The rural landscapes of the world are often painted as quiet backdrops to bustling cities and resort coastlines. Yet in 2025, a major initiative led by UN Tourism (a specialised agency of the United Nations World Tourism Organization) is spotlighting small communities — and redefining what tourism can achieve beyond the usual hotspots. In its fifth edition of the “Best Tourism Villages” programme, the agency has recognised fifty‑two rural destinations from all regions as leaders of inclusive, sustainable tourism.

These recognitions mark more than just accolades: they reflect a broader shift in travel trends, rural development strategies, and the tourism industry’s role in local economies. Belo,w we explore the key angles and impacts of this initiative, why readers should care, and what it means for tourism and destinations in 2025 and beyond.

The Initiative: What It Is and What It Recognises

Launched in 2021 under the “Tourism for Rural Development” programme, the Best Tourism Villages initiative aims to identify and support rural communities with strong cultural and natural assets, committed to responsible tourism and inclusive development.

In the 2025 cycle:

• Fifty‑two villages were officially recognised this year for meeting the full criteria of the programme.
• An additional twenty villages were selected for a dedicated Upgrade Programme — helping high‑potential communities improve before full recognition.
• With the new additions, the network of recognised Best Tourism Villages now numbers three hundred and nineteen globally.

The selection criteria are robust and multi‑dimensional. Communities were assessed on nine key areas: cultural and natural resources; promotion and conservation of cultural resources; economic, social, and environmental sustainability; tourism development and value‑chain integration; governance and prioritisation of tourism; infrastructure and connectivity; and health, safety, and security.

The Tourism Angle: What This Means for Travel and Destinations

1. New Travel Narratives and Experiences

For travellers increasingly seeking experiences beyond beaches and cities, these rural villages offer authentic alternatives. The recognition signals that these destinations deliver more than superficial tourism — their value lies in local culture, heritage, nature, and community engagement. As one travel commentary put it, choosing such a village means entering a destination where visitors support local livelihoods, engage with traditions, and connect at a slower pace.

2. Supporting Rural Economies through Tourism

When a village is recognised under this initiative, the spotlight draws attention. That often translates into increased visitor numbers, higher visitation spend, more interest from travel media and platforms, and awareness among specialised tour operators. All of this can contribute to local economic diversification — especially for rural communities whose traditional industries may be limited. In turn, tourism becomes a pathway to shared prosperity, inclusive growth, and territorial cohesion.

3. Destination Diversification and Off‑Peak Resilience

Many destinations rely heavily on peak seasons in urban or coastal zones. The Best Tourism Villages programme helps highlight lesser‑known areas, spreading tourism flows and alleviating pressure on crowded destinations. Moreover, rural destinations often have different seasonal rhythms — promoting them helps build resilience by opening new travel windows. For example, a village recognised now becomes a compelling reason to travel outside the main travel surges.

4. Sustainability and Community‑Based Tourism as Core Values

Sustainability is not just an add‑on — it is central to this initiative. Villages must show how tourism is embedded in community values, how heritage and nature are preserved, and how visitors impact is managed. For responsible travellers, recognition offers a credible filter: these are places where tourism is doing good, not just taking.

Impact at Destination Level: What Villages Can Gain

Visibility and Branding

Being listed as a “Best Tourism Village” is a badge of quality. It offers global visibility via UN Tourism’s platforms and media coverage. This can help destinations attract tour operators, media features, and independent travellers looking for credible alternatives.

Increased Visitor Interest & Bookings

Media reporting suggests that villages recognised in previous years saw a boost in tourism interest. For example, smaller communities on islands or lesser‑known regions reported increased search traffic and booking enquiries following their award. This effect is likely to be replicated with the 2025 list.

Local Capacity Building & Improvement

The Upgrade Programme offers mentoring and capacity‑building for communities moving towards full recognition. Infrastructure, governance, connectivity, and value‑chain integration are often improved as a result. This means long‑term benefit rather than one‑off recognition.

Tourism Spread and Balanced Growth

By promoting rural destinations, the initiative supports the redistribution of tourism benefits beyond major cities and resorts. This aligns with rural development goals and can help reduce regional imbalances. Economies traditionally reliant on agriculture, artisanal industries, or nature‑based practices can now diversify via tourism.

Risk Moderation for Destinations

For destinations overexposed to mass tourism, the recognition of rural villages offers an alternative model. A focus on smaller-scale, community‑driven tourism may be more resilient to global shocks (e.g., pandemics, climate events) and can help destinations avoid overtourism pitfalls.

