The big changes coming to UK and European travel in 2025

Getty Images Travellers in line at UK customs (Credit:Getty Images)
There will soon be an additional step to visit the UK even if you don’t need a visa (Credit:Getty Images)

Many international travellers will soon need to register for an online authorisation before touching down in the UK or many EU nations.

Millions of travellers planning a trip to the UK will soon need to register for an online authorisation before landing – even if they’re just transiting en route to their final destination.

From 8 January 2025, visitors from the United States, Canada, Australia and other non-European nations who currently do not need a visa for short stays in the UK will be required to obtain an Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) to enter the country.

To receive an ETA, travellers must fill out an online form and pay a £10 fee (approximately US $12.75). Applicants should hear if their authorisation has been approved in a few hours, but in some cases, a decision may take up to three business days. The authorisation is valid for multiple entries to the UK for stays of up to six months and is good for a two-year period or until the traveller’s passport expires – whichever comes first.

The new authorisation isn’t just aimed at non-Europeans, though: beginning on 2 April 2025, EU nationals will also be required to obtain an ETA before entering the UK. (Citizens of the UK, Ireland and those with valid UK visas will be exempt.)

According to the UK government’s Home Office, the expansion of the ETA scheme (which previously only applied to citizens of seven Middle Eastern nations) is aimed at creating a more streamlined entry system by confirming traveller eligibility to enter the UK before they leave their country of origin. When boarding a plane to the UK, gate agents will verify your ETA status via digital link to your passport thereby reducing time and confusion at border crossings. The Home Office also says the biographic, biometric and contact details collected during the application process will also help to increase security by better tracking traveller movements.

“This expansion of ETA is a significant step forward in delivering a border that’s efficient and fit for the digital age,” Seema Malhotra, UK Minister for Migration and Citizenship, said in a statement. “Through light-touch screening before people step foot in the UK, we will keep our country safe while ensuring visitors have a smooth travel experience.”

Getty Images US Airport Face Scan: A growing number of countries are transitioning to digital border crossings (Credit: Getty Images)
US Airport Face Scan: A growing number of countries are transitioning to digital border crossings (Credit: Getty Images)

The UK’s ETA expansion is just one example of several new electronic entry programmes being rolled out around the world. Starting in the spring of 2025, the EU will require a new travel authorisation for visa-exempt foreigners from 60 nations (including the UK, US, Canada and Australia) before they are allowed to enter 30 EU nations. Similar to the ETA, this new programme, called the European Travel Information and Authorisation System (ETIAS), requires short-term travellers to apply online, pay a small fee (€7 – roughly US $7.40 or £5.80) and then wait up to 96 hours for applications to be approved.

The EU is also poised to launch a separate digital monitoring initiative called the Entry/Exit System (EES), which uses face and fingerprint scans instead of passports to identify non-EU nationals. Unlike the ETIAS, this new security measure (which was scheduled to roll out in November 2024 but has been delayed until sometime in 2025) doesn’t require travellers to apply for anything before they start their trip. Instead, travellers will be registered upon entering any of the 29 EU nations using the system.

According to the EU’s travel information website, the goal of the EES is to modernise border crossings and speed up long immigration lines that have surged with the post-pandemic travel demand. Like other digital entry systems that have been in place for years around the world – such as in the US, Canada, and Australia – the new entry system is also aimed at combatting identity fraud and the number of people overstaying in the EU.

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However, not everyone is happy about the increased digitisation of the border entry process. Critics of the expanded ETA scheme are concerned that the extra process and fee will be a barrier to younger and less affluent travellers. Others worry that as nations and regions continue to move towards online entry forms, they’ll no longer receive passport stamps, which have long held a sentimental place among travellers. There’s also a general concern about what happens in the event of a tech glitch.

“I’m sad about [the digitisation of travel] and also concerned,” said Kita Jean, a frequent traveller and member of Nomadness Travel Tribe, an online community for travellers of colour. “Passport stamps are a great way to document memories and look back at, but they’re also good for when processes and technology fails.”

As more places continue to implement digital entry systems and fees, only time will tell whether these new changes will help make crossing borders more efficient or whether travellers view them as an inefficient an unnecessary hoops to jump through.

Source: BBC.

Skyward Express flags off first Mombasa-Dar Direct Flight

In a landmark achievement for regional connectivity and development, Skyward Express has officially spearheaded the initial inaugural direct flight from Mombasa to Dar-es-Salaam, Tanzania.

