India is preparing for a significant presence at FITUR 2026, the international tourism trade fair scheduled from January 21 to 25, 2026, in Madrid, Spain. The event is expected to highlight India’s expanding role in global tourism and strengthen ties with European markets, particularly as both countries gear up for the India-Spain Dual Year 2026, a landmark initiative aimed at deepening cultural, economic, and tourism cooperation between the two nations.
At FITUR 2026, India’s participation will be marked by a robust institutional presence led by the Ministry of Tourism, which has expanded its exhibition space compared to the previous year. Several Indian states, including Tamil Nadu, Telangana, Madhya Pradesh, and Kerala, will showcase their tourism offerings, with Rajasthan and Uttar Pradesh also confirmed to participate. A growing number of Indian tourism companies such as Le Passage to India, Vasco Travel, Cholan Tours, and Indo Asia Tours will be on the ground to present a wide range of travel products and experiences.
The Indian tourism sector has experienced sustained growth in recent years, underpinned by strategic promotional campaigns, enhanced infrastructure, and diversified travel experiences that span wellness, cultural, and heritage tourism. According to industry projections, India’s tourism market could reach USD 125 billion by 2027, with continued increases in employment and demand for spiritual and cultural travel experiences. Growth in international arrivals and economic contributions is also expected to remain strong through 2028.
India’s importance as a key market for European destinations is already evident. Spanish tourism statistics show that Indian visitor numbers to Spain remained stable at around 229,745 in 2024, reflecting ongoing interest and strong travel flows. Meanwhile, Indian tourist expenditure in Spain has continued to rise, with spending levels increasing year-on-year, highlighting the growing purchasing power and travel affinity of Indian tourists.
The India-Spain Dual Year 2026 initiative will further expand the bilateral tourism partnership, focusing on diversifying the geographical and seasonal patterns of travel and appealing to a broader range of motivational segments among Indian tourists. Plans include encouraging off-peak travel, promoting cultural and heritage offerings, and emphasizing sustainability in tourism to support economic, social, and environmental goals.
FITUR 2026 thus represents an important opportunity for India to promote its diverse tourism products to European markets and strengthen strategic tourism ties with Spain and other partners, reflecting the sector’s dynamic growth and global potential