Why Tourism Professionals and Travellers Should Pay Attention

• Travel planners: For tour operators and destination managers, the list provides a curated set of villages worth visiting, promoting, or including in itineraries. The criteria mean they are likely to deliver quality experiences aligned with sustainability trends.
• Investors & Governments: For policy‑makers and development agencies, the initiative highlights the efficacy of rural tourism as a tool for economic and social development. Recognised villages can serve as case studies or models.
• Travellers: For the conscious traveller, these destinations offer meaningful stays — engaging with communities, culture, and nature, rather than simply checking boxes. The recognition assures responsible practices.

Challenges & Considerations

It’s worth recognising that inclusion on the list is not a guarantee of overnight transformation. Destinations still need to scale infrastructure, connectivity, accommodation, and visitor services. For some villages, limiting visitor numbers to maintain sustainability is essential. Additionally, as tourism interest grows, local communities must manage change carefully to avoid commodification of culture or environmental degradation.

There is also the issue of representation: for example, in 2025, no Indian village was included in the list, despite the country’s vast rural tourism potential. This suggests challenges remain around documentation, connectivity, governance, or meeting the stringent criteria.

Looking Ahead: What This Means for Travel Trends in 2025–26

• Growth in “Slow Travel”: Understanding tourism as slower, immersive experiences rather than high‑volume visits will increase. These villages fit that trend.
• Shift to Rural Tourism: As urban and coastal destinations face crowding or sustainability pressures, rural tourism will become part of destination portfolios.
• Integration of Culture & Nature: The successful villages blend built heritage, indigenous culture, landscapes, and modern hospitality. This hospitable hybrid will influence destination design.
• Premiumisation of Rural Stays: While rural tourism often conjures budget stays, many of the recognised villages are attracting higher‑end travellers as they improve standards and connectivity.
• Strategic Development Support: Governments and tourism boards will increasingly view such initiatives as tools for diversification, inclusion, and resilience.

A Few Examples to Illustrate the Global Spread

The recognised villages span continents. Some examples:

• Koyasan in Japan — a spiritual mountain settlement.
• Pemuteran in Indonesia — a coastal village noted for marine conservation and sustainable tourism.
• Ezcaray in Spain — one of the two Spanish villages on the list this year.

These cases show how different geographies, cultures, and tourism models can meet the common criteria of sustainable, community‑driven tourism.

For Destination Marketers and Planners: Strategic Implications

• Use the recognition as a marketing anchor. Having the “Best Tourism Villages” label from UN Tourism can enhance the destination’s narrative internationally.
• Leverage the principles of the initiative for local development strategies: prioritise sustainability, local value chains, community governance, and visitor management.
• Plan for infrastructure and capacity upgrades ahead of rising visitor numbers to maintain quality and local benefits.
• Ensure tourism development is inclusive: communities should participate in decision‑making, benefit from revenue streams, and preserve cultural integrity.
• Monitor and adapt: as the global travel market evolves, the hallmark of success will be adaptability, culture‑first design, and conscious scalability rather than mass growth.

Why This Source of Travel Inspiration Matters

The 2025 list of Best Tourism Villages marks a turning point in how travel is framed — less about iconic city skylines or beach resorts, and more about places where culture, nature and c, and community coexist in harmony with visitors. For travellers, this means fresh, meaningful options. For destinations, it means tourism that contributes rather than consumes.

Whether you’re a traveller seeking a unique holiday, a destination professional looking for best‑practice models, or a tourism board aiming to diversify your region’s offering, these rural communities and their recognition under UN Tourism’s initiative are worth watching.

Because truly sustainable tourism isn’t just about reaching new places — it’s about ensuring those places flourish with visitors, communities and n, and nature in a balanced way.

Source: travelandtourworld.com

Advanced technology, cultural authenticity, and hyper-personalisation will shape the next generation of ultra-luxury travel, according to the organisers of Arabian Travel Market – ATM 2026.

The event, set to take place at Dubai World Trade Centre from 4–7 May 2026, will examine how innovation and individuality are transforming the high-end tourism sector under the theme “Travel 2040: Driving New Frontiers Through Innovation and Technology.”

ATM 2026 will introduce the ATM Ultra Luxury Lounge, a dedicated space designed to connect ultra-high-net-worth travellers with global luxury brands, private jet operators, and bespoke tour specialists. The new feature marks the start of a multi-year focus on the evolving relationship between luxury, technology, and sustainability, reflecting growing demand for purpose-driven, experience-led travel in the Middle East and beyond.

