Travel, Tourism & Hospitality

ITB Berlin celebrates 60 years as landmark edition opens tomorrow

BERLIN
 ITB Berlin celebrates 60 years as landmark edition opens tomorrow

The global travel industry gathers in Germany’s capital tomorrow as ITB Berlin 2026 opens at Berlin ExpoCenter City from March  3–5, marking the event’s 60th anniversary. 

Held under the motto “Discover the stories behind 60 years of legacy,” this special edition celebrates six decades as the world’s leading travel trade platform.

Since its launch in 1966, ITB Berlin has evolved into the industry’s most influential marketplace and think tank. 

The exhibition floor is structured geographically by destinations and by key market segments including adventure tourism, business travel, luxury travel, medical tourism and travel technology. 

Running alongside the exhibition, the ITB Berlin Convention will once again convene global experts to debate the trends, innovations and technologies shaping the future of travel.

Last year’s edition drew more than 100,000 attendees, 5,800 exhibitors and representatives from over 170 countries — figures expected to be matched or exceeded this week.

The Middle East is set to command strong attention, with Egypt, Saudi Arabia and the UAE leading a surge of regional investment and high-end hospitality expansion. 

European buyers are increasingly seeking scalable premium offerings and AI-driven solutions that align with the Gulf’s rapid development.

This year’s Official Host Country is Angola, returning after a decade under the theme “The Rhythm of Life.”

Organisers have also introduced interactive anniversary features, including immersive installations, networking hubs and the debut of the ITB Americas initiative — reinforcing Berlin’s role at the centre of global tourism connectivity. -TradeArabia News Service