ITB Berlin 2024 kicked off with a resounding success as the Berliner Exhibition Grounds witnessed exceptional bookings, securing over 90% of the expansive 150,000 square meters. International participation reached an all-time high at 87%, setting a record for the World’s Leading Travel Trade Show. The ITB Buyers Circle, boasting 1,300 senior buyers, reaffirms the event's global significance, reflecting the vibrant dynamics of the travel industry.
Highlighted by robust growth in Mobility, Travel Technology, and Cruise segments, the event hosts more than 5,500 exhibitors from 170 countries, showcasing the diverse landscape of the travel sector. The inclusion of the Host Country Oman and other Arab states further underscores the international character of the gathering. Notably, the ITB Berlin Convention, a hub for industry innovation, features prominent figures from booking.com, TUI, Phocuswright, and Google, offering insights into shaping the future of tourism.
Dr. Mario Tobias, CEO of Messe Berlin, emphasized the global stature of ITB Berlin as a pivotal meeting point for the entire tourism value chain. The event, under the theme #ITBTOGETHER, reinforces its role as a premier international trade show and expert forum, addressing challenges such as climate change, AI integration, and skills shortages through collaborative efforts.
The Official Host Country, the Sultanate of Oman, resonates with the event's theme, "Beauty Has An Address." Oman's prominent presence in Halls 2.2 and 4.1, sponsorship of the ITB Blogger Base, and partnership in the ITB MICE Night showcase the country's 5,000 years of history and cultural richness.
The ITB Berlin Convention, themed 'Pioneer the Transition in Travel & Tourism. Together,' explores global trends across 17 theme tracks and four live stages. With 200 sessions featuring industry experts from renowned entities like Booking.com, Phocuswright, TUI, Google, and Microsoft, the convention delves into critical topics including travel technology, sustainability, and the future of work.
The ITB Buyers Circle collaborated with Dr. Fried & Partner in the Global Travel Buyer Index (GTBI), offering valuable insights into the economic mood of the industry. Europe remains the dominant source market, with positive sentiments among buyers and optimistic forecasts for the future.
The ITB Innovation Radar, now in its second edition, unveils 16 innovations ranging from AI-driven hotel booking improvements to sustainable concepts and B2B services. The event provides a glimpse into the future of travel with offerings from industry visionaries like Mastercard, Tomorrow's Air, and HiJiffy.
IPK International's World Travel Monitor® findings reveal a substantial increase in outbound travel in 2023, approaching pre-pandemic levels. Spain retains its position as the most-visited destination, and Dubai earns top ratings, indicating a strong recovery in travel interest and spending.
ITB Berlin remains committed to fostering face-to-face interactions, offering networking opportunities through events like the ITB Speed Networking and ITB MICE Night. The event provides a unique platform for business, networking, and content, reinforcing its status as the industry's premier in-person meeting place.
For those unable to attend physically, a comprehensive digital ticket ensures access to the virtual supporting platform, ITBxplore, with new features to enhance the remote participation experience. ITB Berlin 2024 continues to shape the future of the travel industry, uniting global stakeholders under the banner of #ITBTOGETHER.
The event's slogan embodies the spirit of unity as industry professionals gather to explore, connect, and shape the future of travel.
