The Halal and Muslim-friendly tourism market is expected to grow to $410.9bn by 2032, up from $256.5bn in 2023, according to industry predictions, with popular tourist destinations launching various initiatives to cash in on the rise in demand.International Muslim tourist arrivals in the first half of 2024 were listed at 80 million, according to Crescent Rating, which said the steep rise is set to continue and figures could reach 230 million by 2028.Industry experts say the global Islamic Halal economy, which includes investments as well as tourism among others, is set to reach $7.7 trillion this year, more than double the $3.2 trillion in 2015 and significantly higher than the $5.7 trillion it was valued at in 2021.

What is Halal tourism?

Halal is an Arabic term meaning “permitted” and extends to more than just food.Halal, or Muslim-friendly, tourism would cover everything from halal food, prayer facilities, availability of water in toilets for washing and ablution, gender segregation options, as well as an environment and experience free from “forbidden” acts, including alcohol and gambling.

Why was there a need for halal tourism options?

“Muslim leisure travellers have similar motivations to others. They want to experience the culture of their destination,” Fazal Bahardeen, CEO of Crescent Rating, told Al Jazeera.“The key difference is that they seek to enjoy these experiences without compromising their basic faith-based needs. It’s not just a form of religious tourism.”A report by Crescent Rating predicts that the Muslim travel market is expected to reach $300bn by 2026, serving as “a strategic opportunity for destinations and operators to connect with a growing audience”.

Is the Muslim-friendly tourism market spreading?

AbdulMaalik Tailor, CEO and founder of Halal Tourism Britain, reckons Halal tourism “is an untapped market that has potential”.“Initially, Muslim travellers would only do religious pilgrimages or visit ‘back home’,” he told Al Jazeera. “But as the community grew, especially the younger generations with their surplus spend, it became apparent that their needs had to be catered for.”Bahardeen says many popular tourist destinations are now “recognising this potential and enhancing their offerings to be more inclusive”.

While Malaysia and Thailand are among the most popular destinations, other popular ones include Singapore, United Kingdom, Taiwan, Hong Kong and Thailand.In July last year, Thailand unveiled a halal industry action plan aimed at promoting local products and bolstering industry standards. The country set its hopes on the rising halal industry to help boost to its tourism-reliant economy, which has struggled since the COVID-19 pandemic.

In November, the Hong Kong Tourism Board launched an initiative to “drive development of Muslim-friendly tourism facilities to elevate visitor experiences”.

In a statement sent to Al Jazeera, it said it wanted to “encourage restaurants, hotels, attractions, venues, and other establishments to review their Muslim-friendliness, while promoting the importance of Halal certification among the trade”, sharing a list of hotels, restaurants and attractions that had obtained the required certification.Since 2019, Taiwan has consistently been among destinations ranked highly by Crescent Rating while the Philippines retained its title as an emerging Muslim-friendly destination for the second straight year in 2024.

Last year, the Philippines’s Tourism Secretary Christina Frasco said the tourism department “recognises the significance and potential of Halal tourism in contributing to the growth and diversity of our tourism industry”.“Catering to the needs of Muslim travellers through development of Halal tourism is crucial in ensuring that we raise our competitiveness in the global tourism market,” she added.

Zanzibar hosted a Halal Tourism Exhibition last year, hoping to attract not only investment but also interest. A Zanzibar tourism official told Al Jazeera that the move will also help boost businesses that were already offering such initiatives.Tailor, of Halal Tourism Britain, said the “increase in non-Muslim countries catering to Halal tourism shows a positive trend in the market’s growth”.

What is contributing to the increase in Halal tourism?

While the rise in Muslim population growth remains a factor that has pushed the demand higher, according to Tailor, another major reason is the rising middle class with disposable income that is wishing to travel more.

“More destinations, whether Muslim or non-Muslim, are becoming aware of the potential and are actively marketing themselves as such to create different experiences,” he said.“We also need to recognise that the age we are living in, the narrative can be told now by Muslim influencers and Muslim brands taking advantage of it too, whilst recognising that non-Muslims who may identify as Halal travellers are increasingly wishing to have the shared experiences.”

