ATS Travel to accept Crypto Currency as a Form of Payment

Dubai, UAE – ATS Travel, a premier travel management company, and Payhound, a leading provider of fully regulated crypto payment solutions, are pleased to announce a groundbreaking understanding to enable ATS Travel to accept cryptocurrency as a form of payment for all its services. This new development marks a significant milestone in the Middle East’s travel industry, making ATS Travel the first large-scale travel management company in the region to adopt cryptocurrency for both corporate and leisure travel transactions, informed Saleem Sharif, Deputy Managing Director of ATS travel on the sidelines of the travel industry leading event Private Luxury Barcelona, from Private Luxury Events.

Under this historic arrangement, ATS Travel’s clients – many of whom are high-net-worth individuals from across the Middle East – will now have the flexibility to pay for a wide range of travel services, including airline tickets, luxury travel, holiday packages, MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Exhibitions, and Events) services, and more, using leading cryptocurrencies such as Bitcoin, Ethereum, and others, informed Sharif. This initiative is poised to be a game changer in the travel industry and reflects the region’s growing interest in digital currencies and blockchain technology, added Sharif.

A First in the Middle East

This collaboration is the first of its kind for a company of ATS Travel’s scale and prestige in the Middle East, setting a new benchmark for the industry. With a focus on innovation and forward-thinking business solutions, the understanding with Payhound enables ATS Travel to meet the demands of a tech-savvy, digital-first clientele, particularly those accustomed to high-end services. The implementation of crypto payments is expected to significantly enhance the customer experience by providing seamless, instant, and secure payment options while eliminating the delays and costs typically associated with traditional banking methods, informed Sharif.

Payhound: Pioneering the Future of Payments

Payhound, headquartered in Malta, is a fully regulated crypto payment provider with a proven track record of supporting businesses across multiple industries, including iGaming, financial institutions, e-commerce, affiliate marketing, and more. The company specializes in crypto payment processing, settlements, and large volume trading, offering businesses a secure and efficient way to accept digital currencies for their products and services. And we are excited about the prospect of collaborating with ATS Travel to facilitate acceptance of Crypto Currency as a Form of Payment for them, informed Melissa Lamb, Director of Sales, Luxury at Payhound.

With a Virtual Financial Assets Service Provider (VFAS) license granted by the Malta Financial Services Authority (MFSA) in 2021, Payhound is one of the first regulated entities in the space to provide these services. Payhound’s platform ensures businesses can receive payments in seconds, eliminating the delays that are often associated with traditional banking processes, informed Lamb.

A Strategic Move for ATS Travel

The strategic collaboration with Payhound aligns with ATS Travel’s ongoing commitment to providing innovative solutions to its corporate and leisure customers. Khaled Ghubash, Managing Director of ATS Travel, expressed excitement over the proposed partnership, stating, “We are thrilled to be the first travel management company in the Middle East to integrate cryptocurrency payments into our services, once done. This arrangement with Payhound reflects our commitment to offering cutting-edge services that meet the evolving needs of our clients, particularly in a region where cryptocurrency adoption is on the rise.”

Ghubash added, “By offering cryptocurrency payment options, we are not only meeting the demands of high-net-worth individuals and businesses but also positioning ourselves as leaders in an industry that is moving rapidly toward digitalization. We expect this to open new avenues for business and strengthen our relationships with our clients.”

A Bright Future for Digital Payments in Travel

This association signifies a shift towards more modern, flexible payment solutions in the travel industry, particularly in the Middle East, where the cryptocurrency market is seeing increasing growth. ATS Travel’s ability to accept digital currencies will provide corporate clients, leisure travelers, and MICE customers with a more streamlined, faster, and secure way to manage their travel expenses, informed Sharif.

The association between Payhound and ATS Travel is expected to set the stage for further innovations in payment solutions for the global travel industry. The two companies are excited about the potential to further expand this offering and introduce even more groundbreaking services in the future, informed Lamb.

About Payhound

Payhound is a fully regulated cryptocurrency payments solution provider that serves a wide range of industries, including iGaming, financial services, e-commerce, and more. Based in Malta, Payhound offers comprehensive services, including crypto payment processing, settlements, and large-volume trading. Payhound holds a Virtual Financial Assets Service Provider license from the MFSA and is a leader in cryptocurrency payment solutions.

