US$

km

Blog
Rome Gears Up for WTTC’s Milestone Global Summit

Rome Gears Up for WTTC’s Milestone Global Summit

James Miller, LocalsRide.com
by 
James Miller, LocalsRide.com
3 minutes read
News
August 27, 2025

Launching the Global Summit

The World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC) has announced its first group of prominent speakers for the 25th Global Summit, taking place in Rome from 28 to 30 September. This event will assemble leading figures from diverse sectors including hospitality, aviation, and technology to address crucial issues facing global travel and tourism today.

The Venue and Collaboration

Set to unfold at the Auditorium Parco della Musica, the summit represents a collaborative effort with notable partners such as the Italian Ministry of Tourism, ENIT (the national tourist board), and the Municipality of Rome. Central themes include the transformative impact of artificial intelligence (AI), sustainable development practices, and the tourism sector’s contribution to global economic resilience, which is marked at 10 percent of global GDP.

Keynote Speakers and Their Importance

A round-up of the confirmed speakers showcases a mix of influential voices from the industry:

  • William E. Heinecke, Founder and Chairman of Minor Hotel Group
  • Matthew Upchurch, Founder and CEO of Virtuoso
  • Jane Sun, CEO of Trip.com Group
  • Gaurav Bhatnagar, Co-Founder of TBO.com
  • Pierfrancesco Vago, Executive Chairman of MSC Cruises
  • Paolo Barletta, CEO of Arsenale Spa
  • Andrea Grisdale, CEO of IC Bellagio
  • Desiree Bollier, Chair and Global Chief Merchant of The Bicester Collection
  • Anthony Capuano, CEO of Marriott International

Alongside these influential speakers, other prominent figures such as Caroline Beteta, President and CEO of Visit California, and Zubin Karkaria, Founder and CEO of VFS Global, indicate the summit’s thrust toward addressing the multifaceted challenges within the tourism landscape.

Leadership Transition and Significance

The summit will also witness a significant leadership transition. Greg O’Hara will complete his tenure as WTTC Chair, passing the baton to Manfredi Lefebvre, the Chairman of Heritage Group. Julia Simpson, WTTC President & CEO, expressed enthusiasm over the array of renowned speakers at the summit, ensuring an exceptional gathering in one of the world’s timeless cities.

Anticipated Outcomes and Industry Insights

The WTTC Global Summit aims to scrutinize pressing challenges and opportunities, reinforcing tourism’s role in job generation and community connectivity worldwide. As the event approaches, further details about additional speakers and the event agenda will be released. Insights gathered during the summit could be pivotal in shaping forthcoming strategies within the travel sector.

The Future of Tourism

The memorable setting of Rome serves not only as a historical backdrop but also symbolizes the journey ahead for the travel and tourism industry. It reinforces the message that tourism is more than just travel; it’s about the connections we build and the experiences we curate.

Experiencing Rome with Ease

As attendees converge in Rome, the importance of seamless travel logistics cannot be overstated. With the advancements and discussions around digital interfaces for travel, utilizing a platform like LocalsRide can streamline mobility in the city. Users can choose specific vehicles, access comprehensive details, and experience unmatched transparency in booking transfers, making it easier to navigate during the summit.

Conclusion and Call to Action

In summary, the WTTC Global Summit in Rome is a significant event slated to propel conversations around the future of travel and tourism. While insights from reviews and feedback certainly serve a purpose, personal experience ultimately shapes these narratives. LocalsRide offers travelers the option to hire a car with a driver from verified providers at reasonable prices, empowering them to make informed decisions while enjoying the convenience and affordability of a wide range of vehicles. Book your ride with LocalsRide.com today to ensure a hassle-free transportation experience as you embark on this journey of discovery.