The 44th International Tourism Fair (FITUR) has announced a 13.7 per cent increase in visitors compared to 2023, in line with the estimate provided by IFEMA MADRID. Throughout its five days (January 24 to 28), Fitur welcomed a total of 250,000 visitors, out of which 153,000 were professionals (from January 24 to 26) and 97,000 visitors attended during its two open-to-public days (Saturday 27, and Sunday 28). This influx of visitors is expected to generate around €430 million in revenue for Madrid.
FITUR 2024 has also stood out for breaking the record for exhibition space, with a total of nine pavilions, one more than in 2023, as well as for the consolidation of its international character.
Ecuador was the Country Partner of FITUR 2024 and the participation of all players in the tourism industry value chain were present, showcasing the sector’s dynamism through numerous business transactions, expanded networks, and the exchange of best practices and knowledge.
The official report of FITUR 2024 reveals record-breaking participation figures with 9,000 companies, 152 countries, 96 official representations (20 more than in 2023), 806 main exhibitors, 9 pavilions, 10 monographic sections for tourist segments and the work carried out by the FITURNEXT Observatory as a channel for the sustainable commitment of the International Tourism Fair.
This 44th edition, like every year, in addition to the support of the international tourism sector, highlights the strong institutional support received. Alongside the Royal Family’s demonstration of support for the tourism industry, with the presence of Their Majesties King Felipe and Queen Letizia, FITUR had the participation of prominent leaders such as Daniel Noboa, President of Ecuador, who was the Country Partner of the International Tourism Fair this year.
It also received the official visit of the Prime Minister of Spain, Pedro Sánchez; the Prime Minister of Albania, Edi Rama; representatives from the UNTWO together with its Secretary-General, Zurab Pololikashvili, the Ibero-American General Secretary, as well as more than ten regional presidents of Spain. In total, the Fair brought together the presence of nearly 400 authorities, including Ministers, State Secretaries, ambassadors, business representatives, and mayors from different regions.
IFEMA MADRID is already working towards FITUR 2025, which will take place from January 22 to 26, with Mexico taking over as the Country Partner.