About ATS Travel

ATS Travel is a leading travel management company headquartered in Dubai, UAE, with operations spanning the UAE, Saudi Arabia, Qatar and India, and other countries in the Indian Subcontinent. Founded 48 years ago, ATS Travel offers a comprehensive range of travel services, including business travel solutions, airline tickets, luxury travel, holiday packages, cruises, travel insurance, and car hire. Through its fully owned subsidiary, 5th Element Events, the company provides MICE services, and it is part of a global network of travel management companies via its association with ATG Travel Worldwide based in Netherlands. ATS Travel also promotes student and educator trips through partnership with Barton Hill of London.

This announcement marks an important milestone in both the travel and cryptocurrency industries, with Payhound and ATS Travel leading the way toward a more digital and flexible future for travel payments.

Source : Zawya.com

Dubai laws you need to know before visiting

Dubai, a popular winter sun and relocation destination in the Middle East, is a firm favourite among UK holidaymakers.Enticed by its scorching temperatures, desert adventures and high-rise skyline, a record 92.3 million passengers passed through terminals at Dubai International Airport in 2024.While holidays usually pass by without a hitch, there are strict regulations in the UAE and its emirates – both well and lesser-known – that travellers should get familiar with before they book a trip.

Radha Stirling, CEO of London-based legal group Detained in Dubai, stressed the importance of being familiar with the local laws of your travel destination.“Common behaviour doesn’t mean lawful behaviour. It may be common to drink alcohol in Dubai, but it’s also unlawful to possess alcohol in your bloodstream or be drunk. A mere allegation is sufficient to warrant an arrest and people can weaponise the system to have you prosecuted if they so wish,” said Stirling.

She added: “Almost all tourists will be in violation of local laws before they even get on a plane. A number of first-time visitors have been arrested for social media posts or electronic private communications that they made perfectly legally from their own countries.”Holidaymakers risk fines, deportation, arrests and prison sentences if they fail to respect the rules.The Foreign Office (FCDO) warns: “The UAE is a Muslim country. Respect local traditions, customs, laws and religions. Make sure your actions do not cause offence, especially during the holy month of Ramadan or if you visit religious areas. There may be serious penalties for doing something that might not be illegal in the UK but is in the UAE.”

Here are the local laws that tourists need to know about to stay out of trouble while visiting Dubai and the UAE.

Dubai laws and rules

Carrying prescription drugs

Don’t be tempted to bring medication into Dubai without first checking if it is considered a “controlled” substance.The FCDO says: “There are strict rules about what medications you can bring into the UAE. You will need approval from the UAE authorities to bring in medication that the UAE classes as narcotic, psychotropic, controlled or semi-controlled.“If you arrive in the UAE without evidence of prior approval, the medication will not be allowed into the UAE, and you may be prosecuted.”You can usually bring up to three months’ supply of medication as a visitor, or one month if the medication requires approval.

Swearing and rude gestures

Swearing or making rude gestures, online or in person, is illegal in the UAE. Travellers can be jailed or deported for such “obscene acts”.

Drinking or possessing alcohol

One of the most important rules to remember for tourists: drinking or being under the influence of alcohol in public is illegal anywhere in the UAE, even if you are over 21. Specifically in the city of Sharjah, north of Dubai, where drinking or possessing alcohol is illegal.Residents of Dubai are legally required to have a liquor licence to buy alcohol to drink at home or private parties. Tourists can get a temporary liquor licence which is valid for one month – these are not required in Dubai to purchase and consume alcohol in licensed venues like hotel bars, restaurants, and pubs.

Hotel regulations

Travellers under 18 take note – you cannot stay in a hotel alone if you’re under 18 years old and not accompanied by an adult.

Pedestrian crossings

As known as “jaywalking” in the US, holidaymakers should note it is illegal to cross roads in Dubai without using the marked pedestrian and zebra crossings.

Ramadan rules

During the holy month of Ramadan, travellers should take extra care to be respectful. Exact dates vary by year and country but the FCDO reminds visitors to be wary of eating, drinking, smoking, swearing, playing loud music or chewing gum in public.

LGBT+ travellers

LGBT+ travellers should be aware that same-sex sexual activity is illegal in the UAE before they travel.According to the FCDO: “The UAE is in many respects a tolerant society and private life is respected. However, there have been reports of individuals being punished for same-sex sexual activity, particularly where there is any public element, or where the behaviour has caused offence. This applies both to foreign national residents and tourists.”

Posting critically of the UAE online

Posting critical or culturally insensitive material is considered illegal in the country – specifically videos and photos reflecting negatively on the UAE government, companies and its nationals.

Showing affection in public

Honeymooners beware: kissing, holding hands and showing affection in public is frowned upon and arrests may be made.

