ITB Berlin 2025, the world’s leading travel trade show, officially opened on Tuesday, March 4, with a vibrant cultural celebration hosted by Albania, this year’s official partner country. The event, held at CityCube Berlin, set the stage for three days of networking, innovation, and collaboration under the theme “All Senses.”
The opening ceremony featured high-profile attendees, including Kai Wegner, Governing Mayor of Berlin, and Dieter Janecek, Federal Government Coordinator for the Maritime Industry and Tourism. Industry leaders such as Julia Simpson, President and CEO of the World Travel and Tourism Council (WTTC), and Zurab Pololikashvili, Secretary-General of the United Nations World Tourism Organization (UN Tourism), were also present. Dr. Mario Tobias, CEO of Messe Berlin, represented the organizers of ITB Berlin.
Following the ceremony, Albania hosted a culinary reception curated by renowned chef Genti Malaveci. Guests enjoyed traditional Mediterranean dishes, highlighting the country’s rich gastronomic heritage.
Record Participation and Industry Optimism
This year’s ITB Berlin boasts fully booked exhibition halls, with a record 5,800 exhibitors from over 170 countries—a 5% increase compared to 2024. The event also features the ITB Buyers Circle, which includes 1,300 senior buyers, reflecting the industry’s strong recovery and growth.
The travel sector’s rebound from the COVID-19 pandemic is evident across key segments, including cruises, travel technology, and emerging markets in Southern Europe, Asia, Africa, and the Arab states. Albania, this year’s host country, is showcasing its tourism potential under the slogan “Albania All Senses.”
Focus on Innovation and Future Trends
The ITB Berlin Convention, themed “The Power of Transition Lives Here,” will address the challenges and opportunities facing the global travel industry. High-profile speakers from companies such as Expedia, Google, Booking.com, TUI, and Ryanair will share insights on the latest trends and innovations.
According to the World Travel Monitor by IPK International, outbound travel in 2024 grew by 13%, reaching pre-pandemic levels seen in 2019. This positive trend is mirrored at ITB Berlin, where high booking levels and an optimistic atmosphere underscore the industry’s recovery.
Dr. Mario Tobias, CEO of Messe Berlin, emphasized the event’s significance: “ITB Berlin 2025 not only offers an unparalleled industry experience but also drives future-oriented growth in global tourism. With extensive international participation and innovative formats, ITB Berlin continues to set the pace for digital networking and international cooperation.”
A Legacy of Excellence
Since its inception in 1966, ITB Berlin has been the world’s premier travel trade show, attracting over 5,500 exhibitors from 170 countries and nearly 100,000 visitors annually. This year, ITB 360°, the event’s year-round digital platform, provides the global tourism community with access to expert articles, podcasts, and other innovative content.
ITB Berlin 2025 runs until March 6, offering a platform for industry leaders to connect, collaborate, and shape the future of travel. With its record-breaking participation and focus on innovation, the event reaffirms its position as the heartbeat of the global tourism industry.
Related topics:
- Norwegian Cruise Line Introduces NCL Air to Simplify Fly-Cruise Bookings for Travel Agents
- Uniworld Announces Three New Luxury Ships for European Rivers
- City Walkers Launches New Website to Revolutionize Group Travel in Europe with Expert-Led Tours