Approximately 70 percent of the global Muslim population is aged below 40.Crescent Rating predicts that “by 2034, the Muslim population will experience substantial increases in the middle age groups [21-30 and 31-40], which are key travel demographic segments due to their economic activity and travel propensity”.

Bahardeen says he has been part of the industry for the last 16 years, and “the changes in halal tourism have been profound”.“When we started, it was a niche concept with limited awareness. Today, it is widely recognised across the travel industry, with entire segments dedicated to accommodating Muslim travellers. The level of awareness, innovation, and investment in this sector has evolved significantly.”

Source : Aljazeera

Final preparations are underway for Arabian Travel Market (ATM) 2025, which is expected to break attendance records when it opens next week at the Dubai World Trade Centre. Organisers RX Global, together with strategic partners including the Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism, Emirates, IHG Hotels & Resorts and Al Rais Travel, revealed key details and highlights for the upcoming event during a press briefing in Dubai yesterday.

Record-breaking growth expected

ATM 2025 will showcase over 2,800 exhibiting companies, with 17% from the Middle East and 83% from the rest of the world, and is set to welcome 55,000 attendees from 161 countries. The event has achieved a near 12% year-on-year increase in exhibitor participation, making it the largest edition to date, now spanning 14 halls.

The 32nd edition of ATM will focus on the theme: “Global Travel: Developing Tomorrow’s Tourism Through Enhanced Connectivity”, exploring how the future of tourism will be shaped by connectivity across borders, industries, and communities. The theme will be reflected across all show verticals, from the ATM Conference programme and ATM Travel Tech to exclusive networking events and the diverse portfolio of global exhibitors showcased.

Strategic partners share industry outlook

Danielle Curtis, exhibition director for the Middle East, Arabian Travel Market, says: “Connectivity is increasingly recognised as the driving force behind the future of travel and tourism. Tourism evolves as the world connects, and now, more than ever, collaboration among key stakeholders, including governments, airlines, travel agencies, hospitality leaders, and local communities, has become essential to shaping a thriving and more sustainable industry.

This year’s show is expected to see notable growth in participation from key regions, including Asia, which is the fastest-growing region at ATM with a projected 20% year-on-year increase in exhibitors, the Middle East, which has increased by over 15%, Europe, up by over 12% and Africa and the Americas, which are growing steadily, reflecting the rising demand across the global tourism industry. Enhanced regional connectivity and stronger links with international markets play a key role.

Surrounded by the world’s fastest-growing travel markets, Dubai is the ideal location to explore the power of connectivity. Renowned for its world-leading aviation sector, a vast array of attractions, and a favourable business environment, Dubai is a global centre for industry leaders to collaborate, innovate, and unlock new opportunities in travel and tourism.

His Excellency Issam Kazim, CEO of the Dubai Corporation for Tourism and Commerce Marketing (DCTCM), part of the Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism (DET), says: “Dubai is proud to continue its long-term strategic collaboration with the internationally renowned Arabian Travel Market (ATM) as its host destination, highlighting our commitment to advancing Dubai’s position as one of the leading global cities for business and leisure, a goal central to the Dubai Economic Agenda, D33.

“The success of Dubai’s tourism sector is a testament to visionary leadership and the strength of longstanding public-private partnerships – a model that continues to propel us forward.

“Major events like ATM are pivotal to our tourism strategy, as we look beyond traditional tourism pathways by driving innovation, entrepreneurship, sustainability, and new economic opportunities. This year’s ATM theme resonates with our vision for sustainable growth, reflecting our physical connectivity, as well as the digital and human connections that fuel progress in our industry.

“The Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism will be joined by more than 125 stakeholders at ATM 2025, showcasing our dynamic ecosystem and the collaborative spirit that defines our city’s approach to tourism.

Through our robust hosted buyers programme, we will also welcome over 300 buyers from 39 countries to experience Dubai’s unparalleled hospitality first-hand. Together, we look forward to engaging with global leaders and industry experts, exchanging insights, exploring transformative trends, and forming new partnerships that will shape the future of travel and tourism.”