Sexual relationships outside marriage

It is illegal for adults over 18 to have a sexual relationship with a person aged 17 or under. British teen Marcus Fakana, 18, was recently jailed for having consensual sex with a 17-year-old while on holiday in Dubai.Even those partaking in consensual extra-marital relationships risk a six-month prison sentence if either person’s spouse or guardian files a criminal complaint.Unmarried parents may also not be covered by medical insurance and could struggle to obtain a UAE birth certificate unless they get married or provide a joint declaration, certified by a notary public, to acknowledge the child.

Financial crime

Tourists who commit financial crimes in the UAE, including fraud and failure to pay hotel bills, are unlikely to be granted bail while they await prison sentencing. Personal bank accounts and assets can also be frozen.

Packing poppy seeds

Before you pack your favourite bakery products – poppy seeds are strictly banned from entering Dubai.

Drug-related offences

The UAE has a zero-tolerance policy for drug offences, including trafficking, carrying and using illegal substances. Penalties can include a three-month prison term, fines up to 100,000 UAE dirham (£21,840) and, in drug trafficking cases, the death penalty. Some CBD, skincare and e-cigarette products are illegal in the UAE due to their ingredients. These will be confiscated and you could face criminal charges.

Fundraising and charity

Before you travel to the UAE, check any charity acts you have planned, including online fundraising, are permitted at your destination.

Using cameras and binoculars

In Dubai, you can be arrested for photographing a person without their consent. It is also illegal to take pictures of some government and military buildings with hobbies that require binoculars likely to “be misunderstood”, say the FCDO.

Media activity

Members of the press must apply for permission to carry out media activity in print or video or risk imprisonment or a fine.

Clothing

Consider packing a modest outfit – for women, this includes covering the shoulders and knees – to avoid causing offence in public areas. Swimwear outside of beaches or at swimming pools and cross-dressing are also illegal.

Checking someone else’s phone

The UAE has strict laws against invading someone’s privacy, including potential jail time for being nosey and checking another person’s phone.

Eating or drinking on public transport

Think again before you pack a picnic for public transport – to help keep the transport system clean, eating and drinking onboard is banned and you could be fined 100 UAE dirham (£21).

Driving etiquette

It’s wise to control your road rage while driving in Dubai – offensive gestures towards other vehicles can lead to fines, a jail sentence, and possibly deportation.The FCDO warns: “Police in the UAE have the power to impound your car for traffic violations that may be considered minor in the UK. They will charge a fee of 50,000 UAE dirham plus a traffic violation fine to release your car.”

KICC Unveils Spectacular Dancing Fountains to Elevate Guest Experience and Attract MICE Business to Kenya

The Kenyatta International Convention Centre (KICC) proudly announces the launch of its state-of-the-art dancing fountains. This mesmerizing water feature, synchronized with Kenya’s patriotic music and dynamic lighting, is set to revolutionize the event experience, offering visitors an unforgettable spectacle that enhances the ambiance of the venue.

The new dancing fountains, designed with cutting-edge technology, will showcase choreographed water displays that synchronize with a variety of musical genres, from patriotic songs, classical symphonies to modern pop and jazz. The feature boasts a fully programmable system, allowing for customized performances tailored to specific events, themes, or corporate branding.

“With the introduction of our stunning dancing fountains, we are redefining the event experience at KICC. The fountains will be the only one of their kind in Africa. They will be like the ones of Burj Khalifa in Dubai” said Geoffrey Thande,  Director Business Development of KICC. “This attraction will not only captivate visitors but also serve as a unique focal point for International and local events, gala dinners, trade shows, and entertainment productions. It adds a dynamic visual and sensory element that sets Kenya apart from the competition.”

Mr Thande further said that the Convention Centre is planning to have family extravaganzas and other thematic events every weekend for the shows. He further added that KICC is in talk with the County government of Nairobi to close off the city hall way during the weekends to allow for the spectacular shows to take place.

Geoffrey Thande,  Director Business Development of KICC

The new fountains align with the Corporation’s mission to continually enhance its facilities and provide world-class amenities for its clients and guests. The feature is expected to be a major draw for business events, offering delegates an innovative way to create engaging experiences while at the Centre.

A special inaugural event will take place on 20th of this Month during the Safari Rally Flag off Ceremony. We will feature an exclusive showcase of the fountains in action, accompanied by live music and special effects. Event planners, corporate executives, and media representatives are invited to witness firsthand the breathtaking fusion of water, light, and sound.