The introduction of this direct flight is noted to be a great step towards enhancing bilateral relations between Kenya and Tanzania by fostering increased trade, tourism, and cultural exchange.

Speaking at Moi International Airport, Mombasa, during the launch, Mombasa Governor Abdulswammad Nassir flanked by the Chairman of the Kenya Airports Authority Caleb Kositany emphasized the importance of the new flight in reducing travel time and cost.

Previously, passengers had to connect through Nairobi before heading to Dar-es-Salaam, adding hours to their journey.

“This direct flight not only saves time but also lowers travel costs, making the route more accessible to businesses, tourists, and local travellers,” Nassir noted.

“An active airport doesn’t just benefit Mombasa; it impacts the entire region. With Dongo Kundu having been finished, it has reduced the travel time to Diani to just 30 minutes, and by the time the Mombasa- Malindi Highway is done, getting to Kilifi, Watamu, and Malindi would take even a lesser time than before the growth potential is immense,” he noted.

Nassir highlighted the broader benefits of increased air connectivity, stating that an active open skies policy could link Mombasa to over 300 cities globally. This would not only boost tourism but significantly contribute to Kenya’s GDP by attracting more international passengers.

He also urged policymakers to consider introducing tax incentives and other support mechanisms for local aviation companies to enhance their competitiveness in the global market. “A competitive aviation sector supported by favorable policies will unlock economic potential and ensure Mombasa and neighboring counties reap the full benefits of improved connectivity,” he said.

On his part, Kositany commended Skyward Express for their commitment to bridging regional gaps and lauded the partnership as a critical move towards advancing Kenya’s Vision 2030 goals.

Kositany reiterated that launching the direct flight from Mombasa to Dar-es-salam is a gateway for tourists, entrepreneurs, and everybody who wants to explore and promote the county and country as a key regional and international hub.

He further revealed plans by the Kenya Airports Authority to expand airport facilities to match the growing industry demands.

“Our air travel industry continues to grow, with more Kenyans flying. We are committed to creating a more comfortable and efficient environment by reducing congestion in our airports and enhancing overall passenger experience,” he added.

Skyward Express Chairman, Captain Mohammed Abdi, reflected on the airline’s growth journey, noting that their inaugural flight to Mombasa from Wilson Airport took place eight years ago. Since then, the airline has added two more daily flights from Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA) to Mombasa, offering both morning and evening schedules.

Abdi highlighted the strategic decision to connect through JKIA in the early days, emphasizing the importance of building capacity, acquiring larger aircraft, and positioning the airline as a competitive player.

“Our goal was to offer a superior experience, reducing flight times to Mombasa to less than an hour, a standard that sets us apart from other airlines,” he explained.

He also shared Skyward Express’s recent milestone of launching its first regional flight from Nairobi to Dar-es-Salaam last month, underscoring the airline’s vision to fly daily and seamlessly connect key destinations like Mombasa.

Captain Abdi went on to urge other airlines to build capacity to be able to compete fairly with the big airlines. He concluded by noting that the connectivity of Mombasa to Dar is the airline’s dedication to enhancing regional connectivity while meeting the growing demands of travellers.

Source: Kenya News

Kenya Tourism Board targets US market growth

NAIROBI, Kenya, Dec 10 – The Kenya Tourism Board (KTB) is leveraging pent-up travel demand in the United States to increase international tourist arrivals.

Speaking ahead of the United States Tour Operators Association (USTOA) Annual Conference in Florida, KTB CEO June Chepkemei emphasized the Board’s commitment to positioning Kenya as a top destination for American travelers.

The U.S. is Kenya’s leading tourism market, and KTB is focusing on collaborations with American tour operators to showcase the country’s diverse offerings, including adventure, cultural experiences, and beach getaways.

A survey by KTB indicates that U.S. tourists increasingly seek experiential value, aligning with Kenya’s offerings.

The strategy coincides with a rebound in the American travel market, with outbound travel rising 9.3 percent in 2023 compared to pre-pandemic levels, according to the U.S. Department of Commerce.

The USTOA conference, running from December 9–13, is expected to foster partnerships and promote Kenya’s tourism opportunities to North American operators.

Source: Capital Fm.