Adnan Kazim, deputy president and chief commercial officer, Emirates, says: “ATM’s theme this year, Developing Tomorrow’s Tourism Through Enhanced Connectivity’ resonates profoundly with Emirates’ growth strategy.

“Since the last edition of ATM, the Emirates story has gained remarkable momentum and demonstrates how a strong business model and the right strategy can take us forward. We’re gearing up for a busy and productive four days at ATM, and we look forward to networking, doing business, meeting with our partners, and forging new relationships.”

New features and innovation zones

New additions to ATM this year include IBTM@ATM, a specialised zone for business events suppliers to showcase their offerings and connect with international buyers through prescheduled appointments and business exchange sessions. As part of IBTM@ATM, a new Business Events Stage will be introduced, where industry experts will outline strategies for growth in business events and corporate travel.

ATM Travel Tech is larger than ever, with an increase of over 26% in the number of products showcased, reflecting the travel industry’s total convergence with technology and innovation, which will also house the new Start-Up and Innovation zone, dedicated to exploring the travel industry’s evolution into a tech-powered sector and its growing role as a driver of innovation.

The zone will showcase the next wave of travel pioneers and feature an immersive VR experience that promises to provide visitors with a new perspective on the possibilities within the industry.

Haitham Mattar, managing director, IHG Hotels & Resorts, says: “We are honoured to continue our longstanding partnership with Arabian Travel Market – a cornerstone event that exemplifies the strength of the travel and hospitality sector in the Middle East.

“With a legacy in the region spanning over six decades, we remain steadfast in our commitment to shaping the future of hospitality by bringing new brands and hotels in high-demand areas, elevating guest experiences and growing responsibly.

“This year’s theme for ATM of ‘connectivity’ aligns seamlessly with IHG’s ambitions – not only in enhancing travel experiences, but also in deepening the digital and human connections that truly define memorable guest journeys and unlock the full potential of travel.

ATM 2025 provides a valuable platform to celebrate our growth, showcase our expanding portfolio, and reinforce the spirit of collaboration that propels the industry forward. We look forward to engaging with our partners and peers as we collectively shape the future of travel and tourism.”

Across three main stages – the Global Stage, Future Stage, and Business Events stage – attendees will have the opportunity to gain insights from over 200 high-profile speakers across more than 70 conference sessions.

The conference programme will cover various topics, including the future of aviation, hospitality trends, climate action initiatives, and the adoption of artificial intelligence across the industry.

Mohamed Al Rais, executive director, Al Rais Travel, says: “At Al Rais Travel, we are proud to play a leading role in connecting global travellers with the rich experiences of our region.

“As the official DMC partner of ATM 2025, this year’s theme – ‘Global Travel: Developing Tomorrow’s Tourism Through Enhanced Connectivity’ – perfectly reflects the industry’s direction. Stronger partnerships and smarter integration are key to building a resilient, innovative, and future-ready tourism sector.

Aligned with Arabian Travel Market’s vision, we bring over four decades of expertise in bridging cultures and delivering seamless, personalised travel solutions. Our presence at ATM reflects our commitment to innovation and collaboration. We’re especially excited about IBTM@ATM, a new platform linking business event suppliers with global buyers.

Together with industry leaders, Al Rais is not just enabling travel – we’re building lasting connections, driving business tourism, and shaping tomorrow’s journeys. With us, the world comes closer, one experience at a time.”

Jonathan Heastie, portfolio director – travel sector, RX Global, concludes: “We’re thrilled with the event’s growth this year and expect it will add even more of the vibrant energy people have come to expect from the ATM experience.

“As a fast-moving, cosmopolitan crossroads, linking high-growth tourism regions with world-class infrastructure and innovation, we’re excited to witness the next chapter of the global travel story as it unfolds next week.”

Source : Biz Community

Tourism industry stakeholders have been urged to involve themselves in activities that will help preserve the environment.