The Convention Centre is also developing two more products to make the Centre even more attractive for business. The Revolving Restaurant on 27th floor is being redeveloped and the KICC tower will be providing high technology advertising platform soon. All these projects are geared towards increasing revenue and venue appeal to delegates and visitors to KICC.

Five Years Later: The Travel Industry Reflects on COVID-19’s Impact

Five years ago this week, daily life, as most of us knew it, came to a halt as the world realized it was in the grips of a deadly global pandemic unlike anything previously seen in modern times. 

By March 11, 2020, more than 118,000 cases of COVID-19 had been reported across 114 countries, and there were 4,291 resulting deaths, according to a CDC timeline of the pandemic’s emergence. On that day, the World Health Organization (WHO) officially declared COVID-19 a pandemic.

Two days later, on March 13, the Trump Administration announced a nationwide emergency banning entry of non-U.S. citizens from 26 countries. This was followed 24 hours later by a “no sail order” from the CDC for all cruise ships, calling for them to cease all activity in all waters over which the U.S. held jurisdiction.

Travel, an industry worth $10.3 trillion globally in 2019, accounting for 10.5 percent of all jobs around the planet and 7 percent of all trade, was about to experience the unthinkable: Being brought to a standstill. It would take years to recover.

March 2020: The Month Everything Changed

It can be hard to believe that the deadly COVID-19 pandemic is already five years behind us. The years have flown by, in some ways, and life has largely returned to normal. The journey to get to this point however, was no small feat. It has been daunting, both individually and collectively.

In March 2020, the routines of daily life changed seemingly overnight. Millions of workers lost jobs as businesses ceased operations. Many of those who remained employed were required to work remotely and found themselves suddenly adjusting to digitalization. Schools shifted to remote learning, and healthcare workers became the front-line defense, helping us all fight a global existential threat. And these are just some of the impacts.

Turning to the tourism industry, one of the central policies implemented to help contain the virus was restrictions on mobility, both domestically and internationally. This had a profound impact on every level of travel, including slashing demand for hotels and eliminating patronization of restaurants, as well as countless other hospitality venues.

Air travel was one of the hardest-hit global industries: “After a decade of consistent and robust growth in global passenger traffic, the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic brought airports around the world to a virtual halt in the second quarter of 2020, erasing almost overnight, more than 20 years of passenger traffic growth,” says a report from Airports Council International (ACI).

In 2020, there was a 62.3 percent decline in global passenger traffic, which amounted to about 5.9 billion passengers not flying due to the pandemic, according to ACI.

Additional statistics help further illustrate the bleak reality the travel industry faced five years ago: 

  • Lockdowns worldwide resulted in a staggering 49 percent GDP decline for the travel industry in 2020 (compared to an overall global economy GDP contraction of just 3.7 percent during the same time frame.) This amounted to a loss of close to $4.5 trillion compared with 2019, according to the World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC).
  • The United States alone recorded a tourism revenue loss of roughly $147 billion between just January and October 2020, according to Statista. By comparison, Spain, the country experiencing the second-highest drop in tourism revenue, lost about $46.7 billion over that same time frame.
  • Some 63 million tourism jobs were lost in just 2020 as a result of the pandemic, according to Statista.

The good news is that the industry, by most accounts, has fully rebounded.

In May 2023, the WHO and former U.S. President Joe Biden declared an end to the pandemic. Exactly one year later, in May 2024, a report from the World Economic Forum touted: “Tourism is back to pre-pandemic levels.” The report explained that the global tourism industry in 2024 was not only expected to recover from the lows of the COVID-19 pandemic, but might even surpass the levels seen before the crisis.

A record $1 out of every $10 spent globally in 2024 was expected to be spent on travel as consumers the world over rushed to book hotels, cruises and flights, WTTC reported. The WTTC also estimated that the industry’s contribution to global GDP in 2024 would increase 12.1 percent year-over-year to reach $11.1 trillion, thus making up 10 percent of global GDP. That figure represented a 7.5 percent increase from the previous record set by the travel industry in 2019, before the pandemic emerged.

Travel industry employment has recovered as well. The sector was expected to support nearly 348 million jobs in 2024, which was also a record-breaking 13.6 million more jobs than 2019 industry employment highs.

Yes, the travel industry is back.

One of the positive developments continuing to shape the travel industry is the growing commitment to sustainability and community-focused initiatives. The pandemic served as a turning point for travel, reinforcing the importance of intentional, sustainable, and transformative experiences. It further accelerated the adoption of sustainable travel practices—moving beyond ‘do no harm’ to actively leaving destinations better than we found them.

