Spain’s Madrid to Now Host WTTC’s Global Office, Boosting Tourism Industry Impact

Published on December 18, 2025

WTTC’s Operating Committee evaluated the potential locations based on six crucial criteria: office rental and operating costs, the tax and competitive environment, fast-track visas and work permit frameworks, government support, cost of living to attract and retain talent, and proximity to international organizations. Each of these factors plays a pivotal role in ensuring the efficient operation and growth of WTTC as a global entity.

Madrid’s competitive business environment, favorable tax structure, and government incentives made it a prime candidate. The Spanish government’s support was particularly instrumental in the decision, as it highlighted the country’s commitment to boosting the travel and tourism sector. Additionally, the ease of visa processing and work permit frameworks for international talent made Madrid an attractive location, especially in the context of post-Brexit challenges related to talent mobility.

WTTC’s leadership also recognized the importance of proximity to international organizations and agencies in the tourism sector, such as UN Tourism, which is based in Madrid. The city’s central location in Europe, along with its strong international connectivity via Madrid-Barajas Airport, ensures that WTTC can efficiently engage with stakeholders and collaborate on key global initiatives.

The Benefits of Establishing WTTC’s Global Office in Madrid

The selection of Madrid offers several strategic benefits for WTTC and its members. One of the primary advantages is access to a much broader and more diverse talent pool. With nearly 350 million qualified professionals across Europe and beyond, Madrid provides a vast workforce to support WTTC’s operations and growth. The city’s reputation as a hub for innovation and business makes it an ideal base for the council to expand its research capabilities and strengthen its advocacy efforts.

Manfredi Lefebvre, Chairman of WTTC, emphasized the importance of the new office location, stating that the decision reflects a clear understanding of what WTTC needs to succeed in the future. “This move ensures we operate more efficiently, deliver more value to our members, access the best global talent, and maintain a truly international outlook,” he explained. The move is not only designed to enhance operational efficiency but also to bolster WTTC’s capacity to influence global tourism policy and provide valuable insights to its members.

Gloria Guevara, interim President and CEO of WTTC, highlighted the importance of Spain’s support throughout the process. She thanked the government of Spain for prioritizing the travel and tourism industry, recognizing the sector’s significant role in driving global economic growth. The new office will allow WTTC to offer closer engagement with its members worldwide, advising on good policy development, tourism growth, and job creation.

How Madrid Will Foster Greater Collaboration in the Tourism Industry

Madrid’s selection as the new home of WTTC’s Global Office will play a key role in enhancing collaboration within the global tourism industry. By being centrally located in one of the world’s most important cultural and economic hubs, WTTC will be in a prime position to work closely with international organizations, government bodies, and the private sector to advance the sector’s interests.

The proximity to influential international tourism bodies, such as UN Tourism, strengthens Madrid’s role as a central meeting point for industry leaders and policymakers. This synergy will help WTTC further its mission of shaping tourism policies that support sustainable growth, enhance visitor experiences, and drive economic development worldwide. Furthermore, Madrid’s established reputation as a key destination for meetings and conferences will facilitate the council’s continued advocacy for the tourism sector, with easier access to global stakeholders.

WTTC’s role in the tourism ecosystem is crucial, especially in promoting sustainable and inclusive tourism practices. The new office will serve as a base for advancing these goals, focusing on collaboration between public and private sectors, promoting investment in the tourism industry, and encouraging responsible travel practices. The move to Madrid represents a broader strategy to position WTTC as a leading voice in the global tourism sector, ensuring that it can drive meaningful change and continue to support the industry’s recovery and growth post-pandemic.

A Boost for Spain’s Travel and Tourism Sector

The decision to establish WTTC’s Global Office in Madrid is not only beneficial for the council but also for Spain’s travel and tourism sector. The move brings increased visibility and importance to Madrid as a leading global tourism hub, attracting even more international tourists, business travelers, and industry experts. As a result, the local tourism sector is expected to experience an uptick in business, with more international events, conferences, and initiatives being hosted in the city.

Spain, already one of the world’s top tourist destinations, is poised to strengthen its position as a global leader in the tourism industry. The establishment of WTTC’s Global Office aligns with the country’s broader tourism strategy, which includes boosting business tourism, fostering sustainable practices, and supporting economic growth through the tourism sector. The influx of new opportunities for collaboration with WTTC will further enhance Spain’s appeal as a destination for global meetings, conferences, and events.

Looking Ahead: WTTC’s Vision for the Future

The decision to set up the Global Office in Madrid is a significant step for WTTC as it looks to the future of the tourism industry. As the world continues to recover from the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic, WTTC is focused on helping its members navigate the evolving landscape and build a more resilient, sustainable, and inclusive tourism sector.

In 2026, WTTC plans to reshape its operations with a renewed focus on member engagement, research capabilities, and government advocacy. The new office in Madrid will be at the heart of these efforts, providing a strong foundation for the council’s mission to support the global tourism industry and drive economic growth through innovation, collaboration, and policy development.

A New Era for WTTC and Global Tourism

The selection of Madrid to host the World Travel and Tourism Council’s new location of the Global Office marks the start of a new era not only for the World Travel and Tourism Council, but for the tourism industry at large. The World Travel and Tourism Council’s decision to relocate to Madrid positions the organization in a critical location that has immense connectivity to the rest of the world. The decision therefore positions the World Travel and Tourism Council to benefit the growth and development of the tourism industry, while at the same time remain a leading voice in the future of the tourism industry.