Guatemala, Abu Dhabi, and Egypt Claim Top Honors for Their Exceptional Stands at FITUR 2026

Guatemala, Abu Dhabi, and Egypt earned top honors at FITUR 2026 for their innovative and visually striking stands, each reflecting their unique cultural heritage and rich history through captivating design and immersive experiences.

The 46th edition of the International Tourism Trade Fair (FITUR) wrapped up its third professional day on January 25, 2026, by announcing the winners of the prestigious Best Stand Awards and the Sustainable Stand Awards. Organized by IFEMA MADRID from January 21 to 25, FITUR is a major event that celebrates excellence in tourism and showcases the best in stand design, functionality, and sustainability, with key players from across the globe competing for recognition.

Vincci, Meliá, and Alsa Stand Out in Companies Category

Among the top companies, Vincci, Meliá, and Alsa emerged as the standout winners in the Best Stand in the Companies category. Vincci’s stand was praised for its innovative and playful design, effectively capturing the essence of hospitality through visually stunning, Instagram-worthy spaces. Inspired by Op Art, the stand was designed to engage visitors emotionally, combining art and hospitality seamlessly.

Meliá followed with its elegant yet simple stand that embraced Mediterranean charm. Central to the design was a symbolic olive tree, surrounded by earthy tones, ceramic latticework, and transparent panels that allowed natural light to filter through, creating a serene atmosphere. The stand’s focus on natural beauty and sustainability aligned with the brand’s core values of elegance and simplicity.

Alsa, with its clean and effective design, impressed judges with its minimalist yet functional approach. The stand was divided by a central corridor, guiding visitors through different sections while highlighting the company’s brand identity with clear graphic representations. Cantilevered canopies added an inviting touch, enhancing the stand’s overall appeal.

Guatemala, Abu Dhabi, and Egypt Shine in Countries and Regions Category

In the Countries and Regions category, Guatemala, Abu Dhabi, and Egypt were recognized for their extraordinary stand designs. Guatemala showcased its rich cultural heritage with a stand featuring natural materials like wood and textile threads, paired with Mayan glyph imagery, evoking the country’s deep historical and cultural roots. The stand’s minimalist approach was a nod to Guatemala’s scenic beauty and craftsmanship.

Abu Dhabi set itself apart with a luxurious design that captured the essence of both tradition and modernity. Combining elements of sand, wood, and green-toned furniture, the stand created an oasis-like atmosphere. Visitors were transported to a blend of serene natural landscapes and bustling urban environments, reflecting the dynamic character of the Emirate.

Egypt brought its ancient history to life with a stand that mirrored the grandeur of its most iconic sites. With references to Abu Simbel and the new Grand Egyptian Museum, the stand was a stunning homage to Egypt’s powerful past. Pharaonic influences were evident in the monumental installations and the use of Aswan stone, while the bright lighting symbolized the power of the sun.

Autonomous Communities Winners: Castilla y León, Madrid, and Galicia

The Autonomous Communities category saw Castilla y León, Madrid, and Galicia awarded for their distinctive stands. Castilla y León embraced the theme of celestial mystery with a stand set in an artificial night sky, featuring stars, moons, and planets, leading visitors to imagine the solar eclipse set to take place in August 2026. The design captured the region’s enigmatic beauty and fascination with the cosmos.

Madrid’s stand took a different approach, focusing on the balance between tradition and innovation. The pavilion highlighted the Santiago Bernabéu stadium, city roads, and a racing circuit, effectively blending Madrid’s historical landmarks with its modern, urban dynamism. It captured the city’s evolving identity while remaining deeply rooted in tradition.

Galicia, in contrast, used elements of water, land, and rain to represent the region’s natural beauty. The stand featured cascading images and mirrored surfaces, with water droplets falling as a tribute to Galicia’s pride and connection to nature.

FITUR Sustainable Stand Awards: Galicia, Cantabria, and Grupo Piñero Lead the Charge

In the 7th FITUR Sustainable Stand Awards, Galicia, Cantabria, and Grupo Piñero were recognized for their commitment to sustainability. Galicia’s stand made a significant impact with its innovative use of recycled materials. More than 50,000 plastic bottles were repurposed to create panels for the stand, marking a bold step toward eco-conscious tourism and design.

Cantabria’s focus on sustainability was evident through its development of the “Inicia 2030” platform, which monitors sustainability objectives and outcomes. Additionally, the stand featured a dismantling protocol designed to avoid waste, aligning with the region’s commitment to long-term environmental responsibility.

Grupo Piñero was honored for its comprehensive sustainability project that involved all stakeholders in its creation. The company’s efforts to balance economic, environmental, and social impact highlighted its dedication to sustainable development in tourism.

Lastly, the Castelldefels City Council received recognition for its creative sustainability approach, integrating cultural identity with environmental responsibility. The stand featured the traditional beach bar (chiringuito) as both an aesthetic and functional element, with materials sourced from the local community, symbolizing the region’s deep connection to its culture.

A Glimpse of Sustainability at FITUR

These awards emphasize the growing importance of sustainability in the tourism industry. FITUR has become a key platform for showcasing how the tourism sector is embracing the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). With a strong emphasis on responsible design and eco-friendly materials, the fair continues to encourage innovation in the industry, inspiring destinations and companies alike to integrate sustainable practices into their offerings.

As FITUR continues to evolve, the blend of creativity, cultural celebration, and sustainability promises to shape the future of tourism. The 2026 edition’s award winners exemplify the industry’s forward-thinking approach and dedication to creating a more sustainable, connected world.

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