What other Positive developments in travel can we “credit” COVID-19 for?

Leave a comment

Source : TravelPulse by Northstar

Safari Travel Report 2025: Longer Seasons, Bigger Budgets, and Hidden Gems

While South Africa remains the most popular location for safaris, followed by Tanzania and Kenya, there’s growing interest among travelers in moving beyond traditional locations for safari experiences.In addition, the customary safari travel season is becoming longer, with an increasing number of globetrotters opting for June or September experiences, extending peak safari travel beyond its normal limits.

These are just some of the top takeaways from Go2Africa’s State of Safari travel report for 2025, a publication that’s based on proprietary search and booking data, combined with global Google search volumes.The annual report highlights the pivotal trends poised to shape safari planning and the industry across Africa. Some of the additional developments highlighted by this year’s report include:

Inquiries for Indian Ocean Island destinations like Seychelles and Mauritius grew by 71 percent, from 4.4 percent to 7.5 percent.Travelers are spending more on safari with an increase from 36 percent to 59 percent for medium-high budgets.The number of solo travelers interested in safari has increased slightly by 1 percent while couples continue to be the most dominant group with 44.58 percent of bookings.

Shifting Safari Hot Spots

While the percentage of traveler inquiries for South Africa decreased slightly year-over-year, now representing 23 percent of bookings, it remains the most popular safari destination, according to Go2Africa.Traveler inquiries for Tanzania, meanwhile, increased slightly, by 0.6 percent, reaching 19 percent. Eternally popular Kenya accounted for 18 percent of bookings, according to Go2Africa.

These three most popular locations accounted for 60 percent of the total interest, a figure that remains unchanged from last year.There are however, a few regions that are making notable inroads among safari travelers. Interest in Indian Ocean Island destinations like Seychelles and Mauritius grew by 71 percent year-over-year, from 4.4 percent to 7.5 percent.

What’s more, travel to Madagascar and Malawi more than doubled from 2023 to 2024. This development is likely a result of tourism to Madagascar being boosted with new airlines and flight routes that now serve the island.Still, Liesel Van Zyl, Go2Africa product manager and head of positive impact, says travelers appear to be moving beyond “traditional safari routes.” In tandem with this development, safari travelers are also seeking more hands-on experiences that make a difference.

“Instead of just observing, guests want to be part of the conservation effort—places like Usangu and Green Safaris offer immersive activities that allow them to contribute directly,” says Van Zyl.There’s also a shift away from classic itineraries like Kruger and Victoria Falls, with more interest in hidden gems such as Zambia’s Kafue, Ruaha’s Usangu, Seychelles’ Platte Island, Zimbabwe’s Matusadona, and the pristine waters of Lake Malawi, says Van Zyl.

The Safari Travel Season Is Getting Longer

Safari travel peaks from June to October, with July consistently the most popular month, driven largely by the Great Migration and prime wildlife viewing conditions.Interest in April and May is also growing thanks to fewer crowds and the potential for better rates.

Increased Safari Budgets

This year’s report showed a continued shift from medium budgets to medium-high budgets for safari travel. For 2023, the average budget sat in between $5,500 to $6,500, while 2024’s average budget was between $5,500 to $7,500, reflecting a combination of an increase in desire for premium experiences, longer trips and an increase in the cost of safari travel. Year-over-year medium budgets decreased from 53 percent to 39 percent, while medium-high budgets increased from 36 percent to 59 percent.

Couples Remain Top Safari-Goers

The distribution of safari traveler types has remained relatively stable year over year, according to Go2Africa.Traveling with a partner continues to be the most popular choice, accounting for 45 percent of those on safari. Solo travel, however, has seen a slight increase, rising from 12 percent to 13 percent.

Families are also increasingly turning to safaris for a vacation.

”There’s been a noticeable increase in families choosing safaris as their ideal holiday,” said Maija De Rijk-Uys Go2Africa Managing Director. “More lodges and experiences are catering to children and multi-generational travel, making it an incredibly rewarding experience for families looking to connect with nature together.”

Source : TravelPulse by Northstar

New study suggests travel payment fraud is on the rise

Travel payment specialist, Outpacye from Amadeus, surveyed 4,500 travellers across five markets and found a growing demand for improved payment security, as two-thirds of travellers are concerned about payment fraud being on the rise.

