FITUR Techy will spotlight the intersections of tourism with cinema, sports, and technology, respectively.
With sustainability and innovation as guiding principles, FITUR 2025 underscores the future of tourism. The fair’s dedication to accessible travel will be featured through FITUR 4all, which includes the second FITUR 4all Awards and the debut of the Best Practices Guide for accessible tourism. FITUR Talent will address training and talent gaps, while FITUR Woman will champion female leadership in the industry. As FITUR opens the global tourism calendar, it cements its role as a key driver of growth, collaboration, and innovation in the sector.