Speaking on Thursday at the Bangladesh area in Mombasa after a mangrove restoration exercise, the Kenya Association of Travel Agents (KATA) CEO Nicanor Sabula said the environment was a major contributor to tourism in the country.

“Tourism depends on the environment, so if we do not conserve our environment, it will simply mean that the economy will also be affected. So we will give tree planting priority, and the exercise here in Bangladesh is just the start,” said Sabula.

During the exercise, KATA and other tourism stakeholders, including Kenya Coast Tourism Association (KCTA), Jambo Jet, The Pubs, Entertainment and Restaurants Association of Kenya (PERAK), partnered with the community to plant over 1,000 mangrove seedlings along the Tudor Creek in Mikindani.

Speaking after the exercise, KATA Chair Patrick Kamanga said that through KATACares, the association will follow up to ensure the seedlings planted reach maturity.

“What we do as KATA is to sell air tickets; people are traveling all over the world, and that is why we decided to give back to the community. Through KATACares, we assess areas where we can support, and this year, we chose Mombasa. We will work with the community to ensure that we make a difference,” said Kamanga.

Meanwhile, Birikani Chief Sudi Hamisi commended the exercise, saying that it will not only help in achieving President William Ruto’s target of 15 billion trees by 2032 but also provide a source of livelihood for the locals.

“Apart from the government’s target and livelihoods for the locals, such exercises help in conserving the coastal environment. We know that the coastal strip was deteriorating, and that is why the Kenya Forest Service and other stakeholders came up with the idea of Beach Management Units to help in preserving it,” said Chief Khamisi.

Peter Nyongesa is the chairman of the Tulinde Mikoko self-help group based in Mikindani. The group that produces mangrove seedlings supplied the seedlings that were planted during the restoration exercise.

“The types of trees we planted today are good for the marine life. Locals here love eating crabs, and the mangrove helps in the reproduction of crabs and other fish,” said Nyongesa.

The mangrove restoration exercise, which started at 8:30 am, also saw primary school students participate in tree planting.

Jared Oguk, a teacher at St. Mary’s Comprehensive School, said involving children in such exercise prepares them to better care for the environment in the future.

“The children are the future. Involving them in such exercises shows them how the environment is conserved and teaches them how to take care of our natural resources,” said Oguk.

The exercise was part of KATA’s Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) aimed at improving the coastline and the coastal environment.

KATA CEO Nicanor Sabula said the association aims to plant over 20,000 mangroves in the next two years.

Source: Baraka FM

As sports tourism grows internationally, popular and less well-known towns and cities are reaping the rewards, as travellers spill over into “detour destinations”.

Expedia’s survey and research report, ‘How to win big with sports tourism’ revealed that almost 50% of travellers attending sports events chose to detour to destinations close by.  Nearly 33% of respondents chose a more well-known spot close by, 20% chose a popular destination over an hour from the sporting event, and 20% chose a less-known destination close to the sporting event.

According to Expedia, this is particularly popular among younger travellers, with 88% of 16-34-year-olds exploring destinations outside their event city, indicating a shift towards a desire to seek out new places during sports trips.

Economic impact

According to Skift, sports tourism alone was worth US$565 billion (R11 trillion) in 2023, projected to grow to US$1,33 trillion (R26 trillion) by 2032.

Expedia found that travellers for sports events exhibited high spending on basics such as the sport event tickets, airfares and accommodation, and were more likely to travel for sports events taking place over more than one day, extending their average stay to two-six days.

Sports events cultivate abundant support for dining establishments, shopping centres and retailers, sightseeing attractions, historical and cultural attractions, relaxation and wellness service providers, adventure activity providers and nightlife establishments.

Source : South Africa Travel News

Kenya Airways (KQ) and Safarilink Aviation have launched a new one-way codeshare partnership aimed at expanding their network to include nine new destinations.

The one-way partnership is designed to revolutionize the way travellers access Kenya’s world-renowned safari destinations by offeringthe convenience of a single ticket for multiple flights.

Kenya Airways’ global customers can now book their international flights and domestic safari connections on a single ticket, creating a seamless and convenient travel experience.

