Madrid is preparing to host the eighth edition of FITUR Screen from 21–23 January 2026 at IFEMA’s Hall 10, solidifying its reputation as a global meeting point for the tourism and audiovisual industries. Organised by FITUR in collaboration with the Spain Film Commission, the event brings together filmmakers, tourism professionals, film commissions, and policy experts to explore the dynamic intersections between cinematic storytelling and travel experiences. FITUR Screen continues to showcase Spain as an innovative and versatile destination for international productions.
Spain–India Dual Year Highlights Cross-Cultural Opportunities
The 2026 programme revolves around the Spain–India Dual Year of Culture, Tourism, and Artificial Intelligence, emphasizing audiovisual collaboration as a vehicle for deeper cultural and economic engagement. India’s expansive and influential film industry presents a rich opportunity for creative partnerships, co-productions, and knowledge sharing. FITUR Screen will leverage this platform to foster connections between Spanish and Indian production sectors, creating avenues for innovation in storytelling, destination promotion, and immersive audience experiences.
Institutional participation from Spanish ministries overseeing Industry, Tourism, Culture, and Digital Transformation underscores the strategic importance of audiovisual collaboration as a driver for sustainable tourism, technological innovation, and international engagement. These dialogues will offer actionable insights into policy frameworks, investment opportunities, and collaborative ventures across both countries.
Recognising Excellence in Audiovisual Partnerships
A highlight of the event is the SFC Global Visionaires Awards, designed to honour projects and initiatives that strengthen Spain’s profile as a filming destination while promoting international collaboration. These awards recognise contributions that amplify the visibility of Spanish locations, foster cross-border creativity, and demonstrate the impact of audiovisual productions on cultural and tourism growth. By celebrating such achievements, FITUR Screen positions cinematic storytelling as a powerful driver of global destination marketing.
Innovative Experiences Programme and New Screen Tourism Award
The Experiences Programme, a strategic initiative of the Spain Film Commission supported by the State Secretariat for Tourism, will take centre stage at FITUR Screen 2026. This programme highlights how audiovisual content can be transformed into long-term tourism assets, inspiring travel and engagement with the real-world locations featured in films and series.
For the first time, FITUR Screen will introduce the Award for Best Screen Tourism Experience. This new recognition celebrates projects that combine sustainability, creativity, and innovation to offer compelling visitor experiences. By joining existing awards such as Best Production and Spain Film Commission Ambassador of the Year, the new category underscores the event’s commitment to sustainable and forward-thinking approaches in the intersection of tourism and audiovisual production.
Expanding International Participation
FITUR Screen 2026 will feature wider international representation, including delegations from Brazil, Morelia (Mexico), and Madhya Pradesh (India). These participants will provide insights into their local audiovisual sectors, tourism strategies, and co-production potential, further establishing FITUR Screen as a key hub for global industry networking.
Spain’s regional and local film commissions will also play a prominent role, showcasing the country’s geographic diversity, professional infrastructure, and creative talent. From historic cityscapes and natural landscapes to coastal regions, Spain provides filmmakers with a versatile canvas suitable for a range of productions, solidifying its status as a competitive international filming destination.
Sustainable Screen Tourism Takes the Spotlight
Sustainability is a central focus for FITUR Screen 2026. The event will explore how screen-driven tourism can align with environmental, social, and economic goals, promoting responsible travel while generating lasting value for host communities. The Experiences Programme and the new Best Screen Tourism Experience Award highlight the potential for filming locations to serve as sustainable tourism assets that balance creativity, local development, and ecological responsibility.
Celebrating 25 Years of the Spain Film Commission
2026 also marks the 25th anniversary of the Spain Film Commission, which has played a critical role in building Spain’s international reputation as a professional, creative, and highly accessible filming hub. Over the past quarter-century, the Commission has facilitated landmark productions, supported regional filming initiatives, and strengthened the integration of audiovisual content and tourism development. FITUR Screen serves as a showcase of this legacy, demonstrating Spain’s ability to merge cinematic storytelling with immersive visitor experiences.
Looking Forward: Innovation, Collaboration, and Global Impact
As FITUR Screen enters its eighth edition, the event promises a forward-looking agenda that blends innovation, cross-cultural collaboration, and sustainable development. Discussions on AI-driven production, co-productions, and screen tourism will provide attendees with insights into emerging trends that are shaping both the audiovisual and tourism industries.
By highlighting the transformative potential of film in promoting destinations, driving economic growth, and fostering cultural exchange, FITUR Screen 2026 positions Spain as a global leader in integrating cinematic creativity with sustainable tourism development. The event not only celebrates the power of storytelling but also reinforces the growing role of screen tourism as a driver of international collaboration and destination visibility.
Ultimately, FITUR Screen 2026 is poised to be a landmark event, strengthening Spain’s position as a world-class hub for audiovisual innovation and sustainable tourism while fostering global connections that extend well beyond the festival itself.
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