Technology, Authenticity and Sustainability Lead the Shift

Once defined by comfort and exclusivity, ultra-luxury travel is now evolving toward transformation through access, personalisation, and conscious design. Research from Fortune Business Insights shows that the global luxury travel market is projected to grow from US$2.7 trillion in 2025 to US$4.8 trillion by 2032. Advisory firm Creative Zone estimates that the private jet market alone could exceed US$943 million by 2029, underscoring the sector’s rapid expansion.

Danielle Curtis, Exhibition Director ME, Arabian Travel Market, said: “While luxury travel remains one of ATM’s strongest growth pillars, ultra-luxury is emerging as the next frontier, reflecting the region’s maturing market and high-spending audience. To meet this growing demand, we have created the ATM Ultra Luxury Lounge, an exclusive space designed to connect ultra-luxury brands with buyers serving high-net-worth travellers.”

Curtis added that major projects such as Saudi Arabia’s Red Sea developments, the upcoming Cheval Blanc on Dubai’s Naïa Island, and the private island-based Bvlgari Resort & Mansions in Abu Dhabi highlight the region’s expanding role in shaping ultra-luxury travel experiences.

Middle East Driving Global Luxury Tourism Growth

According to the ATM Travel Trends Report 2025, developed in partnership with Tourism Economics, luxury travel demand continues to outperform global averages. Outbound regional luxury travel is growing at twice the world rate, with Middle East travellers spending around 50% more per trip than the global average.

Luxury destination brands including Mandarin Oriental, Four Seasons Hotels & Resorts, Jumeirah International, and One&Only will join leading island destinations such as the Maldives and Mauritius in showcasing high-end offerings at the 2026 edition.

“Luxury travel is no longer defined by opulence alone, but by purpose, connection, and transformation,” said Curtis. “Today’s discerning travellers are seeking experiences that are not only exclusive but also meaningful, journeys that enrich their wellbeing, reflect their values, and deepen their connection with the world around them.”

As the event enters its 33rd year, ATM 2026 will also feature IBTM @ ATM for the meetings and events industry and ATM Travel Tech, which will host more than 180 exhibitors across two halls. The event aims to reinforce Dubai’s position as a global hub for tourism innovation and collaboration while setting the agenda for the future of ultra-luxury travel.

Source: ftnnews.com

Innovation, sustainability, and collaboration took center stage at the official opening of the Getaway Tourism Fair 2025, held at the Sarit Expo Centre from October 30 to November 1. The three-day event brought together key players from across Kenya’s tourism and travel ecosystem, reaffirming the sector’s resilience and shared vision for sustainable growth.

The opening ceremony was graced by Tourism Regulatory Authority (TRA) Director General Norbert Talaam, Kenya Association of Travel Agents (KATA) CEO Nicanor Sabula, Sarit Centre CEO Sarit Shah, and a cross-section of industry leaders and exhibitors. The dignitaries hailed the fair as a catalyst for collaboration and innovation, positioning it as one of the country’s premier showcases for tourism products, destinations, and travel solutions.

In his remarks, Mr. Talaam commended the private sector’s role in driving Kenya’s tourism competitiveness, noting that public-private partnerships were crucial in building a sustainable future for the industry. “Events such as the Getaway Tourism Fair provide a platform where ideas meet opportunity,” he said. “They allow us to celebrate creativity, promote local destinations, and explore ways to align tourism growth with environmental responsibility.”

KATA CEO Nicanor Sabula highlighted the fair’s continued role in supporting Kenya’s travel trade and underscored the importance of collaboration in rebuilding and reimagining the sector in a rapidly changing global landscape. “The Getaway Fair has become a hub for meaningful engagement between travel agents, tour operators, and destination partners,” he said. “It represents the spirit of innovation and unity that continues to define Kenya’s tourism recovery and transformation.”

Sarit Centre CEO Sarit Shah praised the enduring partnership between the Sarit Expo Centre and KATA, which has made the Getaway Fair a consistent fixture in the tourism calendar. “For years, this event has showcased the best of what our industry has to offer,” he noted. “We are proud to host partners who are not only marketing travel but also shaping the future of tourism through sustainable and inclusive practices.”

Over the three days, the fair featured exhibitions from airlines, hotels, tour operators, and destination management companies, alongside interactive sessions and product showcases. Participants explored emerging trends such as green tourism, digital transformation, and regional cooperation as drivers of growth and resilience.

Beyond the exhibition halls, the event reinforced the message that Kenya’s tourism success depends on collaboration, innovation, and sustainability — values deeply embedded in the work of both KATA and the Sarit Centre.

