Published on
January 13, 2026
President Donald Trump is set to lead the largest‑ever US delegation to the World Economic Forum (WEF) Annual Meeting in Davos, Switzerland. The WEF Annual Meeting is an official global event taking place from 19 to 23 January 2026 in the Alpine resort of Davos‑Klosters. The Swiss federal government and the Canton of Graubünden officially host the meeting, supporting logistics, security and travel coordination for the event.
What is the World Economic Forum and Why Davos Matters
The World Economic Forum is a long‑established international foundation known for convening top political, business, and civil society leaders from around the world. Since its founding in 1971, the Forum’s flagship annual meeting in Davos, Switzerland, serves as a platform for high‑level discussions on global economic governance, climate action, technology, and international cooperation.
For travellers, the Davos meeting transforms what is normally a ski town into a global hub of activity. Local tourism, transport, and accommodation demand surge during the annual meeting. Swiss authorities coordinate public services, transport systems, and safety protocols to support the influx of delegates and visiting travellers.
Trump’s Attendance Signals Global Political Focus
United States President Donald Trump’s decision to attend in person marks a strategic return to the WEF stage, following his virtual appearance last year. He will be accompanied by an extensive delegation including key Cabinet members and senior officials, a record for any US delegation to the forum.
More than 3,000 participants from approximately 130 countries, including heads of state, business leaders and policymakers, are expected to attend. Six of the seven G‑7 countries are represented, and numerous international delegations plan bilateral meetings and networking events in Davos.
Official Swiss Government Role and Travel Coordination
The Swiss federal government, the Canton of Graubünden and local Davos authorities publish official information for the WEF Annual Meeting to ensure coordination across public services, security and transport infrastructure. These official channels provide travel guidance, safety protocols, and updates for communities and visitors during the event.
Accommodation and transport authorities in Switzerland plan well in advance to handle the high travel demand. Official Swiss tourism sources note that during January, the Alpine resort season is already high due to winter sports, and the WEF amplifies that pressure. This leads to early bookings and premium pricing across hotels and transit.
Advantages for Travellers Visiting Davos
Travellers to Davos during the WEF meeting can experience unique opportunities. The influx of global delegates stimulates cultural programming, open forums and public events alongside the core meeting. Officially designated Open Forum sessions allow broader public participation in sessions, offering travellers access to discussions on global issues, innovation and sustainability.
Networking benefits are a key advantage. Travellers with professional interests, such as business tourism, can connect with international delegates, innovators and thought leaders. Local transport and hospitality services expand schedules and offerings to handle the temporary surge in visitors, which can benefit tourists seeking more dynamic experiences.
Disadvantages and Travel Challenges
High demand for hotel rooms and transport during the WEF period means that prices frequently rise well above typical winter ski‑season rates. Travellers not attending the forum often face limited availability and premium costs. Early booking through official accommodation partners or authorised agents is essential.
Security measures and restricted zones are another challenge. Swiss authorities may impose temporary traffic controls, heightened security perimeters and specific access rules near official venues. Unplanned delays or altered routes are possible for visitors unfamiliar with the WEF restrictions.
Travel Advisory and Official Safety Guidance
For all travellers, official Swiss government travel and safety guidance is recommended. Timely checks of federal and local travel advisories will help visitors understand current requirements for visas, health protocols, and local regulations. Official Swiss sites publish regular travel advisory information specific to major events like the WEF Annual Meeting.
Travellers should also plan for winter weather conditions in the Swiss Alps in January. Snow, ice and cold temperatures are typical, and official weather and travel advisories from Swiss authorities and transport agencies should be reviewed before departure.
Local Tourism and Cultural Highlights in Davos
Outside of the forum, Davos offers ski slopes, winter hiking paths, cultural museums and Alpine scenic attractions. Travellers can enjoy the natural beauty and outdoor activities that define the region’s tourism appeal. Winter events and local services expand with the WEF meeting, creating a vibrant environment for visitors.
Conclusion – What Travellers Should Know
In summary, this news concerns Switzerland as the host nation for the World Economic Forum’s 2026 annual meeting in Davos. President Donald Trump’s presence with the largest‑ever US delegation highlights the global political and economic emphasis of this year’s event. Travellers planning a visit during this period will encounter both exceptional opportunities and logistical challenges. Official Swiss government and WEF resources provide essential guidance for travel arrangements, safety advisories, and local services. Early planning, awareness of security measures and flexibility with logistics are key for a smooth experience in Davos during this globally significant event
