Seville is set to become the global epicenter of tourism innovation as it hosts the Tourism Innovation Summit (TIS) 2024 from October 23 to 25. The event will bring together over 7,000 professionals from across the world to explore cutting-edge technological solutions aimed at optimizing tourism processes, enhancing traveler experiences, and fostering sustainability in the industry. This year’s summit is expected to generate over 20 million euros for the local economy.
A Technology-Driven Vision for Tourism
Under the theme “Elevating the Travel Industry with Tech,” TIS 2024 will showcase groundbreaking technologies, including Artificial Intelligence (AI), Cloud Computing, Cybersecurity, Business Intelligence, 5G, Data Analytics, and Extended Reality. These innovations will demonstrate how technology can optimize operations, enhance customer experiences, and improve decision-making for tourism businesses.
Forum of Innovative Tourism Regions of Spain
In a first for TIS, this year’s summit will host the Forum of Innovative Tourism Regions of Spain. Representatives from key regions such as Andalusia, the Balearic Islands, the Canary Islands, and the Community of Madrid will discuss critical challenges facing the industry, including managing seasonality, balancing tourist flows, and creating value propositions to attract long-haul travelers.
Tailored Agenda for Industry Professionals
TIS 2024 will feature a diverse agenda designed to cater to various professional profiles across the tourism industry. Over 180 sessions will be held, covering sectors such as MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions), destinations, hotels, travel agencies, business travel, transport, and cultural tourism. Industry leaders, including Eduardo Santander (European Travel Commission), Julia Simpson (WTTC), Inge Huijbrechts (Radisson Hotel Group), Thijs Koster (City of Amsterdam), and Julie Gregorie (MSC Cruises), will share their expertise on the future of tourism, current challenges, and innovative strategies.
Immersive Tech and Innovative Solutions
The exhibition zone will feature over 200 companies showcasing the latest technological innovations for the tourism sector. Attendees will experience cutting-edge solutions such as digital humans powered by generative AI, immersive virtual reality domes offering sensory tourism experiences, interactive avatar guides fluent in 95 languages, and eco-friendly transport models that blend technology with sustainability.
Focus on Sustainability and Inclusivity
This year’s event will also emphasize sustainability and inclusivity, introducing solutions to measure the environmental impact of tourism activities and improve accessibility across the industry. With a focus on responsible, tech-driven practices, TIS 2024 aims to foster sustainable growth for tourism businesses and destinations.
Global Participation and Insights
As a special feature, China will participate as the Guest Country of TIS 2024. Boon Sian Chai, Director General and Vice President of International Markets at Trip.com, will provide insights into how AI and data-driven tools are reshaping the travel industry. Other global leaders, such as renowned travel journalist Ash Bhardwaj and Shaon Talukder, CEO of Geotourist, will discuss the evolving motivations of modern tourists and the importance of sustainable, transparent tourism.
Lessons from Major Events
A key highlight of TIS 2024 will be a session on lessons learned from organizing major global events, focusing on the 2024 Paris Olympics. The session will explore best practices in infrastructure management and cross-sector collaboration, providing valuable insights for stakeholders involved in large-scale event planning.
Supported by Key Organizations
The Tourism Innovation Summit 2024 is backed by major organizations, including the City of Seville, the Andalusian Government, the Ministry of Industry, Commerce and Tourism, and the World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC), among others.
With its focus on cutting-edge technology, sustainability, and global insights, TIS 2024 promises to be a transformative event, driving the future of tourism and cementing Seville’s position as a hub for innovation.
