The new global headquarters of ONU Turismo (formerly UNWTO) in Madrid will be inaugurated on June 29.
Spain’s Minister of Industry and Tourism, Jordi Hereu, alongside UN Tourism Secretary-General Shaikha Al Nowais, confirmed the date during the 126th Executive Council meeting. The total transformation and refurbishment cost over €25m.
It is funded by the Spanish government through Turespaña. The facility is situated in a dedicated wing (Building B) of the iconic Palacio de Congresos de la Castellana complex. This prime spot sits right on the Paseo de la Castellana, directly opposite the Santiago Bernabéu stadium.
The facility spans approximately 9,000 square metres. It features three floors of modern office spaces, meeting rooms, a multi-purpose exhibition hall, and a specialized auditorium equipped with translation booths for up to 300 people.
Built as an eco-friendly operational center, the building integrates solar panels, LED smart lighting, and high-efficiency climate systems.Artistic Heritage: The flagship site is famously presided over by the historic, iconic Joan Miró mural displayed on the Palacio de Congresos complex.
UN Tourism remains the only United Nations specialized agency with its permanent global headquarters located in Spain, where it has been based since 1975. The opening of this facility serves as a major milestone to revitalize the Madrid Congress Palace, which has been largely disused for over a decade, and further secures Madrid’s reputation as a principal hub for global tourism governance alongside the World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC).
Turespana shared: This development cements Spain’s role as a leader in international tourism governance and is expected to enhance Madrid’s profile as a hub for high impact tourism initiatives, events and global dialogue on sustainable travel.
