That was ITB Berlin 2026

Together through uncertain times: The industry relies on dialog

For its 60th anniversary , the world's leading B2B tourism trade fair brought together around 97,000 participants from numerous source and target markets. A total of 5,601 exhibitors from 166 countries presented themselves. Despite flight connections being restricted in some cases due to the Middle East conflict , the visitor numbers were almost at the previous year's level - a sign of the continued relevance of personal encounters, trust and international cooperation in the industry.

ITB Berlin also underlined its economic importance: business deals and purchasing decisions worth around 47 billion euros were made in direct connection with the trade fair.

The guest country at ITB Berlin 2026 was Angola , which presented its diverse landscape, cultural traditions and sustainable tourism development under the motto "The Rhythm of Life".

"In its anniversary year, ITB Berlin once again brought markets together, facilitated discussions about common perspectives and demonstrated its importance for international exchange and cooperation, especially in times of geopolitical tensions - particularly in the Middle East. As a mirror of the industry, it offered a reliable framework in which contacts could be made, ideas exchanged and business initiated," explains Dr. Mario Tobias , CEO of Messe Berlin.

ITB Berlin Convention: Focus on future topics

With over 24,000 participants, the ITB Berlin Convention confirmed its status as an international knowledge forum for the industry. Under the motto "Leading Tourism into Balance" , more than 400 speakers discussed topics such as artificial intelligence, sustainable growth, new market structures and resilience in around 200 sessions. The industry also addressed the challenges of an increasingly uncertain world - characterized by geopolitical tensions, climate risks and economic uncertainties.

At the same time, technological developments, especially artificial intelligence, are driving profound change - from personalized travel experiences to new booking systems. The focus was also on topics such as overtourism, destination management and trust in communication with travelers.

Cooperation for sustainable tourism

A strategic cooperation between Messe Berlin and the Green Destinations - Good Travel Community was also announced at the trade fair. The aim is to promote sustainable and responsible tourism and long-term destination development more strongly and to share the relevant knowledge.

ITB Berlin 2027 with new date

The next ITB Berlin will take place from March 16 to 18, 2027 . The one-off postponement is intended to enable Muslim exhibitors and visitors to celebrate the end of Ramadan and then take part in the trade show without restrictions.

The Maldives will be the official guest country at ITB Berlin 2027.