Destination AI Announces Third Annual Hospitality Summit, Expanding in Response to Industry Demand
Destination AI (DAI) Unveils Its Third Annual Hospitality Summit: A 1.5-Day Extravaganza in Washington, D.C., September 29-30, 2026
Destination AI (DAI) is thrilled to announce that its third annual hospitality summit will take place September 29-30, 2026, in the heart of Washington, D.C. Following two years of rapid growth and industry-wide enthusiasm, the conference is expanding to a 1.5-day format to give attendees even more time to connect, collaborate, and explore how AI is reshaping the future of hospitality.
The energy and growth witnessed over the past two years of DAI have been nothing short of incredible, and the feedback from attendees, speakers, and sponsors is clear: they want more opportunities to connect and discuss the limitless growth opportunities that AI offers. With the expanded program we're putting together, next year is going to be our best year yet, says Nazpari Aydin, Co-Founder & Managing Director of Destination AI Forum.
What Sets DAI Apart?
DAI stands out by delivering practical results rather than hype. Every session provides real outcomes, proven use cases, and candid discussions about what's working and what isn't in AI adoption across hospitality. The event has cultivated a uniquely open and collaborative community where leaders share frontline learnings that accelerate transformation across the industry.
"This was an amazing one-day event, with a fantastic audience of thought leaders from across the hospitality space and sessions from so many top speakers. This was only its second year, but from a thought-leadership point of view, there is absolutely no better event anywhere in the world today for hotel technologists and operators," shared Douglas Rice, Founder & CEO Emeritus of HTNG.
Who Attends?
DAI attracts a highly strategic audience, with over 80% of attendees serving in senior roles guiding technology decisions and investment. The attendee mix reflects the conference's growing influence across the hospitality ecosystem and includes:
- Global hotel brands, management companies, and ownership groups
- Hospitality technology and AI providers
- Investors, VCs, and private equity firms
- Consulting firms and ecosystem partners
- Media and industry associations
This powerful concentration of decision-makers creates an environment where ideas move quickly and where collaboration translates into action. As George Roukas, President of Gaipan, shared, "Destination AI turned ‘what if’ into ‘let's go!’ It was the rare event where ideas, talent, and momentum all showed up in the same room."
What to Expect in 2026?
DAI 2026 will introduce an expanded format, giving attendees more time to engage directly with speakers, partners, and peers who are driving AI adoption across hospitality.
Here's a sneak peek at the schedule:
Day 1 – Tuesday, September 29
The summit will kick off with afternoon programming, followed by an evening reception to continue conversations in a relaxed setting.
Day 2 – Wednesday, September 30
The second day will feature a full schedule of keynotes, panels, demos, and conversations offering a broad look at how AI is shaping the future of hospitality. Past speakers have represented major industry innovators including Marriott International, Hilton, Hyatt, Microsoft, Oracle, and dozens of AI and travel-tech leaders.
How to Participate?
Organizations can join DAI 2026 in several ways:
- Sponsorship & Exhibiting: Reach hospitality leaders investing in AI
- Speaking Opportunities: Present case studies and practical insights
- Industry & Media Partnerships: Contribute to industry-wide AI learning
For partnership and speaking opportunities, reach out to email protected.
Register for DAI 2026
Registration is now open at www.destinationaiforum.com (http://www.destinationaiforum.com/). Early-bird pricing runs through July 31, 2026.
About Destination AI Forum
Destination AI Forum is a nonprofit platform dedicated to advancing the adoption of artificial intelligence across the hospitality industry. Founded in 2024, DAI brings together hoteliers, technologists, investors, researchers, and innovators to share real-world applications and accelerate the future of AI in hospitality.
Nazpari Aydin
Co-Founder & Managing Director
But here's where it gets controversial...
While DAI aims to foster collaboration and innovation, some may argue that the focus on AI adoption could potentially overshadow other critical aspects of hospitality, such as the human touch and cultural heritage. How can we strike a balance between embracing technological advancements and preserving the essence of the hospitality experience? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