The study made clear the increasing importance travellers place on secure payments, highlighting it as a key factor for influencing purchasing decisions, with over 70% of travellers stating that they would choose a travel company based on its strong reputation for secure commerce.

A study by Juniper Research, a research, forecasting, and consultancy agency, found that 46% of all payment fraud Is targeted at the airline industry. This presents a serious challenge for travel companies to prevent security problems without introducing additional obstacles to the payment experience, which can also dissuade travellers from purchasing from a company if it is not efficient.

Jean-Christopher Lacour, senior vice president and global head of product and deliver for Outpayce, said: “It’s clear from this research that there is an issue with the perception of security, which is making it harder to deliver smooth one-click payments. Widely publicised data breaches have reduced consumer confidence, and the industry needs to take proactive measures to rebuild trust.”

One alternative that has emerged is tokenisation, which is when sensitive payment card data is replaced with a secure token as a preventative measure to reduce risk exposure of merchants by ensure the travel companies do not need to store individual traveler financial details.

Strong customer authentication (SCA) requirements, like two-factor authentication (2FA) has also been incorporated for most travel purchases initiated in Europe, usually involving biometrics or a one-time passcode.

Still, the new initiatives have not presented viable solutions yet, with two of three participants claiming that travel companies declined legitimate purchases, even when there were funds, continuing to struggle to accurately identify fraudulent payments.

Overall, the research suggests that even with new measures in place to prevent fraud, the travel industry has yet to find an effective way to deal with the emerging issues.

Source : Aviation Business News

Outside In: Outsourced Travel Management on the Rise

Midsize companies getting more serious about managing travel has been one vector for the increase in travel management outsourcing. Another is the fact that the job itself is evolving and requires more specialized skills.

Outsourced travel management—roles where the person doing the work is not employed directly by the company they are working for—is on the increase. “The number of [outsourced] engagements we have has almost doubled since 2019,” says Sara Andell, director, consulting strategy for American Express Global Business Travel, generally considered the largest provider of outsourced travel managers. “Outsourcing is now the biggest part of Amex GBT consulting by both headcount and revenue. We have just shy of 100 individuals working for 70 clients.”

Lynne Griffiths, CEO of corporate travel recruitment specialist Sirius Talent Solutions, who places plenty of insourced travel managers too, agrees. “There has been a lot more outsourcing in the last 12-18 months,” she says.

One explanation identified by Andell is medium-sized companies beginning to manage their travel activities more systematically. “They are appreciating travel is complex,” she says. “It’s ‘I need that travel manager role but I don’t need a full-time person and where am I going to find the expertise within my business?”

Larger companies which do have full-time travel managers also find travel increasingly complicated, according to Louise Kilgannon, head of outsourcing for Festive Road, another major outsourcing provider. “Travel managers are doers but they can’t be experts in everything,” she says, pointing to sustainability legislation and technology as fields of knowledge where additional help might be needed.

In addition to these strategic tasks, there are also more outsourced operational and technical roles. Examples cited by Andell include managing the inbox of communications from travelers, creating traveler awareness campaigns and administering online booking tools or payment card reconciliation.

Business Travel News’ Salary & Job Satisfaction Report showed a clear trend that travel management strategy is focusing more on technology and data solutions than ever before, with the intent of optimizing programs and driving innovation.

Forty-six percent of SME travel managers said they were more focused in the last 12 months on corporate travel technology and booking tools, while 44 percent said they were more focused on travel program innovation than they had been 12 months ago. Forty-two percent said they were analyzing more data.

BTN’s survey did not inquire about how heavily these programs are leaning on outsourced resources to support such initiatives, but outsourcing providers told BTN the changing focus is having an impact.

In the past, Kilgannon said, travel managers received internal support from departments as IT and corporate communications, but “all of a sudden some of these roles are sitting within the travel program so the regular talent pool where you have to find people has to expand. Six or seven years ago, outsourcing was ‘I need three regional travel managers.’ We still have a bit of that but there’s definitely a shift.”

 

Part of the Team? Well… Almost

There is a clear overlap between these specialized outsourced tasks and regular consulting services provided by the likes of Amex GBT Consulting and Festive Road, but they are not the same.

“The difference with being a consultant is that as an outsourced travel manager I was empowered to make decisions on the company’s behalf,” says one veteran whose career has included both insourced and outsourced travel management and independent consulting roles. “Consultants bring ideas to a client, which makes the decision.”