As the curtains closed on the 2025 edition, stakeholders expressed optimism that the fair would continue to inspire new partnerships, empower travel professionals, and advance Kenya’s tourism ambitions both locally and globally.

With renewed commitment and shared purpose, the Getaway Tourism Fair remains a shining example of how the industry can come together to reimagine travel — sustainably, creatively, and collaboratively.

The enticing fragrance of grilled spices and local flavors is transforming Africa’s travel and trade landscape. Africa’s rapidly growing food festivals are showcasing the continent’s cuisine and culture as drivers of economic growth. African nations, from Ghana and Kenya to Morocco and Egypt, are using the culinary arts to enhance gastronomy tourism, attract investment, and express their culture to the world.

Gastronomy tourism is now regarded by stakeholders and policymakers as a legitimate form culinary diplomacy to develop Africa. This unique tourism style combines trade, tradition, and innovation to facilitate development across the continent.

Ghana Leads with AfroGastro Festival

In Accra, Ghana’s first government-backed AfroGastro Festival in October 2025 turned dining into a multisensory celebration. The festival, organised under the Ministry of Tourism, Culture and Creative Arts, drew chefs from twelve African and diaspora nations. Visitors enjoyed modern takes on traditional dishes like jollof rice, fufu, and suya, while live music and dance performances transformed the venue into a cultural stage.

Pop-up kitchens showcased Africa’s culinary diversity — from North African spice markets to West African stews and Southern African grills. The event highlighted Ghana’s growing investment in food-based tourism and its recognition of gastronomy as a strategic export sector.

The ministry described the initiative as part of a national plan to promote “culinary diplomacy,” treating cuisine as a bridge between nations and a tool for strengthening economic partnerships.

Nigeria’s Food Festivals Turn Taste into Tourism

Nigeria’s tourism industry has embraced food as a gateway to cultural experience. The Naija Food Festival and the African Food & Drinks Festival have become annual highlights that attract both local and international visitors.

The Naija Food Festival, held in Lagos in October 2025, featured chefs, producers, and food brands showcasing the diversity of Nigerian cuisine — from smoky jollof and spicy pepper soup to creative fusions that blend indigenous ingredients with global techniques. Organisers reported record attendance, noting that food tourism is helping drive domestic travel and local entrepreneurship.

A week later, the African Food & Drinks Festival, also in Lagos, marked its fifth year with over 30,000 attendees and dozens of culinary exhibitors. The event is set to expand to Abuja in mid-November, reinforcing Nigeria’s position as one of Africa’s leading culinary tourism destinations.

Kenya’s Street Food Scene Draws Global Attention

In East Africa, Kenya is using its thriving street food culture to attract urban tourists and international visitors. The Nairobi Street Food Festival, returning for its sixth edition this November,celebrates the city’s vibrant informal dining scene — from chapati and ugali to nyama choma and coastal seafood.

Held at the ASK Arena, the festival transforms local street fare into a platform for creative enterprise. Visitors can sample foods from across the country while enjoying live performances, artisanal coffee tastings, and craft markets. The event also encourages sustainable tourism by spotlighting small food vendors and promoting urban culinary heritage.

Egypt’s Festivals Blend Food, Art, and Heritage

Further north, Egypt continues to solidify its role as a regional hub for culinary and cultural tourism. Cairo Food Week, held from September 25 to October 2, turned the Egyptian capital into a citywide dining showcase. The festival featured collaborations between world-class chefs and rising Egyptian talents, with events staged at landmarks like the Grand Egyptian Museum. Its centrepiece, “The King’s Feast,” combined food, performance, and history in a theatrical dining experience.

Shortly after, Cairo Bites brought a more casual, family-friendly vibe to the Open Air Mall in Madinaty. With more than 30,000 visitors and 100 food brands, the event blended live music, cooking demos, and interactive food “passport” challenges, reinforcing Cairo’s reputation as a gastronomic hotspot that appeals to diverse audiences.

Morocco Blends Trade and Tourism

In North Africa, Morocco continues to integrate gastronomy with commerce. The Africa Food Show Morocco 2025, scheduled for November 19–21 in Casablanca, will connect hundreds of exhibitors from across Africa and Europe.

Part of a broader pan-African series that includes Kenya and Côte d’Ivoire, the trade fair links food producers, buyers, and investors across the value chain — from farming technology to packaging and export logistics. Organisers describe it as “a hub where business meets culture,” reflecting Morocco’s ambition to position itself as a centre for agri-food innovation and sustainable trade.

