Ayurveda, Longevity and the Future of Wellbeing Take Centre Stage as Global Wellness Summit set to Celebrate 20th Anniversary


The global wellness movement will celebrate a major milestone in 2026 as the Global Wellness Summit (GWS) marks its 20th anniversary with what organizers describe as its most ambitious gathering yet—bringing together the world's leading thinkers, innovators and changemakers to explore the next frontier of health, healing and human wellbeing.

Scheduled from November 10–13, 2026, at the picturesque Angsana Laguna Phuket, Thailand, the landmark summit arrives at a time when traditional healing systems such as Ayurveda, preventive healthcare, longevity science and spiritual wellbeing are increasingly shaping the future of global wellness.

Under the theme ‘The Science, Art and Soul of Wellness,’ the anniversary edition will delve into the convergence of cutting-edge medical innovation, ancient healing wisdom and the growing quest for purpose-driven living. The programme is expected to spotlight how wellness is evolving beyond fitness and spa experiences to embrace holistic health models that integrate mind, body and spirit.

Over the past two decades, the summit has emerged as one of the wellness industry's most influential platforms, reflecting the rapid expansion of a sector now valued in the trillions of dollars. The 2026 gathering is set to attract a diverse mix of wellness entrepreneurs, healthcare experts, investors, academics, policymakers, hospitality leaders and technology pioneers from around the world.

A key focus is expected to be the growing global interest in longevity and healthy ageing—areas that increasingly align with Ayurveda’s preventive and personalized approach to health. Among the first keynote speakers announced are Dan Buettner, the bestselling author and longevity advocate behind the globally acclaimed Blue Zones research; William Heinecke, founder and chairman of Minor International; and Professor Andrea Maier, a leading authority on longevity medicine and co-founder of Singapore’s NUS Academy of Healthy Longevity.

The summit will also examine the future of wellness tourism in Asia, a region that continues to draw global attention for its rich traditions of natural healing, mindfulness and integrative wellness practices. Industry leaders Ronald Akili, co-founder of Bali’s Potato Head, and Huy Hoang, founder of Japan’s Shishi-Iwa House, will join a panel moderated by Cathy Feliciano-Chon, Managing Partner of FINN Partners Greater China, to discuss how independent hospitality brands are redefining transformative travel experiences centred on wellbeing.

As wellness consumers increasingly seek authentic healing journeys, personalized longevity solutions and deeper spiritual connections, the Global Wellness Summit's 20th anniversary edition aims to provide a glimpse into what the next era of wellness could look like—one where an ancient tradition such as Ayurveda stands alongside breakthrough science to shape a healthier, longer and more meaningful life.

Ayurveda and Health Tourism Magazine are an official media partner of the summit.


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