Kenya Airways announces new route, Nairobi to Gatwick direct flights beginning July 2025

9th December 2024, Nairobi– Starting 2nd July 2025, Kenya Airways (KQ) will begin operating direct flights to London’s Gatwick Airport from its hub at Nairobi’s Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA). Kenya Airways will now serve the United Kingdom (UK) through two entry points: London Heathrow Airport (LHR) and London Gatwick Airport (LGW) with KQ Customers being able to choose a second nonstop flight into London.

The flights to Gatwick will operate at night out of Nairobi, 3 times a week specifically on Wednesday, Friday and Sunday and will complement the existing London schedule increasing the London frequency to 10 weekly flights.

Commenting on the new route, Kenya Airways Group Managing Director and CEO said that it is part of KQ’s route expansion strategy and offers convenience for customers. He also hinted at the potential for further expansion, stating that ‘this is just the beginning of our expansion plans for the UK market ‘.

“The United Kingdom is essential and strategic for Kenya Airways and Kenya. It provides a gateway for trade, tourism, education, business, leisure travel, and diaspora connections. We are excited to add Gatwick Airport to our expansive network as it means that KQ guests now have more options in and out of the UK and a convenient schedule that suits their travel preferences.” said Mr Kilavuka.

The flight schedule will operate as indicated below:

Flight NumberFrequencyDeparture Time (local time)Arrival Time (local time)Destination
KQ 108Wednesday,23:4506:55Gatwick (LGW)
KQ 108Friday & Sunday23:4006:50Gatwick (LGW)
KQ 109Monday12:1023:05Nairobi (NBO)
KQ 109Thursday11:0021:55Nairobi (NBO)
KQ 109Saturday12:2523:20Nairobi (NBO)

Located in West Sussex, England, Gatwick Airport is situated 47.5 kilometers south of Central London, making it a convenient gateway for travelers from the Southeast and South of England. Passengers traveling from Gatwick will enjoy seamless connections to Kenya Airways’ extensive network via its hub in Nairobi, ensuring a smooth and connected travel experience. Flights are open for booking on Kenya Airways’ website www.kenya-airways.com , travel agents as well as online travel agents (OTAs).

-ENDS-

About Kenya Airways:

Kenya Airways (KQ), The Pride of Africa, is a leading African carrier on a mission to propel Africa’s prosperity by connecting its people, cultures, and markets. We fly to 44 destinations worldwide, 36 of which are in Africa,

connecting over 5 million passengers and over 70,000 Tons of cargo annually through our Hub at Nairobi’s Jomo Kenyatta International Airport.

As the sole African carrier in the SkyTeam Alliance, we open up a world of possibilities for our customers, connecting them to over 1,060 destinations in 173 countries. We take pride in offering a delightful flying experience with a caring African touch. Our exceptional African hospitality has consistently earned us global recognition including the prestigious Skytrax World Airline Awards where we were honored with the Best Airline Staff and Best Airline Cabin Crew in Africa in 2024.

For more information, visit www.kenya-airways.com or call our 24-hour Customer Services Desk at +254 20 327 4747. We are also available on Twitter: @KenyaAirways & @KQSupport, Facebook: @OfficialKenyaAirways, and Instagram: @OfficialKenyaAirways.

For media enquiries, please contact Kenya Airways Corporate Communications: Corporate.communications@kenya-airways.com

Kenya Plans Underwater Shipwreck Museum in Kilifi

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The National Museums of Kenya (NMK) is developing an underwater museum at Ras Ngomeni in Kilifi County. The museum will showcase shipwrecks along Kenya’s Indian Ocean coast, focusing on a 16th-century Portuguese vessel—Kenya’s oldest known shipwreck. Dr. Caesar Bita, head of coastal archaeology at NMK, will lead the project, which was initially envisioned twelve years ago after the discovery of the shipwreck.

Visitors will experience both above-water artefact displays and underwater tunnels providing direct access to submerged relics. The museum will also function as a research centre for the diverse marine life, including fish, turtles, and dolphins, inhabiting the shipwrecks.

Kenya’s coast has 33 documented shipwrecks: 22 in Mombasa, eight in Malindi, and three in Lamu. Guided tours with details about each wreck’s history will be provided, with underwater placards offering historical information. Some of the cargo found on these ships included ivory, cinnabar, and copper, remarkably preserved due to the conducive underwater environment.