Building a Pan-African Gastronomy Movement

Across the continent, gastronomy is being redefined as both cultural capital and an economic opportunity. Educational institutions and tourism boards are investing in training programs, food entrepreneurship, and culinary innovation. The goal is to build local value chains that empower farmers, women, and youth while preserving Africa’s culinary heritage.

This trend aligns with a broader continental vision promoted by UN Tourism, which estimates that gastronomy tourism accounts for over 20% of global tourism spending. Though Africa’s share remains modest, it is expanding rapidly as countries diversify beyond wildlife and beach tourism.

Global Support and Regional Collaboration

In March 2025, Tanzania hosted the Second UN Regional Forum on Gastronomy Tourism for Africa in Arusha, co-organised by UN Tourism and the Basque Culinary Centre. The forum promoted gastronomy as a catalyst for inclusive growth, local empowerment, and cross-border cooperation.

Tanzania’s Minister for Natural Resources and Tourism, Dr. Pindi Hazara Chana, described gastronomy tourism as vital to UN Tourism’s “Agenda for Africa,” citing its power to preserve heritage, strengthen communities, and build resilience.

The Diaspora Connection and Future Outlook

Ghana’s AfroGastro Festival emphasized the role of Africa’s diaspora in culinary tourism. Caribbean and Latin American chefs converged with their African counterparts, integrating food diplomacy into Ghana’s “Beyond the Return” initiative — a long-term diaspora engagement campaign.

In the same vein, AJABU Cocktail and Spirits Festival in Johannesburg, South Africa, introduced the world to Africa’s evolving craft beverage industry. Global mixologists presented various African-inspired cocktails and showcased the festival as a lifestyle event and tourism draw.

Innovatively, food is developing as a common language across Africa to promote identity. It invites the world to experience the continent’s culinary tourism and strengthen economic relationships. With discerning, global, and trade-boosting tourists, Africa’s culinary destinations will offer stories and opportunities, in addition to food.

Source: travelandtourworld.com

Since ChatGPT’s big public debut already close to three years ago, Google has faced persistent questions about its decades-long hold over internet search traffic. That concern surfaced again in recent weeks after a top Apple executive alluded to a decline in search traffic on iPhone (where Google is the default search engine in the Safari browser) during court testimony. Amid a stock slide, Google was quick to issue a statement saying its search business was fine. In an earlier panic over ChatGPT, Google founder Sergey Brin spoke out to say he has full confidence Google will figure out the business models to succeed.

In addition to the start of testing of AI search on its homepage this week, Google’s debut of agentic AI for travel is a good example of where the business models are headed.

With the summer travel season approaching, Google recently rolled out new updates for Search, Maps, image-based search tool Lens and its Gemini AI to provide people with new ways to book, plan and experience trips.

Max Starkov, hospitality and travel technologist, says the Gemini AI agents, and other agentic AI competitors, are one of the biggest moments in the history of the online travel industry. 

“Transitioning travel from mobile-first to AI-first will be the greatest transformation of our industry since the advent of the internet,” he said. “Within this AI transformation, I believe agentic AI like the Gemini AI agent will have the single biggest impact on our industry.”

OpenAI’s Operator, which launched back in January, can automate tasks such as vacation planning.

Expedia is already live with the OpenAI tool, and is also partnering with Microsoft‘s Copilot Actions, an agentic AI tech which automates tasks like travel booking and reservations. Last week, Expedia launched a new AI-powered tool called Expedia Trip Matching, currently available to early access users on Instagram, which allows travelers to build an itinerary based on an Instagram Reel and then book directly on Expedia.

The change away from traditional user inputs and to agentic AI is significant, according to Jay Richmond, senior director at travel consultant Amadeus. “Today, travel companies provide us with trip recommendations based on search parameters we specify, like date and budget, as well as our browsing and purchase history to present a large range of options. Personalization exists but is limited by a significant lack of context, and context is everything when it comes to planning a trip,” said Richmond.

Natural language chat AI agents are already more effective at eliciting this context.

“Imagine you have tasked a personal assistant with organizing a business trip from Europe to the U.S. During that interaction your assistant is able to understand that you absolutely must return home in time for your child’s birthday, that your trip will last for three nights, and you are free on Thursday evening when your favorite band happens to be playing in town,” Richmond said.

Rather than returning a page of options generated by a search containing only dates and locations, the AI agent can apply sentiment analysis and reasoning logic to offer recommendations that better meet the traveler’s needs, Richmond said.