Length of service is not the determining factor. “I worked for a bank for eight years but that was as a consultant: It was a continuous succession of projects and I didn’t make decisions,” the same travel manager says.Another crucial determinant is the extent to which the individual is treated and also perceived as part of the company to which they are assigned. “Typically that individual works in the client’s host system,” says Andell. “They will have a client laptop and perform tasks on the client’s behalf in the system.”Kilgannon adds: “With an outsourcing engagement the individual becomes part of the travel team. They are really integrated and are presented to internal stakeholders and suppliers as a team member.” Typically, the outsourced travel manager will have an internal e-mail address at the client company.

If an outsourced travel manager acts and looks so much like an insourced one, one might wonder why companies don’t simply insource instead? The key reason is flexbility, and not just because of the opportunity to create a role that is not full-time. After all, it is perfectly possible to insource permanent but part-time staff.

Instead, says the veteran travel manager of his outsourcing days, employers could “flex the work up or down; or, if they suddenly decided they were going to restructure or sell the company, they didn’t have to worry about redundancy [or, severance] costs for me. It was a good way to have the expertise without having the headcount.”

There is also more flexibility in matching personnel to the changing needs of the travel program. “The client can scale,” says Andell. “We might come in to do one piece of work and then it will develop into something else, or functionally you might want a completely different resource at different times. At the end of the contract term, that individual will come back to us and play a different role, or it can be extended by the client. It has a lot of advantages against a long-term employment contract.”

Weighed against these advantages, Kilgannon counsels that “there are some barriers in an outsourced role. We tell our clients to think really carefully about this. Your access to internal stakeholders can be slightly limited. Access to internal data where there are external regulatory bodies can also be ring-fenced from an externally outsourced team.”

Likewise, there are a mixture of pros and cons for travel managers who opt for outsourced roles. One who has enjoyed the work very much is Esther van der Aa, especially for the variety it offers. “Being outsourced provides fresh challenges,” she says. “I learn a lot from different companies and their different travel programs. It brings me extra expertise from which my clients can benefit.”

Van der Aa also finds that outsourced travel managers are more respected. “That has constantly been my experience,” she says. “When I was in-house I had more trouble standing in front of the board and persuading them to follow my direction.”

Conversely, however, van der Aa finds outsourced travel managers can be treated less favorably by rank-and-file employees, who sometimes level accusations of “double-hatting”: serving two masters. “They imply that you are playing for multiple teams and not 100 percent committed to the company,” she says.

Support or Threat?

Another constituency that might regard outsourced travel management with suspicion is insourced travel managers. Are the outsourcers coming for their jobs?

Kilgannon and Andell both refute this suggestion emphatically and both also say that in the vast majority of cases the people commissioning outsourced travel managers are insourced travel managers themselves seeking additional support for their team.

“It’s not to say we can’t do the global travel management role,” says Andell, “but a lot more are regional or doing particular specialist functions. The idea we are coming for your job… I would rather flip it and say how can we help you be really successful at your role by giving you people who are specialists? I can see a really strong case for having an in-house manager. It’s a stakeholder role, ultimately, where you are having to talk to finance, HR and budget-holders. Often that could be better executed by someone in-house.”

Recruitment specialist Griffiths agrees that outsourced travel managers are not taking insourced travel managers’ jobs. Instead, she says, “we used to see lots of travel management company account managers being poached for travel manager roles and now we’re not seeing so much of that.”

One senior travel manager who regularly makes use of both specialized and operational outsourced travel managers is Mia Andersson, head of global travel management for Scania. She is confident insourced senior travel managers’ roles are safe.

“You can outsource the whole program but you still need someone internally to be the quality checker and make sure the delivery is according to the contract,” Andersson says. “Having a general procurement person who somewhat knows travel to do that wouldn’t be good. You need a senior person knowledgeable about the category.”

Source : Business Travel News by Northstar

KATA Members at Meetings Africa 2025

The premier MICE (Meetings Incentives Conferences Exhibitions) event, Meetings Africa 2025 hosted a delegation of KATA Members. The event in Johannesburg, South Africa, offered agents from Kenya opportunities to build business relationships and learn industry trends, as well as tour the destination, which strengthened Kenya’s role in the African business tourism market development. KATA has established a partnership with South Africa Tourism (SAT) to enable members access to Meetings Africa events for multiple consecutive years. The sustained relationship between KATA and SAT continuously exposes Kenyan travel professionals to fresh business prospects while creating international ties and discovering untapped African markets. KATA Board Members Patrick Maina Kamanga alongside Grace Ogwa guided this year’s delegation along with important figures in the travel industry who eagerly sought to discover South African tourism attractions.

