The Global Wellness Summit (GWS), recognized as the premier event for leaders in the worldwide wellness industry, is set to celebrate its 20th anniversary at Angsana Laguna Phuket from November 10–13. Marking the largest and most expansive edition in its history, the conference will convene wellness executives, healthcare professionals, academics, investors, technology pioneers, policymakers, and creative visionaries. The event will honor two decades of remarkable expansion in the wellness sector while recognizing the organization’s influential role in advancing the global wellness economy.
GWS also introduced its 2026 theme, “The Science, Art and Soul of Wellness,” which aims to examine both the foundational principles of wellness and the innovations shaping its future. The theme places equal importance on spiritual wellbeing and emotional connection alongside scientific progress and medical discovery.
Among the first keynote speakers announced is Dan Buettner, the Emmy Award-winning producer and bestselling author celebrated for identifying the world’s “blue zones,” regions associated with exceptional longevity and health. Joining him will be William Heinecke, founder and chairman of Minor International, as well as Andrea Maier, a globally respected authority in longevity medicine and co-founder of the NUS Academy of Healthy Longevity at the National University of Singapore.
In addition, Cathy Feliciano-Chon will moderate a discussion featuring Ronald Akili and Huy Huong, exploring how independent hospitality brands across Asia are redefining wellness-focused travel experiences.
The 2026 program will blend discussions around science, creativity, and spirituality, reflecting the broad evolution of wellness and preventive healthcare. While evidence-based medicine, longevity research, and medical wellness innovations will remain central topics, the agenda will also spotlight emotional and spiritual wellbeing. Artistic disciplines such as music, film, and live performance are expected to play a larger role than ever before, with experts examining advances in neurowellness, neuroarts, and neuroaesthetics.
The conference will also reflect on the extraordinary transformation of the wellness economy over the last 20 years. What was once a $60 billion spa market in 2007 has evolved into an 11-sector industry now valued at approximately $6.8 trillion. The theme further aligns with Thailand’s own wellness identity, where ancient healing traditions coexist with modern medical wellness and longevity destinations.
“We’re creating a dynamic agenda that reflects the major insights gained over the last two decades of wellness while bringing together influential voices to discuss what lies ahead for the next 20 years,” said Nancy Davis. “We have exciting plans in store for Phuket, including several special surprises to mark the occasion.”
GWS also introduced its 2026 theme, “The Science, Art and Soul of Wellness,” which aims to examine both the foundational principles of wellness and the innovations shaping its future. The theme places equal importance on spiritual wellbeing and emotional connection alongside scientific progress and medical discovery.
Among the first keynote speakers announced is Dan Buettner, the Emmy Award-winning producer and bestselling author celebrated for identifying the world’s “blue zones,” regions associated with exceptional longevity and health. Joining him will be William Heinecke, founder and chairman of Minor International, as well as Andrea Maier, a globally respected authority in longevity medicine and co-founder of the NUS Academy of Healthy Longevity at the National University of Singapore.
In addition, Cathy Feliciano-Chon will moderate a discussion featuring Ronald Akili and Huy Huong, exploring how independent hospitality brands across Asia are redefining wellness-focused travel experiences.
The 2026 program will blend discussions around science, creativity, and spirituality, reflecting the broad evolution of wellness and preventive healthcare. While evidence-based medicine, longevity research, and medical wellness innovations will remain central topics, the agenda will also spotlight emotional and spiritual wellbeing. Artistic disciplines such as music, film, and live performance are expected to play a larger role than ever before, with experts examining advances in neurowellness, neuroarts, and neuroaesthetics.
The conference will also reflect on the extraordinary transformation of the wellness economy over the last 20 years. What was once a $60 billion spa market in 2007 has evolved into an 11-sector industry now valued at approximately $6.8 trillion. The theme further aligns with Thailand’s own wellness identity, where ancient healing traditions coexist with modern medical wellness and longevity destinations.
“We’re creating a dynamic agenda that reflects the major insights gained over the last two decades of wellness while bringing together influential voices to discuss what lies ahead for the next 20 years,” said Nancy Davis. “We have exciting plans in store for Phuket, including several special surprises to mark the occasion.”
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