‘This isn’t about AI assistants anymore’

A Google blog post detailing the various use cases for the AI agents points to AI Overviews, a hotel price-tracking tool similar to its flight-cost trackers, as well as Lens, which allows users to take a picture of virtually anything and build an itinerary around it, learn more about what they’re looking at, create AI-built personalized tours, or translate items in the image into their chosen language. 

“Travelers are finding these features incredibly useful for accessing information and asking new kinds of questions, helping them save time and focus on enjoying their destination,” a Google spokesperson said. 

Amadeus, Microsoft and Accenture have collaborated on a trip planning agent which is available to users of Amadeus’ Cytric Easy, a booking tool for business travel. Users can chat with a natural language agent through Microsoft Teams, replacing traditional sequential search with a conversational interface to plan and book relevant business trips. 

Ultimately, the use of agentic AI in travel is being designed to make decisions and take actions autonomously, adapting to changing environments, rather than just reacting to an input. That is both an opportunity and a threat to the major players that could be disintermediated from the travel business. 

“The presumption is that AI agents can research, plan and book travelers’ vacations autonomously, thus circumventing online travel agents and other intermediaries,” Starkov said. “This isn’t about AI assistants anymore; it’s about fully autonomous agent networks that execute complex workflows in real time,” he added.

And it is a travel planning conversation that will extend both ways, with similar agentic AI continuing to develop on the travel supplier side of the interactions. Whether airline, hotel, or car rental company, the AI will have increasing access to all data points across travel inventory. The travel supplier AI agent will be fully interfaced with the AI search platforms and the travel supplier’s tech stack, in order to know everything that there is to know about known customers, and deal with new unknown customers, as well, Starkov said.

“In a world where AI agents act on behalf of the traveler, it’s likely those agents will be in constant contact with AI agents representing airlines, hotels, and destination providers,” Richmond said, adding “your agent will convey your requirements and receive replies from agents representing travel providers or travel aggregators.”

In fact, Richmond says the agents may well negotiate with each other before your agent returns what it considers to be the most relevant options for your trip. Those options would ideally include one major travel planning goal that won’t change for consumers in the AI era, according to Richmond: “getting the best price,” he said.

Source: nbc.com

The travel industry came together this week to celebrate Nassir Ladha of Fleet Travel, recognized as the top seller for Kenya Airways’ inaugural flight to Gatwick. His impressive performance earned him a return ticket to Gatwick courtesy of Kenya Airways, with hotel accommodation sponsored by Travelport — a gesture that underscored the power of collaboration in Kenya’s dynamic travel ecosystem.

The recognition event, attended by representatives from Kenya Airways (KQ), Travelport, and the Kenya Association of Travel Agents (KATA), marked a high point in an ongoing partnership that has played a pivotal role in driving awareness and sales for the Nairobi–Gatwick route.

Launched on 2 July 2025, the route marked a significant milestone for Kenya Airways as it introduced its second London gateway alongside Heathrow. Operating three times a week — on Wednesdays, Fridays, and Sundays — the service has strengthened connectivity between Kenya and the United Kingdom, opening new avenues for tourism, business travel, and diaspora engagement. The route also reflects KQ’s strategic vision to diversify its European footprint while enhancing convenience for travellers on both ends.

Since the launch, Kenya Airways and Travelport have worked hand in hand to promote the route across the travel trade. Through Travelport’s vast agent network, joint marketing campaigns, and incentive programs, the two organizations have effectively positioned the Gatwick route as a key travel option for passengers seeking flexibility, affordability, and convenience.

Speaking during the celebration, Nita Nagi, Travelport’s Regional Manager for East Africa, emphasized the significance of collaboration between technology providers and airlines in today’s travel landscape.

“Our partnership with Kenya Airways goes beyond distribution — it’s about empowering travel agents with the tools, insights, and motivation they need to succeed,” said Ms. Nagi. “The success of the Gatwick route is a clear example of how industry collaboration can translate into real market results. We are proud to support Kenya Airways and our agency partners in delivering exceptional value to travellers while strengthening Kenya’s connectivity to the world.”

Officials from Kenya Airways echoed the sentiment, noting that partnerships with technology partners such as Travelport remain central to their growth strategy. By equipping travel agents with the latest booking technology and product information, KQ and Travelport are ensuring the trade community remains at the heart of aviation growth.

The event also celebrated the contribution of travel agents like Nassir Ladha, whose outstanding sales performance demonstrates the impact of motivated and well-supported travel professionals. His achievement reflects the shared commitment between Kenya Airways and Travelport to recognize excellence and foster innovation within the travel trade.

