Germany Travel Mart 2026™:
Oberhausen will become an international meeting point for the tourism industry
From April 19th to 21st, 2026, Oberhausen will become the meeting place for the international tourism industry. Together with the German National Tourist Board (DZT), OWT Oberhausener Wirtschafts- und Tourismusförderung GmbH (Oberhausen Economic and Tourism Development Corporation) will host the Germany Travel Mart™ (GTM) for the first time, the most important incoming workshop for Germany as a travel destination, in Oberhausen.
Around 370 trade visitors and media representatives from almost 40 countries are expected. Prior to the event (April 15–18), international participants will have the opportunity to explore Germany and the Ruhr region as part of pre-convention tours.
The centerpiece of the event is the two-day B2B workshop, which will take place on April 20th and 21st at the Rudolf Weber-Arena will take place. At this event, German suppliers will meet international buyers to initiate and expand business relationships.
The program is complemented by an international press conference, press tours, live experience tours, networking events, and a comprehensive supporting program in Oberhausen and the surrounding region. A particular focus is the green transformation of the region, exemplified by the International Garden Exhibition Ruhrgebiet 2027, which will provide an additional reason for international visitors the following year.
By hosting the GTM, Oberhausen is positioning itself as an up-and-coming destination in international city tourism and as an example of successful structural change in the Ruhr area.
Thorsten Berg, Mayor of the City of Oberhausen:
"Where blast furnaces and coal mines once dominated the landscape, visitors now find extraordinary places and experiences. Together with numerous attractions along the Industrial Heritage Trail, our region demonstrates how vibrant industrial heritage can be today. Oberhausen is a city of change and encounters, where internationality and hospitality naturally go hand in hand. Therefore, we are delighted to welcome the international travel industry here in Oberhausen this year."
Dr. Andreas Henseler, Managing Director of OWT:
"The awarding of the GTM to Oberhausen is a vote of confidence and at the same time a special recognition of our development so far. It offers a huge opportunity to put Oberhausen on the map for exciting city breaks on an international scale."
Petra Hedorfer, Chairwoman of the Board of the German National Tourist Board:
“Oberhausen will be our host in 2026 and exemplifies the dynamic transformation of the Ruhr region into an attractive tourist destination with a wide range of cultural offerings. I am convinced that OWT will create an excellent setting to showcase the performance and innovative strength of the German tourism industry to international buyers.”
Hanspeter Faas, spokesperson for the management of IGA 2027 Ruhrgebiet gGmbH:
"The International Garden Exhibition 2027 will be Europe's largest garden festival, and the Ruhr region is looking forward to introducing visitors to this special area as its host. The IGA 2027 is the perfect opportunity to visit the Ruhr region and experience its transformation. In its 'Gardens of the Future,' it offers a profusion of blossoms, innovation, and inspiration for future challenges in green infrastructure and urban development in metropolitan regions, as well as for private gardens. Accompanied by exceptional events, top-class cultural offerings, and hands-on activities, the IGA 2027 will also create a network of open spaces that will have a lasting impact on the region. And it will provide unforgettable moments for the residents of the metropolis and their guests."
Facts about the Germany Travel Mart™
- The most important incoming workshop for Germany as a travel destination
- Approximately 370 participants
- Nearly 40 nations are represented
- Central B2B platform for international business deals
- Organizer: DZT in cooperation with varying host destinations
4015 characters, excl. heading
Press contact: OWT Oberhausen Economic and Tourism Development GmbH, Marcel Sroka, Tel. (0208) 850 36-33, E-Mail: marcel.sroka@owtgmbh.de, Centroallee 269, 46047 Oberhausen