FITUR LGBT+ highlights diversity and inclusion as drivers of tourism development
Throughout its program, the section showcased destinations and initiatives linked to inclusive tourism
The 16th edition of FITUR LGBT+, organized by FITUR in collaboration with JN Global Project, took place within the framework of the International Tourism Fair as a key professional forum showcasing inclusive destinations, initiatives and activities linked to diverse tourism. Under the slogan “Mucho más que turismo” / “Beyond Tourism”, the professional sessions underlined the role of diversity, inclusion and safety as strategic pillars of tourism promotion, as well as the institutional and business commitment to an open, responsible tourism model aligned with fundamental rights.
The opening ceremony began with the presentation of the FITUR LGBT+ Award 2026, which this year was granted to Madrid City Council and the Community of Madrid in recognition of their work in support of inclusion and diversity. Héctor Coronel, Director of Tourism at Madrid City Council, stressed that “talking about diversity and inclusion should not be seen as something alien or extraordinary, but rather incorporated systematically and naturally into our way of life”. Meanwhile, Luis Izquierdo, Deputy Minister for Culture, Tourism and Sport of the Community of Madrid, noted that Madrid ranks, according to several recent indexes, as the Spanish region most strongly committed to the LGBTI+ community.
Miguel Sanz, Director General of Turespaña, offered a strategic perspective on Spain’s leadership in this segment, stating that “there is no better tourism policy for the LGBT+ segment than those that place the rights of LGBTI+ people on an equal footing with those of all other citizens”.
José Sánchez, International Director of FITUR, reaffirmed IFEMA MADRID’s commitment to these values, describing FITUR LGBT+ as “a professional space for meeting, dialogue and action that promotes open, safe and welcoming tourism”. The session concluded with remarks from Gemma Juncá, Brand Director at Iberia, who reiterated the private sector’s commitment to giving real substance to diversity beyond marketing narratives.
New destinations join the Spanish Network of Destinations for Diversity (REDD)
The Spanish Network of Destinations for Diversity (REDD) continues to strengthen its role as a national benchmark platform for destinations committed to an inclusive, safe and sustainable tourism model. The network supports public administrations and businesses in implementing policies, promotional initiatives and strategic events that position diversity as both tourism and social value.
En este marco, Nano García, director de JN Global Project y de la REDD, entregó las placas que oficializan la incorporación de nuevos destinos a la red: Nules (Comunidad Valenciana), Plasencia (Extremadura) y Xàtiva (Comunidad Valenciana), ampliando así la implantación territorial de la REDD en el conjunto del país.
Within this context, Nano García, Director of JN Global Project and of REDD, presented the plaques formalizing the incorporation of new destinations into the network: Nules (Valencian Community), Plasencia (Extremadura) and Xàtiva (Valencian Community), further extending REDD’s territorial presence across Spain.
David García Pérez, Mayor of Nules, highlighted that “Nules is a safe town, a town committed to non-discrimination of any kind and absolutely intolerant of all forms of discrimination”. Roger Cerdá, Mayor of Xàtiva, explained that joining REDD allows the city to evolve from a heritage-focused tourism model towards one based on ethical and social principles, “towards a safe city where everyone can feel free”. Belinda Martín, Councillor for Tourism, Commerce, Business Promotion and Urban Management of Plasencia City Council, emphasised that “we are the first city in Extremadura to join the network”, underlining the strategic value of this step for the destination’s tourism positioning.
Destinations, events and experiences strengthening inclusive tourism
The professional programme of FITUR LGBT+ also highlighted destinations and events that integrate diversity into their tourism strategies. Over the course of the sessions, programming plans from cities such as Madrid were presented, alongside major international events including the Gay Games XII València 2026, as well as national calendar initiatives such as Cullera Beach Pride, Ibiza Pride and Mr Gay España, all of which enhance destination appeal beyond the peak season.
Over the weekend, FITUR LGBT+ will expand its program with a cultural and artistic agenda open to the general public, where diversity will be expressed through dance, music, fashion and live performances.
The program will be rounded off with a range of attractions for visitors, including performances and presentations such as Vive Los Alcázares: Mar Menor that Vibrates with Pride, Pink Chadora: North African Pride Dresses in Pink, Show Pride Ibiza, a live performance by singer Javi Martín (Gran Canaria), a fashion show by designer José Perea, and a special showcase by Chueca Diversa, highlighting the identity, culture and commerce of Madrid’s Chueca district as part of its tourism appeal.