As the Gatwick route continues to gain momentum, both Kenya Airways and Travelport reaffirmed their commitment to deepening collaboration — investing in market engagement, supporting trade partnerships, and rewarding the agents driving Kenya’s aviation success story forward.

Together, the two organizations are not only connecting destinations but also shaping the future of Kenya’s travel industry through technology, partnership, and people.

Dubai and  Las Vegas, two of the world’s most famous travel destinations, are increasingly finding themselves in competition, particularly in the realm of tourism. Both cities, known for their desert landscapes, large-scale events, and vibrant hospitality scenes, are evolving at a rapid pace. Recently, Dubai has made a move that could significantly alter the dynamics of global tourism—by launching its first casinos. Could this new venture help Dubai challenge Las Vegas’ long-standing dominance in the travel and entertainment industry?

Dubai’s Tourism Surge: More Than Just a Layover Hub

Historically, Dubai was known primarily as a transfer hub—a city travelers passed through on layovers without spending much time. However, the city has undergone a significant transformation in recent years, evolving into a thriving global destination in its own right. The introduction of luxury hotels, fine dining, shopping malls, and entertainment venues has created a compelling reason for visitors to extend their stays rather than simply transit through the city.

Over the past decade, Dubai has increased its hotel infrastructure significantly, doubling the number of available hotel rooms. As of now, Dubai ranks just behind London in terms of global hotel room capacity, with only a few Chinese cities, benefiting from massive domestic tourism, having more rooms. According to data from CoStar Group, Dubai now boasts more hotel rooms than Las Vegas, a notable achievement for the emirate.

This rapid expansion has been driven by a surge in both tourism and investment in the hospitality sector. Hotels across all price ranges—from budget accommodations to five-star luxury resorts—are now available to cater to a diverse international audience. Dubai’s ambitious plans don’t show signs of slowing down, with more than 50 hotels currently under construction, adding over 15,000 new rooms to the city’s inventory. The opening of the Ciel Tower, set to become the world’s tallest hotel, is just one example of the city’s commitment to maintaining its position as a major player in the global tourism market.

A New Era for Dubai: The Introduction of Casinos

Perhaps the most striking new development in Dubai’s tourism landscape is its decision to issue the first-ever casino licenses. This marks a significant shift for the city, which has traditionally been conservative in its approach to gambling. While Las Vegas is famous for its sprawling casinos and vibrant nightlife, Dubai’s entry into this arena could change the balance of power in the luxury tourism sector.

The decision to legalize casinos comes at a time when Dubai is already making major strides in entertainment and leisure offerings. The city’s burgeoning reputation as a luxury destination, combined with its favorable winter weather, positions it to attract a new wave of high-end tourists. As global travelers increasingly seek exotic, all-inclusive experiences, Dubai’s move to integrate casinos into its tourism offerings could give it a competitive edge, especially for those seeking a mix of luxury, culture, and entertainment.

Las Vegas Faces Challenges: Shifting Tourism Trends

While Dubai is making notable strides in the tourism sector, Las Vegas, the traditional leader in the global resort market, is facing some challenges. Over the past several months, Las Vegas has seen a decline in hotel occupancy rates, especially on the Strip. From February 2025 to May 2025, occupancy rates dipped between 1 and 5% when compared to the same period the previous year. This downturn can be attributed to several factors, including geopolitical tensions, changes in international travel behavior, and increased tariffs, which have negatively impacted tourism to the U.S.

Moreover, shifts in traveler behavior—particularly from neighboring countries such as Canada—have added to Las Vegas’ struggles. With the U.S. facing a broader decline in international visitors due to economic and political issues, Las Vegas is finding it increasingly difficult to maintain its standing as the world’s premier resort destination. While the city continues to focus on sports-related ventures, such as acquiring NFL, NHL, and WNBA teams, it may be too early to determine whether these moves can successfully counterbalance the broader challenges.

Dubai’s Appeal: A Riveting Alternative to  Las Vegas

Despite the difficulties faced by Las Vegas, Dubai has steadily been building its appeal as a tourist destination, drawing millions of international visitors every year. In 2025, Dubai has outpaced Las Vegas in hotel occupancy, reporting an average of 83% occupancy between January and May, up from 81% in the same period the previous year. This growth indicates that Dubai is not only attracting more visitors but is also succeeding in enticing them to stay longer and spend more.

