The 2024 Tourism Innovation Summit (TIS2024), held October 23-25 ​​in Seville, Spain, brought together global tourism leaders to examine the trends shaping the future of the sector.

Experts highlighted how technology, sustainability and inclusiveness are creating a smarter and more adaptable tourism landscape while meeting the changing needs of today’s travelers.

These ten trends identified at TIS2024 range from artificial intelligence (AI) technology, which optimizes user experience, to sustainable approaches that minimize the environmental impact of tourism activity.

The personalization of experiences, the creation of accessible and diversified tourism, the implementation of circular and regenerative economy strategies and the adaptation of the industry to climate change are other key points that will mark the future of the sector.

1. Technology and innovation in tourism

Advanced technologies such as AI, robotics and extended reality (XR) are revolutionizing the tourism industry, not only improving customer experience but also optimizing operations and processes. From travel personalization to operational efficiency, these tools enable businesses to offer more tailored and efficient services, resulting in more special experiences for the tourist, leading to greater loyalty and better management.

2. Artificial Intelligence in Tourism Planning

AI helps anticipate trends and efficiently manage the influx of destinations, promoting an adaptive experience. However, its integration poses challenges in terms of ethics and privacy, which is why the European Union is moving forward with regulations such as the AI ​​Law, to ensure safe and fair use in the tourism sector.

3. Sustainability and circular economy

The tourism industry is focused on reducing its carbon footprint and protecting the environment by using renewable energy and circular economy practices. Through initiatives such as reducing single-use plastics and installing electric vehicle chargers, tourism is moving towards carbon neutrality and ecosystem conservation.

4. Regenerative tourism

This approach aims not only to minimize environmental impact, but also to generate positive value in local communities, prioritizing the well-being of residents and the sustainability of destinations. Responsible management of tourist flows and a commitment to quality experiences rather than quantity allows destinations to develop in a balanced and responsible manner.

5. New requests from travelers

Today’s tourists seek authentic, transformative experiences that connect them to the local culture and environment, as opposed to traditional mass tourism. This trend, driven by younger generations and digital natives, is rethinking the tourism offer to adapt to those who value personal development and authenticity in their travels.

6. Inclusive and accessible tourism

Inclusion and accessibility are essential in tourism today, considering the needs of travelers with disabilities and diverse groups, such as the LGBTQ+ community. The industry is meeting these demands with inclusive infrastructure and services that seek to ensure an equal travel experience for all audiences.

7. Digital marketing and communication

The overload of visitors in certain destinations has led to the development of digital strategies that distribute the tourist flow to less visited areas. This is the case of the city of Rome, which has implemented virtual assistants to promote different areas of the city so that tourists do not only focus on the most emblematic monuments.

8. New economic models in tourism

New collaboration structures and the entry of venture capital into the sector are driving innovation and efficiency. Flexible alliances between hotel companies and the rise of tourism startups are revolutionizing the traditional business model, with initiatives that include personalized and sustainable experiences through AI and other technological resources.

9. Climate adaptation

The tourism industry is facing the challenge of climate change by creating sustainable and resilient destinations. Seasonality is managed more strategically to minimize environmental impact, promoting responsible tourism throughout the year that boosts the local economy without compromising the ecosystem.

10. Talent management and diversity

Diversity and inclusion within tourism teams is key to improving customer service and holistically meeting the needs of the global market. The industry is working to narrow the gender gap in leadership positions and promoting cultural diversity training, creating an environment that better represents and understands its audience.

From advancing AI and regenerative tourism to embracing inclusivity and climate adaptation, TIS2024 showcased the sector’s forward-thinking strategies. By combining innovation and responsibility, the industry is poised to redefine the travel experience for future generations.

TIS2025 will be held from October 22 to 24, 2025 in Seville, Spain. For more information, visit TIS website.