The museum aims to establish itself as a unique tourist attraction complementing the country’s traditional safari offerings. The project’s designs were initially prepared with help from US architects in March 2012, making it the first museum of its kind in Sub-Saharan Africa, following Egypt’s underwater gallery near Sharm el-Sheikh.

Read More

Source: Construction Kenya

Proposed VAT on air travel will affect all, not just the rich

KATA officials led by Chairman Dr Joseph Kithitu and CEO Nicanor Sabula presented a petition to the National Assembly Committee of Finance and Economic Planning on behalf of members of the Kenya Association of travel agents (KATA) at the ongoing public participation forum.

The petition called for the scrapping of the proposal to introduce VAT on air ticketing services supplied by Travel Agents. The petition termed the proposals as discriminatory and one that would disadvantage Kenyan agents, lead to loss of business competitiveness, closure of businesses and job losses.

The short-term gains from VAT collection would be far outweighed by long-term declines in overall tax revenues.

A recent newspaper report on a raft of proposals by the National Treasury to among others introduce taxes targeting the aviation sector rekindled the old-aged, misguided characterization of air travel as a “luxury service” enjoyed exclusively by the rich.

This is far from the truth and is misrepresentative of Kenya’s modern economy and the realities of its travel industry.

In the proposals, the National Treasury is seeking to introduce 16% VAT on a number of air travel related services such as air ticketing services by travel agents, hiring, chattering and leasing of aircrafts, aircraft navigation systems among others.

This adjustment, Treasury argues, is a necessary step towards expanding the tax base and ensuring that a wider array of services contributes to national revenue. While the government’s decision to provide tax relief on essentials such as bread and unga is widely welcomed, the suggestion that air travel taxes are a “raid” on the wealthy overlooks the widespread use and importance of air travel across socio-economic strata in Kenya.

Air Travel is a Growing Necessity, not a Luxury

Kenya’s air travel industry has grown rapidly in recent years, reflecting the country’s expanding middle class, the growth of domestic tourism, and the rise of affordable travel options.

Domestic airlines like Jambojet, Skyward and; Safarilink have made it possible for Kenyans from diverse income levels to travel domestically, whether for business, education, family obligations, or tourism.

For instance, it’s now common to find fares from Nairobi to Mombasa or Kisumu for as low as Sh5,000, making air travel an attractive alternative to long bus journeys, particularly in terms of safety and time saved.

Moreover, in some areas where road infrastructure is still developing, air travel remains the only practical choice of travel allowing people to traverse the country with ease and efficiency.

Granted, air travel in Kenya still remains expensive for the average Kenyan- however, to assume that those flying between cities such as Nairobi, Eldoret, Kisumu, Lodwar or Wajir are exclusively wealthy overlooks the reality that many travelers are professionals, small business owners, students, and even rural residents visiting family.

Impact of Proposed Taxes on Business Travel

Taxing air ticketing services is likely to impact Kenya’s small and medium-sized businesses, which rely on affordable domestic flights to expand their reach and access opportunities.

Many entrepreneurs and workers travel within Kenya to secure contracts, attend conferences, and network, all of which support economic growth and job creation.  If air ticket prices rise due to new taxes, it could limit access for these business travelers, ultimately affecting productivity and the economy.

Given that Kenya aims to position itself as a regional economic hub, affordable travel options are crucial. For many, air travel is no longer a luxury but a cost-effective solution to meet the demands of a rapidly modernizing economy.

Balancing Revenue with Accessibility

While the government has an obligation to explore all avenues for tax revenue, it’s essential that any changes in tax policy consider the broader implications on everyday Kenyans. Air transport, just like other modes of transportation is a public service consumed by mwananchi at a slightly higher price. It is for the same reason we don’t tax matatus or bus fares or even SGR fares.

Air travel may seem an unlikely target, but for a growing number of Kenyans, it’s a part of their livelihoods. Categorizing air travel as a “rich-only” service fails to recognise the real and growing need for accessible, affordable travel options.

The Treasury’s move to offer tax relief on basic household essentials is welcomed and will greatly benefit Kenya’s lower-income households. But as Kenya’s economy evolves, so too should our perspectives on “luxury” versus “necessity.”

Air travel is today increasingly becoming a basic part of the fabric of Kenyan life, with significant benefits to local economies, small businesses, and personal well-being. Thoughtful tax policy should reflect this reality, balancing the need for revenue with the right to affordable travel for all.

