Researchers, policymakers, tourism professionals and destination managers from across the Mediterranean region are invited to participate in the Mediterranean Tourism Knowledge Exchange and Policy Conference (MTC26), which will be held in Malta from 24–27 November 2026 as part of the 11th Mediterranean Tourism Forum (MTF26). The event is organized by the Mediterranean Tourism Foundation and aims to strengthen evidence-based tourism development and policy-making across the region.

The conference will serve as an international platform for researchers and policymakers to exchange ideas, research findings and practical experiences related to the future of Mediterranean tourism. Organizers emphasize that the event seeks to support sustainable regional development by connecting academic knowledge with policy and industry practice.

A central theme of MTC26 will be regenerative tourism, focusing on how tourism can actively contribute to the revitalization of local communities, cultural heritage and natural environments. Discussions will explore strategies for creating mutually beneficial relationships among visitors, residents and destinations while enhancing the competitiveness and resilience of Mediterranean tourism destinations.

The 2026 edition will introduce several new initiatives, including a Mediterranean Tourism Research Writing Retreat and a Mediterranean Tourism Future Talent Competition and Hackathon, designed to encourage innovation and support emerging tourism researchers and professionals. Participants in these activities will also be invited to attend the broader Mediterranean Tourism Forum on 27 November.

The conference program will feature presentations and discussions led by internationally recognized tourism scholars. Confirmed speakers include Prof. Dimitrios Buhalis, who will address destination management in the era of artificial intelligence; Prof. Haiyan Song, focusing on tourism forecasting in uncertain times; Prof. Giampaolo Viglia, discussing AI, pricing and trust; Prof. Maria Teresa Borges Tiago, examining innovation ecosystems; Prof. Efi Sarantakou, exploring tourism policy and spatial planning; Prof. Filipa Brandao, presenting regenerative tourism practices; and Prof. Adele Ladkin, addressing the future of tourism human resources.

According to the organizers, the previous Mediterranean Tourism Forum attracted more than 2,500 participants from 32 countries, highlighting the growing importance of the event as a regional platform for tourism dialogue and collaboration.

Researchers wishing to participate in MTC26 are invited to submit abstracts by 15 September 2026, while acceptance notifications will be issued by 15 October 2026. Early registration will remain open until 30 October 2026.

The conference is expected to provide valuable opportunities for networking, policy discussion and knowledge exchange, while contributing to the development of more sustainable, innovative and resilient tourism models across the Mediterranean region.

Conference at a Glance

• Event: Mediterranean Tourism Knowledge Exchange and Policy Conference (MTC26)
• Part of: 11th Mediterranean Tourism Forum (MTF26)
• Dates: 24–27 November 2026
• Location: Malta
• Organizer: Mediterranean Tourism Foundation
• Theme: Evidence-Based Policy and Regenerative Tourism
• Abstract Submission Deadline: 15 September 2026
• Acceptance Notification: 15 October 2026
• Early Registration Deadline: 30 October 2026
• Key Topics: Regenerative tourism, destination management, artificial intelligence, tourism forecasting, innovation, sustainability and tourism policy.