The event will now take place in the lakeside town of Montreux this November, with the original host – Oman's capital Muscat – now poised to host the 2027 conference instead. The organisation said the move was “to ensure the landmark 50th anniversary conference is accessible to the broadest possible membership”.
Martyn Sumners, Aito's Executive Director, said: “Our members now have two overseas conference destinations to look forward to. Montreux will feature a strong business programme intertwined with excellent networking and opportunities to enjoy the amazing lakeside destination.
"Aito shares a highly collaborative, ongoing partnership with Switzerland Tourism. A prominent highlight of this tenure is the selection of the Swiss mountain village of Saas-Fee as the host destination for our flagship 2026 'Famference'."
Noting the change in location, Sumners added: “While our commitment to Oman remains steadfast, we recognise current fluctuations in regional travel sentiment might prevent us from achieving the record-breaking attendance such a world-class destination deserves.
"Aito and our Omani partners have mutually agreed a 2027 window offers a more realistic timeline for our flagship event and moving it to next year allows for a longer lead-in period to curate bespoke, high-impact itineraries that showcase Oman’s rapidly expanding luxury and adventure sectors.
"We look forward to sharing its remarkable experiences with as many people as possible. We remain deeply committed to the destination and look forward to delivering the 2027 conference with a full, immersive experience that the Omani landscape and hospitality deserve.”
Alex Herrmann, UK and Ireland Director and Head of Europe West at Switzerland Tourism, said: “Participants at the overseas conference in Montreux Riviera, in the Vaud Region, can look forward to three unforgettable days combining inspiring meetings with the magic of the festive season.
“Between Lake Geneva, palm trees and mountains, Montreux Riviera offers a uniquely Swiss setting, enhanced by its famous Christmas market. Highlights will include scenic rail journeys on the GoldenPass train, an excursion to Glacier 3000 and a special gala dinner at a surprise venue.”
Montreux is accessible from the UK via Geneva airport and a 75-minute scenic train journey.