KQ’s extensive international network will now connect with two daily flights to key airstrips in the Maasai Mara, as well as to Amboseli, Nanyuki, and Samburu.This integration eliminates the need for separate bookings, offering a streamlined journey for tourists seeking wildlife encounters.

 

Kenya Airways and Safarilink Launch Single-Ticket Flights to 9 New Destinations

According to the airline, this partnership marks a significant step in the airline’s broader growth strategy, aimed at attracting a wider audience by offering an enhanced and more convenient product solution.“It provides a competitive edge in the market and strengthens relationships with travel trade partners,” KQ noted.

KQ Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Allan Kilavuka stated that this partnership exemplifies smart innovation, bridging Kenya Airways’ global reach with Safarilink’s expertise in last-mile connectivity to key safari destinations.

“Together, we are optimizing aircraft use, reducing ground delays, and offering our guests more flexibility and smoother journeys,” he said.“Importantly, by enhancing access to these remote airstrips, we are also empowering local communities and supporting conservation efforts, as tourism is the heartbeat of Kenya.” 

In 2024, leisure travel accounted for the largest portion of tourist arrivals in Kenya, at 44.2%, underscoring the significant demand for accessible and high-quality safari adventures.

Seamless Travel to Iconic Safari Destinations

On his part, Safarilink Aviation Chief Executive Officer (CEO), Alex Avedi, expressed his excitement about the partnership, stating that Safarilink is thrilled to collaborate with Kenya Airways to offer a truly seamless travel experience to some of Kenya’s most iconic safari destinations.“Our fleet of Cessna Caravans and Dash-8 aircraft are perfectly suited to provide quick and efficient access to these remote airstrips, ensuring that visitors can maximize their time exploring the wonders of the Kenyan wilderness,” Avedi said.

Speaking during the launch event, Julius Thairu, the Chief Commercial and Customer Officer (CCCO) at Kenya Airways, noted that Kenya’s reputation as a world-class tourism destination, particularly for its exceptional safaris, continues to attract travelers from across the globe.

He further emphasized that this strategic partnership with Safarilink directly addresses the needs of today’s travelers, who prioritize efficiency and reliability.“By offering a single-ticket solution, we are making it easier and more convenient than ever for our customers to experience the magic of a Kenyan safari,” he added.

Source : The Kenya Times

Africa is becoming more connected than ever, by air. In 2025, several major international carriers are launching new routes to key African destinations, signalling renewed confidence in the region’s travel potential.

Africa is becoming more connected than ever, by air. Once known for limited direct access and long layovers, the aviation landscape across the continent is rapidly changing.

As tourism grows, business ties strengthen, and diaspora communities seek smoother travel options, airlines are stepping up to meet the demand.

In 2025, several major international carriers are launching new routes to key African destinations, signalling renewed confidence in the region’s travel potential.

This uptick in connectivity isn’t just good news for passengers, it also bodes well for trade, tourism, and investment. Increased air access can lower costs, boost local economies, and position Africa as a central player in global travel.

Here is a look at some of the most exciting new flight routes to Africa in 2025, which are making the continent more accessible, according to Condé Nast Traveller.

Virginia to Dakar, Senegal with United Airline

Starting May 23, 2025, United Airlines will introduce a new direct service connecting Washington Dulles International Airport (IAD) to Blaise Diagne International Airport (DSS) in Dakar, Senegal. The route will operate three times a week and will be served by a Boeing 767-300ER, marking a significant expansion of United’s African network.

Atlanta to Accra, Ghana with Delta

Delta Air Lines is set to launch a new seasonal daily route from Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL) to Kotoka International Airport (ACC) in Accra, Ghana. Beginning December 1, 2025, the service will be operated with the modern Airbus A330-900neo, offering travelers a more seamless and comfortable connection between the U.S. and West Africa.

Atlanta to Marrakech, Morocco with Delta Airline

Delta expands its African footprint with nonstop service from Atlanta to Morocco’s “Red City.” When Delta Air Lines launches its inaugural flights from Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL) to Marrakech Menara Airport (RAK) on October 25, 2025, it will join United Airlines as one of only two US carriers serving Morocco.

