 |
| Madrid |
The World Travel & Tourism Council has confirmed Madrid, Spain, as the location of its new Global Office, marking a significant milestone for the global travel and tourism sector. Following an extensive strategic review, WTTC’s Operating Committee unanimously endorsed the Spanish capital as the destination best positioned to support the organisation’s long-term mission of maximising tourism’s economic and social potential worldwide.
The decision reflects a broader shift in global tourism leadership, with Madrid emerging as a centre for innovation, policy influence and international collaboration. The new Global Office will strengthen WTTC’s ability to deliver tangible value to its members while driving sustainable growth across the travel and tourism industry.
Why Madrid Emerged as the Clear Winner
Five destinations formally expressed interest in hosting the WTTC Global Office, including Dubai, France, Italy, Switzerland and Spain. Each was assessed against a rigorous set of criteria covering operating costs, tax and incentive environments, government support, visa and work permit frameworks, cost of living, and proximity to international organisations.Madrid stood out for its competitive business environment, favourable tax conditions, strong government backing and streamlined visa processes. Lower operating costs and a high quality of life were also key factors in the final decision, supporting WTTC’s ambition to attract and retain world-class global talent.
Challenges linked to Brexit, particularly around talent mobility, further influenced the strategic shift away from the United Kingdom, as WTTC seeks greater agility and a truly international operational base.
Access to Talent, Connectivity and Global Influence
Establishing a Global Office in Madrid gives WTTC immediate access to a vastly expanded talent pool of nearly 350 million qualified professionals across the wider region. This enhanced access supports deeper member engagement, stronger research capability and more effective global advocacy.Madrid’s international connectivity through Adolfo Suárez Madrid–Barajas Airport, one of Europe’s leading aviation hubs, further reinforces its suitability as a global headquarters. The city’s proximity to key international organisations, including UN Tourism, enables closer collaboration on policy development, investment strategies and sustainable tourism growth.
Strengthening WTTC’s Global Leadership Role
The new Madrid office will play a central role within WTTC’s worldwide network, supporting its respected advocacy, research and member engagement activities across all regions. The move aligns closely with Spain’s long-standing commitment to travel and tourism as a driver of economic growth, employment and innovation.WTTC Chairman Manfredi Lefebvre said the unanimous decision reflects a clear vision for the organisation’s future, ensuring operational efficiency, enhanced value for members and access to the best global talent. He confirmed that 2026 will be a transformative year, with WTTC reshaping its focus around stronger research capability and deeper government advocacy.
Interim President and CEO Gloria Guevara highlighted Spain’s understanding of tourism’s critical contribution to global growth, noting that Madrid’s competitiveness will enable WTTC to play an even greater role in advising on policy, investment and job creation worldwide.
A Global Signal of Confidence in Spain and Madrid
WTTC’s decision sends a strong message about Madrid’s rising influence as a global tourism hub and Spain’s leadership in the international travel and tourism sector. As the industry navigates evolving economic, social and environmental challenges, the new Global Office positions WTTC to lead with greater impact, collaboration and foresight.For more information on the World Travel & Tourism Council and its global initiatives, visit:
https://wttc.org
For more travel inspiration read the daily online "The Holiday and Travel Magazine" https://theholidayandtravelmagazine.blogspot.com/
No comments:
Post a Comment