Dubai’s strategic geographic location, ease of access, and cultural offerings have all contributed to the city’s increasing popularity. With attractions like the Burj Khalifa, Palm Jumeirah, and the Dubai Mall, as well as world-class dining and shopping, the city offers an eclectic mix of entertainment, relaxation, and luxury. Additionally, Dubai’s emphasis on large-scale events, such as Formula 1 races, NBA preseason games, and international concerts, has made it an even more attractive destination for tourists.

With the introduction of casinos, Dubai’s tourism offerings will likely expand even further, positioning it as a true competitor to Las Vegas in the global travel market. The emirate’s plans to attract high-end gamblers could draw a new wave of wealthy visitors who would typically flock to Las Vegas for its iconic casino experiences.

Dubai’s Resilience: Thriving Despite Regional Instability

One of the most remarkable aspects of Dubai’s tourism success is its ability to thrive despite regional instability and geopolitical challenges. For example, the 12-day closure of UAE airspace during the Israel-Iran conflict in June 2025 briefly disrupted international travel. However, Dubai’s resilience in the face of such setbacks is a testament to its growing status as a global tourism hub.

In contrast, Las Vegas has struggled with issues stemming from the broader challenges of international tourism to the United States, including tariffs and tensions with neighboring countries like Canada. While these factors have contributed to a decline in Las Vegas’ hotel occupancy rates, Dubai has continued to show growth, attracting tourists with its diverse offerings, luxurious infrastructure, and forward-thinking approach to hospitality.

The Future of Luxury Travel

Although both locations are vying to be the dominant city in the world regarding luxury tourism, due to Dubai’s recent growth and innovations mixed with the recent casino licenses, it can be seen as a competitor to Las Vegas. Dubai is able to broaden its appeal and tourism options and more than likely compete with Las Vegas for the title of the world’s luxury entertainment capital. Dubai’s unparalleled selection of attractions coupled with the addition of casinos will offer tourists a unique combination of luxury, relaxation, and leisure all in a rich cultural setting, significantly increasing its ability to compete with Las Vegas.

Source: travelandtourworld.com

Kenya Airways’ Pride Lounge at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA) has been recognised among the top 10 percent of airport lounges worldwide in the 2025 TripAdvisor Travellers’ Choice Awards. The recognition places the facility among the world’s leading airport lounges, highlighting the airline’s commitment to world-class service, design, and comfort.

The Pride Lounge serves as Kenya Airways’ flagship facility at JKIA, offering travellers a refined environment that blends Kenyan heritage with contemporary elegance. Its expansive, circular layout provides panoramic views of the airside, where guests can watch aircraft taxi, land, and take off — from the Airbus fleet to the Maasai Mara Dreamliner.

Inside, the lounge takes guests on a visual journey through Kenya’s diverse landscapes. The experience begins with a rainforest-inspired setting drawn from Kakamega Forest in Western Kenya, featuring lush green and earthy tones. The Business Experience Centre offers a balance of aesthetics and functionality, with modern fittings, workspaces equipped with tablets, universal sockets, and high-speed Wi-Fi.

The design then transitions into a coastal theme expressed through blue and purple tones, coral-textured walls, and Italian-designed seating. The dining area combines formal and relaxed arrangements beneath a striking honeycomb ceiling. A live cooking station, introduced in October, adds an interactive element to the dining experience, serving freshly prepared dishes made from locally sourced ingredients.

Further inside, the lounge adopts a savannah-inspired ambiance for quiet relaxation, leading to a napping area with dune-patterned carpets and earthy hues reminiscent of Kenya’s desert landscapes. The smoking room, furnished with the iconic Mvule bench, provides an elegant retreat for travellers seeking calm before departure.

Kenya Airways operates three other lounges at JKIA alongside the Pride Lounge, each tailored to a distinct traveller profile. The Simba Lounge, named after the Swahili word for lion, offers a regal yet relaxed atmosphere with buffet dining, bar service, and private work areas suited to business travellers. The Asante Lounge, whose name means “thank you,” provides a warm and intimate space designed for regional and short-haul passengers, combining comfort with understated sophistication. The Msafiri Lounge, open to all passengers at a fee, extends similar hospitality to economy travellers, offering refreshments, comfortable seating, and a quiet environment for rest or work.

Together, the four lounges showcase Kenya Airways’ effort to redefine the pre-flight experience by combining design, comfort, and a sense of place rooted in Kenyan identity. The TripAdvisor recognition affirms the airline’s continued focus on providing travellers with an experience that reflects both global standards and the warmth of African hospitality.