As Kenya looks to grow as a competitive and inclusive economy, it’s clear that air travel is more than a service for the wealthy. It’s a bridge across communities, regions, and economic divides, and any tax policy should reflect its role as an enabler of opportunity—not as a privilege of the elite.

Source:Financial Fortune

Solid Growth in Passenger Demand Continued in October

Geneva – The International Air Transport Association (IATA) released data for October 2024 global passenger demand with the following highlights:

  • Total demand, measured in revenue passenger kilometers (RPK), was up 7.1% compared to October 2023. Total capacity, measured in available seat kilometers (ASK), was up 6.1% year-on-year. The October load factor was 83.9% (+0.8ppt compared to October 2023).
  • International demand rose 9.5% compared to October 2023. Capacity was up 8.6% year-on-year and the load factor rose to 83.5% (+0.6ppt compared to October 2023).
  • Domestic demand rose 3.5% compared to October 2023. Capacity was up 2.0% year-on-year and the load factor was 84.5% (+1.2ppt compared to October 2023).

“Continued strong and stable demand is good news, but just as important is the steady improvement in load factors. It shows what a great job the industry is doing in flying people more efficiently.

Average seat factors have risen from around 67% in the 1990’s to over 83% today. Politicians thinking of trying to tax passengers off planes to reduce emissions would do well to note this. Even if fewer people fly because taxes make it too expensive, it doesn’t automatically mean reduced emissions because the planes will still fly, just with fewer passengers. That would reverse decades hard won progress. We need to see the planes full to generate the economic and social benefits of travel with the most minimal emissions possible,” said Willie Walsh, IATA’s Director General.

Air Passenger Market in Detail

October 2024 (% year-on-year)World Share​1RPKASKPLF(%-PT)​2PLF(Level)​3
Total Market100%7.1%6.1%+0.8%83.9%
Africa2.1%9.3%5.2%+2.8%73.8%
Asia Pacific31.7%12.7%9.7%+2.2%84.1%
Europe27.1%7.9%6.5%+1.1%86.2%
Latin America5.5%7.0%7.5%-0.4%84.5%
Middle East9.4%2.5%2.7%-0.1%80.3%
North America24.2%0.3%1.6%-1.1%83.2%

1) % of industry RPKs in 2023    2) Year-on-year change in load factor    3) Load Factor Level

Regional Breakdown – International Passenger Markets

All regions showed growth for international passenger markets in October 2024 compared to October 2023. Europe had the highest load factors, and Africa showed a sharp increase, but the Americas and the Middle East suffered falls.

Asia-Pacific airlines achieved a 17.5% year-on-year increase in demand. Capacity increased 17.2% year-on-year and the load factor was 82.9% (+0.3ppt compared to October 2023).

European carriers had an 8.7% year-on-year increase in demand. Capacity increased 7.3% year-on-year, and the load factor was 85.7% (+1.1ppt compared to October 2023).

Middle Eastern carriers saw a 2.2% year-on-year increase in demand. Capacity increased 2.5% year-on-year and the load factor was 80.2% (-0.2ppt compared to October 2023).

North American carriers saw a 3.2% year-on-year increase in demand. Capacity increased 2.9% year-on-year, and the load factor was 84.2% (+0.3ppt compared to October 2023).

Latin American airlines saw a 10.9% year-on-year increase in demand. Capacity climbed 11.6% year-on-year. The load factor was 85.3% (-0.6ppt compared to October 2023).

African airlines saw a 10.4% year-on-year increase in demand. Capacity was up 5.3% year-on-year. The load factor rose to 73.2% (+3.4ppt compared to October 2023).

Domestic Passenger Markets

The US showed a surprise slight decline, while all other key domestic markets showed stable growth. Fast-growing Chinese domestic demand is being met with increased use of wide-body aircraft.

October 2024 (% year-on-year)World Share​1RPKASKPLF(%-PT)​2PLF(LEVEL)​3
Domestic39.9%3.5%2.0%+1.2%84.5%
Domestic Australia0.8%2.9%-0.5%+2.8%86.2%
Domestic Brazil1.2%9.5%7.8%+1.3%83.7%
Domestic China P.R.11.2%9.7%2.2%+5.9%86.2%
Domestic India1.8%6.1%9.6%-2.7%81.7%
Domestic Japan1.1%3.3%-0.2%+2.9%84.0%
Domestic US15.4%-1.2%0.8%-1.7%82.5%

1) % of industry RPKs in 2023    2) year-on-year change in load factor    3) Load Factor Level 

Note: the six domestic passenger markets for which broken-down data are available account for approximately 31.4% of global total RPKs and 78.8% of total domestic RPKs.

