As part of the International Tourism Trade Fair (FITUR), FITUR Woman 2026 will stand out as a flagship event spotlighting women’s leadership, investment, and economic empowerment in the global tourism industry. The event will take place from 21–25 January 2026 at IFEMA MADRID, organised by FITUR in collaboration with Women Leading Tourism (WLT) and supported by the Puerto Rico Tourism Company.
The 2026 edition will centre on how investment and economic empowerment can act as catalysts for inclusive growth, sustainability, and female leadership across the tourism value chain.
The Strategic Focus of FITUR Woman 2026
Over recent years, FITUR Woman has evolved into a prominent international platform advocating gender equality and leadership opportunities within tourism. In 2026, the programme will emphasise:
- Investment in women-led tourism initiatives
- Financial inclusion and access to capital
- Education, skills development, and training
- Structural barriers to women’s advancement
- The economic impact of gender equality in tourism
The event will examine how empowering women economically strengthens not only communities but also the competitiveness and resilience of tourism destinations worldwide.
Puerto Rico’s Role in Promoting Inclusive Tourism
The Puerto Rico Tourism Company, a key supporter of FITUR Woman 2026, will showcase how public policy and destination strategy can actively promote women’s leadership. Puerto Rico’s participation highlights its commitment to:
- Female entrepreneurship in tourism
- Inclusive economic development
- Sustainable tourism models that benefit local communities
Through its involvement, Puerto Rico positions itself as a reference destination for gender-inclusive tourism development.
Programme Highlights: Challenges, Solutions and Best Practices
FITUR Woman 2026 will feature a full-day programme of expert panels, discussions, and an awards ceremony recognising impactful initiatives in women-led tourism.
Block One: Economic Empowerment and Opportunity
This session will explore financial inclusion, education, and skills training as tools to expand employment opportunities and female entrepreneurship. Discussions will also address policies that support work–life balance and pathways to leadership roles.
Block Two: Overcoming Structural Barriers
The second block will focus on persistent challenges such as the gender pay gap, job insecurity, and underrepresentation of women in decision-making roles. Speakers will also analyse how global disruptions—such as pandemics and economic crises—disproportionately affect women in tourism.
Block Three: Global Best Practices
The final block will highlight successful international case studies demonstrating how female leadership enhances innovation, sustainability, and destination competitiveness, with a strong focus on training, technology, and closing the skills gap.
FITUR Woman 2026: Driving Change in Global Tourism
As an integral part of FITUR, which attracts thousands of tourism leaders, policymakers, and entrepreneurs from around the world, FITUR Woman 2026 aims to drive long-term social and economic transformation within the industry.
The event offers:
- High-level networking opportunities
- Access to global investment perspectives
- Engagement with public and private sector leaders
- Insights into the future of inclusive tourism
Impact on Business Travel and Tourism Development
By promoting women in leadership and decision-making roles, FITUR Woman 2026 is expected to influence business tourism, destination management, and investment strategies. More inclusive leadership brings broader perspectives, stronger governance, and more sustainable tourism products.
For travellers, the event highlights destinations—such as Puerto Rico—that prioritise gender equality, empowerment, and responsible tourism.
Key Takeaways
- FITUR Woman 2026 will focus on economic empowerment, leadership, and sustainability in tourism
- Puerto Rico will showcase best practices in supporting women-led tourism initiatives
- The programme addresses barriers such as pay gaps, access to finance, and leadership inequality
- Business leaders and entrepreneurs will benefit from global networking and investment insights
- The event reinforces tourism’s role as a driver of inclusive and sustainable economic growth
FITUR Woman 2026 positions Madrid as a global hub for dialogue on women, investment, and the future of tourism, setting the agenda for a more inclusive industry worldwide.
