Madrid stands as a premier destination for business tourism, seamlessly blending its rich cultural heritage with cutting-edge infrastructure to host a wide array of international conferences and trade fairs. In 2024, the city reaffirmed its position as a global leader in the MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions) sector hosting numerous high-profile events that attracted millions of professionals, generating significant economic contributions and supporting hundreds of thousands of jobs across various industries.
One of the most significant events in Madrid’s business tourism calendar is the International Tourism Trade Fair (FITUR). Organized annually by IFEMA Madrid, FITUR serves as a key platform for the global travel industry, connecting tourism professionals from around the world. The 45th edition, held from January 22 to 26, 2025, exceeded expectations, reinforcing Madrid’s reputation as a leading international business and tourism hub.
FITUR 2025 welcomed nearly 255,000 visitors, with 155,000 industry professionals attending during the first three days, which were exclusively dedicated to business-to-business (B2B) interactions, providing a focused environment for industry professionals to network and establish partnerships. The final two days opened to the public, offering a broader audience the opportunity to explore the latest trends and innovations in the tourism sector. This year’s event featured participation from 156 countries, 101 official delegations, and over 9,500 companies across 884 stands, utilizing nine expansive exhibition halls at IFEMA Madrid. The economic impact of FITUR 2025 was substantial, contributing €445 million to the local economy and benefiting industries such as hospitality, transport, and entertainment.
Under the theme “Proud. We Are Tourism,” FITUR 2025 placed a strong emphasis on sustainability, advocating for responsible and balanced growth within the sector. Industry leaders discussed key strategies such as reducing seasonality, diversifying tourism offerings, and integrating advanced technology to foster a more competitive and inclusive model. Madrid is increasingly investing in specialized tourism segments, including sports, film, and language tourism, to support a sustainable, year-round visitor economy.
Beyond FITUR, Madrid’s commitment to business tourism is evident in its diverse range of industry events spanning technology, healthcare, and finance. The city’s modern infrastructure, strategic location, and strong institutional support—led by the Madrid Convention Bureau—make it an ideal destination for large-scale international gatherings.
Madrid: A Hub for Tourism Investment
As well as being home to one of the world’s leading tourism events, the Comunidad de Madrid has become a top destination for investment from global tourism companies. Several international corporations, including Iberia, Ryanair, and British Airways, have established offices in Madrid, recognizing the city’s strategic location and business-friendly environment. Leading travel agencies such as Viajes El Corte Inglés, tour operators like TUI Spain, and Destination Management Companies (DMCs) including SpainTOP and Cititravel have also set up operations in Madrid, further solidifying the region’s position as a tourism investment hub. Additionally, travel technology firms such as Lighthouse, Travelport, and Amadeus have chosen Madrid for their headquarters, emphasizing the city’s growing influence in travel innovation. Furthermore, major global companies with offices in both the UK and Madrid include Google, IBM, and Accenture, which have expanded their presence in the city to capitalize on its thriving business ecosystem.
Several key trade associations have also established their headquarters in Madrid, reinforcing the city’s status as a central hub for tourism. The United Nations World Tourism Organization (UNWTO), a specialized agency promoting responsible and sustainable tourism, is headquartered in Madrid. The Spanish Confederation of Associations of Tourist Guides (CEFAPIT), founded in 1988, is also based in the city, advocating for the protection and promotion of qualified tourist guides across Spain. Additionally, Madrid boasts a robust network of travel agencies and tour operators, further strengthening its tourism ecosystem.
Madrid’s Thriving Hospitality Industry
Madrid’s hospitality industry has experienced significant growth across all segments, catering to a diverse range of travelers. By the end of 2023, the city boasted more than 2,700 luxury hotel rooms, a 50% increase from a decade earlier, with notable additions such as the renovated Santo Mauro Palace and the upgraded Mandarin Oriental Ritz. Beyond the luxury sector, Madrid has also expanded its mid-range and budget accommodations, responding to increasing demand from business travelers, young professionals, and tourists seeking affordable yet high-quality lodging.
International hotel chains such as NH Hotels, Meliá, and Riu have reinforced their presence in the city, while a growing number of boutique hotels and serviced apartments cater to the evolving preferences of modern travelers. This well-rounded hospitality landscape underscores Madrid’s ability to accommodate all types of visitors, further solidifying its status as a top global destination for both business and leisure tourism.
Madrid: A Well-Connected Business and Tourism Hub
Madrid’s exceptional connectivity makes it an unrivaled destination for international investment and business tourism. The city is home to Adolfo Suárez Madrid-Barajas Airport, the largest airport in Spain and a major international hub that connects Madrid with every major city worldwide. Notably, Madrid has the highest number of flights to Latin America, strengthening its position as a gateway between Europe and Latin American markets.
In addition to air travel, Madrid boasts an extensive high-speed rail network, connecting the capital seamlessly with other Spanish and European cities. The city’s excellent motorway infrastructure and the Coslada Dry Port, which provides direct access to Spain’s major seaports, further enhance its status as a global business and logistics hub.
Madrid’s Strong Financial and Business Environment
Beyond tourism, Madrid is an established financial and business powerhouse. The region is home to Spain’s major banks and financial institutions, including Banco Santander, BBVA, CaixaBank, Bankinter, and Sabadell, which play a crucial role in Madrid’s financial sector, contributing to a stable and thriving economic climate. The city also serves as a leader in R&D and innovation, with 26% of Spain’s total R&D investment being allocated to Madrid. With a highly skilled workforce of 1.5 million professionals, competitive labor costs, and top-tier business infrastructure, the city continues to attract top international companies seeking to expand their European footprint. Additionally, Madrid is home to 19 top universities and four world-class international business schools, further enhancing its role as an academic and corporate innovation hub.
Madrid’s ability to attract and host world-class events like FITUR underscores its position as a leading global hub for business tourism and investment. The city’s unique combination of economic influence, logistical excellence, and a vibrant cultural scene ensures its continued growth as a top choice for international conferences, trade fairs, and corporate investment opportunities. With unparalleled connectivity, a dynamic business ecosystem, and strong institutional support, Madrid remains the premier destination for companies looking to establish a foothold in Southern Europe and beyond.