> View the October Air Passenger Market Analysis (pdf)

For more information, please contact:

Corporate Communications
Tel: +41 22 770 2967
Email: corpcomms@iata.org

Notes for Editors:

  • Statistics compiled by IATA Economics using direct airline reporting complemented by estimates, including the use of FlightRadar24 data provided under license.
  • All figures are provisional and represent total reporting at time of publication plus estimates for missing data. Historic figures are subject to revision.
  • Domestic RPKs accounted for about 41.9% of the total market in 2022. The six domestic markets in this report account for 31.3% of global RPKs.
  • Explanation of measurement terms:

– RPK: Revenue Passenger Kilometers measures actual passenger traffic

– ASK: Available Seat Kilometers measures available passenger capacity

– PLF: Passenger Load Factor is % of ASKs used.

  • IATA statistics cover international and domestic scheduled air traffic for IATA member and non-member airlines.
  • Total passenger traffic market shares by region of carriers for 2023 in terms of RPK are: Asia-Pacific 31.7%, Europe 27.1%, North America 24.2%, Middle East 9.4%, Latin America 5.5%, and Africa 2.1%.

Source: IATA

Dubai Is Known for Luxury Travel — Now it Wants to Focus on ‘Real Culture’

Dubai boasts of the world’s tallest building, the world’s largest mall, and the only “unofficial” seven-star hotel. Four decades after embracing tourism, Dubai wants to hone in on the “real” aspects of the city and its hidden gems.

Issam Kazim, CEO of Dubai Tourism, said Wednesday at the Skift Global Forum 2024 that the city will rely less on its famous landmarks and celebrity campaigns, in favor of a more authentic tourism experience.

“I think initially Dubai started off… we needed to create enough noise to get attention, we needed landmark projects, 7-star hotels, islands. It did a great job to get people into the city, but it started to make people feel Dubai was just about new buildings and high-end luxury,” said Kazim.

“We might have missed out on talking about our people. Only when we had that dialogue, did we realize these gems are standing out. If we shed light on the people, Dubai is a different proposition and gets a soul.”

“People used to say Dubai was beautiful but lacked a soul. The city now is speaking to people, we’ve seen that post-Covid. We generated ‘warm’ momentum and people were focusing on Dubai for all the right reasons.”

Authenticity Over Star Power

For years, Dubai has been known for using celebrities in large tourism campaigns. In 2022, Bollywood legend Shah Rukh Khan was featured in a promotional video for the city, while the year before Zac Effron and Jessica Alba did the same.

This may appear as nothing more than using celebrities for “star power” but Kazim says the emirate is prioritizing “authentic” celebrity partnerships.

He said: “At this point, it has changed quite a bit, we have a lot of celebrities visit Dubai, so we’re not relying on them the same way we did in the past. If celebrities can genuinely show an organic experience… we do not seek celebrities who have not been to Dubai. We work with celebrities who genuinely love Dubai and visit frequently.”

Using Real People

To show the ‘real’ Dubai, Kazim and his team are working to highlight the city’s hidden gems and real people.

“We have an arts and culture scene, celebrating the variety in the country. A lot of people knew about the skyscrapers, but not the cultural districts. These cultural neighborhoods were lesser known but they can be enjoyed at lower budgets.”

“Over the past few years, we’ve leveraged celebrities and influences to bring attention to what’s happening in Dubai. Now we’re shifting from that and using real people and real families to talk about why Dubai is home for them.”

“Breaking down barriers is key, to changing perceptions. Even though Dubai is known for luxury, we’re changing that, Dubai can offer affordable luxury.”

Source: Skift

Over 100 Ugandans in Kenya to sample Coast tourism products

In Summary

  • The Ugandans will be touring the Coast with key attraction sites in Kilifi, Kwale and  Mombasa counties.
  • They will also be sampling the culture and cuisine of the communities.

Ugandan tourism stakeholders at the Moi International Airport in Mombasa on Wednesday

A group of more than 100 Ugandan tourism stakeholders are at the Kenyan Coast to sample the region’s tourism products in bid to strengthen the tourism relationship.