JFK, New York to Lagos with Delta Air Lines

Delta Air Lines has introduced a new seasonal route connecting New York’s John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK) to Murtala Muhammed International Airport (LOS) in Lagos, Nigeria. Operating daily during the winter season with an Airbus A330-200, this new service complements Delta’s existing flights from Atlanta, offering travelers.

Paris to Tanzania with Air France

Air France has resumed operations to Tanzania after a 28-year hiatus, introducing three weekly flights from Paris-Charles de Gaulle Airport to Kilimanjaro International Airport (KIA) with a stopover in Zanzibar. The new route enhances connectivity between Europe and East Africa, opening up more travel opportunities to one of the continent’s most iconic destinations.

London Gatwick Airport (LGW) to Sal, Cape Verde with EasyJet

On March 31, 2025, EasyJet kicked off its first-ever sub-Saharan Africa service with a new thrice-weekly route from London Gatwick Airport (LGW) to Sal, Cape Verde (SID). Operated with the fuel-efficient Airbus A320neo, the budget-friendly flight offers travelers a convenient six-hour journey from London to the breathtaking island archipelago, making tropical getaways more accessible than ever.

Munich International Airport (MUC) to Windhoek, Namibia with Discover Airlines

On April 1, 2025, Discover Airlines, a Lufthansa Group carrier, introduced a new nonstop service connecting Munich International Airport (MUC) with Windhoek Hosea Kutako International Airport (WDH) in Namibia. The route operates three times a week, offering a smooth and convenient link to Southern Africa. In April, flights depart for Windhoek on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays; from May onward, the schedule shifts to Wednesdays, Fridays, and Sundays.

Source : Africa Business Insider

Skyward Express, one of Kenya’s established domestic carriers, has officially rebranded to Skyward Airlines. The change reflects the company’s growth and evolving role in the country’s aviation landscape.

According to the airline, the rebrand represents a refreshed identity aligned with its expanded network and service offering. Skyward Airlines continues to operate scheduled flights connecting major cities and remote destinations across Kenya, serving a diverse mix of business travelers, tourists, and local communities.

The airline has made notable investments in route expansion and customer experience over the past year, positioning itself as a competitive player in the domestic aviation market.

Skyward Airlines is a member of the Kenya Association of Travel Agents (KATA) and was last year voted Second Runners-Up in the Best Domestic Airline category at the Kenya Travel Industry Business Awards (KeTIBA).

Qatar Airways is bringing the latest in cutting-edge airline luxury to this year’s Arabian Travel Market (ATM) Dubai with its ‘Qsuite Next Gen’ – the newest iteration of its multiple award-winning patented Qsuite Business Class.

Visitors and exhibitors will have the opportunity to experience the latest and greatest of the Qatar Airways’ industry-leading product from 28 April to 1 May.

The airline is setting something of a benchmark for travel innovation and business class experiences through the design of Qsuite Next Gen that features fully customisable Quad Suites creating the largest social space in the sky for groups of four and window aisle Companion Suites.  All suites have 4K OLED manoeuvrable in-flight entertainment screens that can be moved to connect the spacious and private suites.

From ambient lighting to privacy controls to the ‘Make My Bed’ button for the 5-star Qatar Airways turn-down service; ATM visitors are invited to interact with Qsuite Next Gen’s vast range of customisation options that create an unparalleled experience. Both the Quad and Companion Suites further boast increased dining space and taller digitally controlled privacy dividers, a testament to the airline’s consideration of passenger comfort in the skies.

With this year’s ATM theme, “Global Travel: Developing Tomorrow’s Tourism Through Enhanced Connectivity”, Qatar Airways will spotlight its continued investment in technology, and customer experience, reinforcing its position as a global aviation leader.

Source : ittn.ie

Paperless, tech-driven flying will soon be the order of the day as the International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO) proposes ‘digital travel credential’

Boarding Passes May Soon Be History: Here’s Why

The days of fumbling through your bag for a crumpled boarding pass or standing in never-ending check-in queues might soon be over. Airports across the world, including in India, are getting ready for a massive tech-driven makeover that could completely change how we fly. According to reports, passengers will soon be able to upload passport details to their smartphones and use only facial recognition to pass through airports, under proposals by the International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO).

