IBTM World reports that the show floor at the 2025 edition, taking place at Fira de Barcelona from November 18 to 20, will be home to a record number of new and returning exhibitors.

“We’re thrilled to see the continued growth and diversification of our exhibitor community. The addition of new destinations, hotel brands, and event service providers – alongside the largest African presence in more than a decade – highlights the strength and global reach of our industry. IBTM World 2025 is shaping up to be one of our most dynamic editions yet, and we look forward to bringing the world together once again in Barcelona,” said Claudia Hall, exhibition director, IBTM World.

A world of new destinations

Newcomers joining the IBTM World for the first time include West Hollywood, the Cayman Islands and Fiera Milano, as well as European capital cities, Sarajevo and Sofia. Meanwhile, Astana, capital of Kazakhstan, returns after several years absence, alongside VisitScotland and Buenos Aires, both rejoining the show’s global line-up. Abercrombie & Kent DMC is also making its debut, further expanding the international DMC representation at the event.

Africa’s largest showcase in over a decade

This year’s show floor will feature the strongest African presence at IBTM World in more than 10 years, with South Africa, Morocco, Egypt, and Rwanda all returning with expanded stands. They will be joined by Rainbow Tourism Group from Zimbabwe, and a host of new and returning partners from across the continent. Among them are Business Class, a new Moroccan DMC; the Uganda Convention Bureau with 10 partners, returning after a year’s break; and the Tunisia Convention Bureau, also joined by 10 partners, marking the country’s first participation in more than a decade.

Cruise sector to make waves

The 2025 show will also welcome several cruise line exhibitors for the first time, including Norwegian Cruise Line, City Cruises (offering events on the River Thames), and Century Cruises, offering river and coastal experiences across China, Japan and Vietnam.

Increased hotel representation

Launched in 2024, IBTM World’s Hotel Pavilion will see an expanded presence from both international chains and boutique groups this year. Wyndham Hotels, Seibu Prince Hotels & Resorts, The Kimberly Hotel, and Impulsive Group will all make their debut appearances, alongside returning independents such as The Muse New York, Regnum Carya, The Ritz-Carlton Tenerife, Abama, and Viceroy at Ombria Algarve.

Innovation in event services

In the event technology and services sector, Newhotel Software, vFairs, and Cvent join the exhibitor line-up for the first time, underscoring the industry’s ongoing digital evolution. MESA (Meetings & Events Support Association) will also return with a significantly expanded stand, more than doubling the number of participating suppliers compared to last year.

For more information about IBTM World 2025, visit: https://www.ibtmworld.com/en-gb.html