The Ugandans arrived at the Moi International Airport in Mombasa on Wednesday and will be at the Coast for a week.

“We are here to showcase to our brothers and sisters what the Kenyan Coast has to offer,” Mombasa Tourism Council chairman Sam Ikwaye said at the airport.

The Ugandans will be touring the Coast with key attraction sites in Kilifi, Kwale and Mombasa counties.

They will also be sampling the culture and cuisine of the communities.

“We will then be able to sell this destination as one,” Ikwaye said.

This is part of the collaboration between Kenya and Uganda that has been forged to boost both countries’ tourism industry.

They are collaborating to sell the destinations as one big entity where visitors to the East African region can be treated to the sites and sounds of both countries as a package.

This comes after a delegation of over 70 Kenyan tourism stakeholders visited Uganda last week for Kenya-Uganda conference and to sample the product in Uganda.

“This is a continuation of the Kenya-Uganda conference that was hosted in Uganda last week. We are here to continue the cooperation and complementarity,” Ikwaye said.

Uganda Hotel Owners Association CEO Jean Byamugisha said the collaboration will boost both countries’ tourism industries and in the process create jobs for youth and enhance foreign exchange earnings.

Last week, the association hosted the Kenya Travel Trade in Uganda for 10 days where Kenyan tour operators, hotel owners, hotel keepers and other tourism industry players attended.

“Kenya is our biggest source market, so we are trying to see how we can be able to firm up the partnership, coordination and cooperation between the two countries especially in the tourism industry,” Byamugisha said.

 “We coined a phrase ‘From the Bush to the Beach’, so we want a guest who comes to East Africa to come to the Bush in Uganda to see the gorillas and then to Mombasa and go to the beach,” Byagumisha said.

“I am proud that I am Ugandan and I am in Mombasa and have not used my passport but my national ID to come here,” she said.

Ikwaye said apart from tourism stakeholders, businessmen will also be engaged during the Ugandans’ stay at the Coast to help create networks and boost their own businesses.

“We have engaged the businesspeople, the county governments and particularly key marketing agencies, including  Kenya Tourism Board, to see how we can put together packages and how we can enhance cooperation between the two countries.

Ikwaye said the visit of the Ugandans is a great boost to Mombasa because the Mombasa Tourism Council has been looking at how to diversify and sustain their business offering.

“We are looking at how to grow regional and domestic business and this partnership and cooperation between Kenya Coast and Uganda serves that particular purpose. We are hoping that the council can ride on this partnership so we can offer new experiences for visitors.”

Source: The-Star

Travelport Launches NDC Content and Servicing for Emirates on Travelport+

LANGLEY UK, June 25, 2024 –Travelport, a global technology company that powers travel bookings for hundreds of thousands of travel suppliers worldwide, and Emirates, one of the world’s largest international airlines, today announced that New Distribution Capability (NDC) content from Emirates and enhanced NDC servicing capabilities are now available in the Travelport+ platform.  

With this launch, Travelport’s agency customers will be able to easily view and compare more dynamic NDC offers and ancillaries from Emirates and create a more streamlined, personalized experience for travelers. Travelport’s complete NDC solution for Emirates also provides agents the ability to service NDC bookings, which includes modifications and cancellations.  

“Agencies using Travelport+ will now have access to better, more enriched content that is only available via the Emirates NDC channel,” saidAdnan Kazim, Deputy President and Chief Commercial Officer at Emirates. “The integration of our systems will strengthen the expansion of our reach across the global travel retail community and allow them to offer travelers more choice among our best-in-class products and services.” 

“We are leading the way in delivering Emirates’ NDC content to travel retailers and giving agents the ability to compare and book the best offers and ancillaries available from Emirates on Travelport+,” said Jason Clarke, Chief Commercial Officer, Travel Partners at Travelport. “This pivotal NDC milestone with Emirates proves Travelport is at the forefront of modern retailing with our ability to provide the best content and cutting-edge tools that agents require to create superior booking and servicing experiences for their customers.” 

Travelport’s NDC content and servicing solution for Emirates has first become available to all agency customers located in Australia, Indonesia, the United Arab Emirates, and the United Kingdom. Access to Emirates NDC solution in Travelport+ will expand to agency customers located in additional countries in the coming weeks. 

Source: Travelport