Over the last few years, biometric scans, facial recognition and digital identity have slowly and steadily starting replacing old-school boarding passes. Biometric check-ins and digital boarding systems are in place at major airports globally. In fact, Ryanair is planning to scrap paper boarding passes by November 3, 2025, in a statement released on March 5.

In India too, DigiYatra in India is live at airports like Delhi, Bengaluru, Hyderabad, and Varanasi, allowing travellers to check in using facial recognition linked to their Aadhaar.But now, the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO), a UN agency that sets global aviation standards, is planning to introduce a ‘digital travel credential’. This digital ID will let you store and verify your passport information directly on your smartphone. When you book a flight, you’ll receive a “journey pass” instead of a ticket and you will be able to board flights simply by facial recognition.

This means ‘checking in’ for a flight will soon become obsolete! Whether you’re checking in luggage or travelling light with cabin bags only, everything from bag drop to security to boarding becomes frictionless, thanks to biometric scans. And this update doesn’t seem to be very far away. Airlines like British Airways, Air France-KLM, Finnair, and Saudia Airlines are already testing the new tech. British Airways says its digital tools are designed to “anticipate the needs of modern, digital travellers.”

Source : TimesNowNews

Despite the increasing cost of holidays, a significant number of travellers continue to forgo travel insurance, according to recent findings. A survey conducted by Aviva among 4,000 UK adults revealed that 11 per cent of travellers do not purchase any form of travel insurance — even though the average cost of cancelling a trip exceeds £900.

The lack of coverage can lead to serious consequences. Travellers without insurance risk facing substantial financial burdens, particularly in cases involving overseas medical treatment or emergency repatriation. Insurance also provides assistance during crises, ensuring travellers are not left without support when unexpected issues arise abroad.

Travel insurance generally offers protection against a wide range of scenarios, including emergency medical treatment, repatriation by air ambulance, and accommodation for a companion if hospitalisation occurs. Policies typically also cover trip cancellation, lost luggage, and travel delays, depending on the level of coverage selected.

There are two main types of travel insurance: single-trip and annual multi-trip. Single-trip policies cover one specific holiday, ending upon return. Annual multi-trip policies, on the other hand, cover multiple journeys within a 12-month period. For individuals who travel more than twice a year — whether on extended holidays or weekend getaways — an annual policy can offer convenience and potential cost savings. It’s particularly beneficial for those who often travel on short notice.

Travel insurance is not only relevant for international travel. Domestic holidays can also be disrupted by illness, cancellations, or accidents, and insurance provides an added layer of protection in these cases. Medical emergencies abroad, however, present the most serious financial risks. Industry experts recommend medical coverage of at least £2 million when travelling within Europe and up to £5 million for other destinations worldwide.

Timing is also a crucial factor. Purchasing travel insurance immediately after booking a trip ensures that cancellation cover is active should an unexpected issue arise before departure. Delaying the purchase may result in uncovered costs if something goes wrong before the journey begins.

When comparing travel insurance policies, consumers are advised to pay close attention to policy details and exclusions. One of the most common issues arises around pre-existing medical conditions, which many policies exclude unless explicitly declared and accepted by the insurer. It is vital for travellers to provide full and accurate medical histories to avoid invalidating their cover. Individuals over 65 or those with complex medical conditions may face limited options, as some providers impose restrictions or decline coverage altogether.

The cost of travel insurance varies significantly, influenced by factors such as age, destination, duration, medical history, and planned activities. Coverage for high-risk activities — including skiing or scuba diving — often comes with additional charges. While more expensive policies may offer broader protection, affordable plans can still provide sufficient coverage for travellers with simpler needs.

Ultimately, travel insurance serves as a financial safety net and an essential part of responsible trip planning. As the travel landscape becomes increasingly unpredictable, securing a suitable policy remains one of the most important steps a traveller can take.

Source : Independent