WTTC considers Dubai for its new headquarters

Dubai has been named as one of the six cities under consideration to become the new headquarters of the World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC), following the closure of its London headquarters earlier this year. 

 

The UAE emirate is the only non-European contender, reflecting the Middle East’s growing influence in global tourism. Other shortlisted cities include Geneva, Milan, Paris, Barcelona and Madrid. 

 

By establishing a new hub, WTTC aims to streamline its operations, reduce costs and improve global mobility for employees, while remaining closely connected to key markets worldwide.

 

WTTC’s operating team is currently evaluating each location, with local governments offering incentives such as fiscal benefits, access to global talent and business-friendly regulations in an effort to secure the organisation’s new hub. 

 

RELATED:

Saudi Arabia sets ’new benchmarks’ in tourism, says WTTC

UAE leading the way in travel technology, reports WTTC

Mabrian partners with WTTC to deliver data-driven tourism growth

 

In recent weeks, each city candidate has presented its advantages for hosting the WTTC headquarters in their country, highlighting opportunities for stronger international advocacy and sustainable sector growth.

 

Commenting on the development, Gloria Guevara, WTTC Interim CEO & President, said: “A new office will generate operational efficiencies, thanks to favourable business conditions and location advantages and these savings will allow us to deliver greater value to our members worldwide.”

 

The final decision is expected in the coming weeks as the organisation completes its structured review of candidate cities. If selected, Dubai would further strengthen its position as a global travel hub, joining a robust network of tourism industry players and international events, including the Arabian Travel Market, which welcomed a record 55,000 visitors in 2025.

 

For more information, visit wttc.org