Bold claim: AI is redefining hospitality, and Destination AI is expanding the stage to match the momentum. Destination AI (DAI) has just announced its third annual hospitality summit, set for September 29–30, 2026 in Washington, D.C. After two years of rapid growth and widespread industry excitement, the event will stretch into a 1.5-day format to give participants more opportunities to connect, collaborate, and explore how artificial intelligence is reshaping every facet of hospitality.
Nazpari Aydin, Co-Founder and Managing Director of Destination AI Forum, puts it plainly: the surge in energy and feedback from attendees, speakers, and sponsors signals a demand for more ways to engage and discuss the boundless opportunities AI presents. The expanded schedule aims to make 2026 the strongest edition yet.
What sets DAI apart
DAI emphasizes practical results over hype. Each session targets tangible outcomes, proven use cases, and candid discussions about what works and what doesn’t when adopting AI in hospitality. The conference has nurtured an open, collaborative community where leaders share frontline lessons that accelerate transformation across the industry.
Douglas Rice, Founder & CEO Emeritus of HTNG, reflects on the experience: even in its second year, the event delivered high-level thought leadership and a strong global arena for hotel technologists and operators.
Who attends
DAI draws a highly strategic audience, with more than 80% of attendees occupying senior roles that steer technology decisions and investments. The attendee mix mirrors the conference’s growing influence across the hospitality ecosystem and includes:
- Global hotel brands, management companies, and ownership groups
- Hospitality technology and AI vendors
- Investors, VCs, and private equity firms
- Consulting firms and ecosystem partners
- Media and industry associations
This concentration of decision-makers creates an environment where ideas move quickly and collaboration translates into action. George Roukas, President of Gaipan, described Destination AI as turning “what if” into “let’s go,” noting that the event brings together ideas, talent, and momentum in one room. Gopu Menon, EVP of Revenue & Distribution at Highgate Hotels, added that he left the conference energized by the people, discussions, and practical strategies he could bring home—and he’s keen to see the significant advancements and measurable outcomes the industry will showcase at the 2025 edition in D.C.
What to expect in 2026
The 2026 edition introduces a more expansive format, giving attendees ample time to engage directly with speakers, partners, and peers who are driving AI adoption in hospitality.
A glimpse of the agenda:
Day 1 – Tuesday, September 29
The summit will start with afternoon programming, followed by an evening reception that offers a relaxed setting to continue conversations.
Day 2 – Wednesday, September 30
A full schedule of keynotes, panels, demos, and conversations will provide a broad view of how AI is shaping the future of hospitality.
Past speakers have included executives and innovators from Marriott International, Hilton, Hyatt, Microsoft, Oracle, and a wide range of AI and travel-tech leaders.
How to participate
Organizations can join DAI 2026 in several ways:
- Sponsorship and exhibition opportunities to connect with hospitality leaders investing in AI
- Speaking engagements to share case studies and practical insights
- Industry and media partnerships to contribute to broad AI learning across the sector
For partnership and speaking inquiries, please contact the event team.
Registration
Registration is open at www.destinationaiforum.com. Early-bird pricing runs through July 31, 2026.
About Destination AI Forum
Destination AI Forum is a nonprofit platform dedicated to accelerating the adoption of artificial intelligence in hospitality. Founded in 2024, DAI brings together hoteliers, technologists, investors, researchers, and innovators to share real-world applications and drive the future of AI in hospitality.
Nazpari Aydin
Co-Founder & Managing Director
