Category Events, Tourism, Organisations & Operators

As travellers begin their holiday planning for 2026, the Balearic Islands invite the world to mark their calendars for a year of unforgettable experiences. From inspiring cultural festivals, culinary celebrations and sporting events, the Mediterranean archipelago is set to deliver a vibrant programme across all four seasons and warrant big red circles in the 2026 wall calendar. With more than 300 days of sunshine a year, pristine turquoise waters and stunning natural landscapes to match, the islands provide the perfect backdrop for a host of exciting events throughout the new year.

Pinwheel has today announced that it has been nominated for The 2026 Earthshot Prize, one of the world’s most prestigious environmental awards.

The fourth edition of FITUR Sports opened yesterday as part of the International Tourism Fair, running from January 21 to 25, consolidating its position as an international meeting point for sports tourism professionals. Organized by IFEMA MADRID in collaboration with AFYDAD, the section will focus over three days on outdoor sports, competitive sports and sporting events, and Sports Business Travel, with a strong focus on the professional business.

The International Tourism Trade Fair (FITUR) started its first day with 52,000 professional visitors, 55% of them from overseas.

The tourism industry marked the start of FITUR 2026 with a minute’s silence, paying tribute to the victims of the recent railway accident that shocked the country.

For one month each year, Saudi changes its rhythm entirely. Days grow quieter and slower, and then, as the sun sets, Saudi comes alive. Streets fill, tables stretch long, music and storytelling echo through historic districts, and cities transform into social spaces shaped by food, family, and shared moments.
For visitors, Ramadan offers one of the most immersive ways to experience Saudi, not through landmarks alone, but through how life is lived when the sun sets.

This week marks the official opening of Desert X AlUla 2026, the landmark fourth edition of the international, open-air biennial exhibition. Arts AlUla, in collaboration with Desert X, welcomes visitors to experience a stellar line-up of Saudi and international multi-generational artists whose site-responsive earthworks, sculptures, and installations will engage in a powerful dialogue with the awe-inspiring landscapes and layered heritage of AlUla.

Madrid once again becomes the focal point of global tourism as it hosts the International Tourism Fair (FITUR), organised by IFEMA MADRID from 21–25 January 2026. In its 46th edition, FITUR strengthens its position as the sector’s leading platform, highlighting both its international reach and its commitment to knowledge as a driver of industry transformation

England is set for a blockbuster year in 2026, with period dramas shining on screen, milestone anniversaries and major cultural openings across the country. Get ready for a year packed with literary legends, seaside celebrations, world-class sport, immersive art, unmissable events, brand-new stays and more…

Madeira is gearing up for Carnival 2026, set to take place from 11 to 22 February. A highlight of the island’s annual events calendar, the celebrations will bring music, colour and energy to Funchal and surrounding towns.

Dubai International Airport (DXB), long known as one of the world’s busiest and most dynamic aviation hubs, reached a remarkable milestone, processing 324,000 passengers in a single 24-hour period — a figure that underscores its growing prominence in global air travel.

The record-setting day reflects the strategic importance of Dubai as a major international connector, linking the East and West and serving as a transit point for travelers from every continent. The surge in passenger movement highlights a robust rebound in global travel demand, with more people than ever choosing to fly for business, leisure, and connecting journeys through the emirate.