Beyond the trade show, the KATA members embarked on an immersive familiarization trip designed to highlight some of South Africa’s top tourism attractions. The strategic destination for the delegation was The Harties, which happens to be a developing tourist path situated near Johannesburg. The destination combines recreational activities with cultural attractions, that include Jeep tours together with cable car rides and boat cruises on Hartbeespoort Dam, balloon safaris, quad biking and horse riding. The team also had an opportunity to visit the legendary Modjadji Kingdom, home to the Rain Queen, a revered figure in African history.

From Johannesburg, the group continued to Cape Town to experience the tourist attraction destination known as the Garden Route, which captivates visitors with its remarkable scenery. During the site visit, the delegation participated in multiple tourist activities such as tasting wine at farms, observing marine life interactions, and trying the longest zipline at 3.2 kilometres.

The participation of KATA at Meetings Africa demonstrates its dedication to help members find and capitalize on business possibilities across the industry. KATA positions its members at the forefront of Africa’s travel and tourism market by having members join global industry forums and gain firsthand destination understanding and monitor emerging travel trends. The organization actively supports strategic alliances to enhance member growth and boost Kenya’s international tourism impact. The association anticipates future success by urging members to leverage existing opportunities to widen their connections while improving their market offerings and progressing Kenya’s tourism sector.

Kenya eyes more German tourists through strategic partnerships

Kenya is ramping up efforts to attract more German tourists by forging strategic partnerships and showcasing its diverse tourism offerings at the 2025 ITB Berlin Expo.

With over 80,000 German visitors in 2024, Kenya aims to significantly boost these numbers by focusing on adventure tourism, cultural heritage, and seamless travel experiences.

“The ITB Berlin is a critical platform for Kenya to highlight its unique attractions and build partnerships that drive tourism growth. Germany is a key market for us, and we are committed to making Kenya a top destination for German travellers.” said Francis Gichaba, Chairman of the Kenya Tourism Board (KTB).

Kenya’s Ambassador to Germany, Stella Mokaya Orina, stressed the importance of cultural diplomacy and collaboration with German stakeholders.

“We’ve been engaging with chambers of commerce, participating in expos, and promoting Kenya’s investment and tourism potential across Germany. These efforts are already yielding results, as seen in the 12.4% increase in German arrivals last year,” she stated.

To enhance accessibility, Kenya introduced the Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA), simplifying entry for tourists. However, Ambassador Mokaya noted challenges faced by older German travellers.

“We are discussing ways to make the ETA process more user-friendly, including the possibility of allowing applications at the airport,” she revealed.

Kenya’s reputation as the “land of champions” is also a significant draw, particularly for sports enthusiasts.

“Many Germans are eager to visit Kenya to train alongside our elite athletes and experience our world-class running culture,” said Ambassador Mokaya.

The Kenyan diaspora in Germany, estimated at 22,000 to 25,000, plays a key role in promoting the country.

“Our diaspora are excellent ambassadors, marketing Kenyan products and encouraging visits to their homeland,” she added.

Strategic partnerships with German airlines, such as Condor’s direct flights to Mombasa, have already boosted tourist numbers.

“These collaborations are essential to achieving our goal of three million international arrivals by the end of 2025,” said John Ololtua, Principal Secretary for Tourism.

As Kenya continues to showcase its diverse landscapes, rich culture, and adventure opportunities at ITB Berlin, stakeholders remain optimistic about attracting more German tourists.

Source : Citizen Digital

KQ’s EmpowHer Personal Branding Summit

On 31st January 2025, EmpowHer initiative kickstarted the year with a Personal Branding Summit at the Pride Centre in Nairobi, under the theme ‘Values-Driven Branding: Be True, Be You.’ The event focused on empowering KQ women to build strong, authentic personal brands aligned with their values.

The summit featured a keynote session on ‘Aligning Values with Your Brand,’ emphasising clarity, consistency, and visibility as key pillars in shaping a professional identity. A panel discussion on brand resilience and adaptability explored how agility and strategic positioning are crucial for long-term success in a dynamic world.

Commenting on this initiative, our Chief Strategy and Innovation Officer, Hellen Mwariri, who also serves as the EmpowHer Patron, reiterated the initiative’s commitment to supporting women in taking control of their narratives and amplifying their influence within the workplace and beyond.

This summit marked a significant step in our commitment to the growth and development of KQ women, providing them with insights and a clear roadmap for building strong, bold, and future-ready personal brands.

Source : KQ Jetsetter