The Henley Passport Index, a global authority on passport rankings, has revealed its 2025 list of the most powerful passports worldwide.
Drawing on exclusive data from the International Air Transport Association (IATA) and extensive research, the index ranks 199 passports based on the number of destinations their holders can access without a prior visa.
While African nations like Seychelles and Mauritius perform exceptionally well, a stark contrast remains between the continent’s most and least powerful passports.
For example, war-torn nations such as Somalia and Sudan rank near the bottom, highlighting the impact of geopolitical instability on mobility.
Here’s a look at the top-performing African passports on the Index this year:
Mauritius secures second place among African countries with its 151 visa-free destinations making it a standout performer.
3. South Africa – Rank 48 (106 Visa-Free Destinations)
South Africa is ranked 48th globally. Its passport holders can access 106 destinations without a visa.
4. Botswana – Rank 57 (88 Visa-Free Destinations)
Botswana’s passport grants its holders access to 88 destinations.
5. Namibia – Rank 62 (81 Visa-Free Destinations)
Namibia ranks among the top five African countries, offering access to 81 destinations.
Other Notable Mentions:
Kenya – Rank 68 (74 Visa-Free Destinations): East Africa’s leading passport.
Ghana – Rank 74 (68 Visa-Free Destinations): Ghana maintains its reputation as a gateway to West Africa with improved access.
Nigeria – Rank 94 (46 Visa-Free Destinations): Despite challenges, Nigeria’s passport holds significance due to its strategic importance in the region.
Tourism stakeholders operating at Kenya’s Coast have said that 2024 has been a remarkable year for them.
They said despite the year having witnessed Gen Z-led protests, it has still recorded a high number of tourists flocking to various places and booking hotels, compared to previous years.
In an interview with The Eastleigh Voice, the stakeholders expressed optimism that before the end of the year, the sector will hit 100 per cent performance, owing to the huge numbers of tourists who continue to book space.
They said that compared to previous years, this year’s high tourist season has seen tremendous performance.
Among the key stakeholders in the industry interviewed by The Eastleigh Voice across the six Coast counties included hoteliers, tour guide operators, beach operators, and officials representing various tourism entities in the region.
Those interviewed acknowledged having received early bookings in their premises with more expected during the December festive season and towards January 2025.
In Lamu, for instance, there has been a high number of French tourists booking space in the various hotels in Shella and other key tourist destinations across the archipelago.
Best tourist season
Lamu Tourism Association (LTA) Vice Chairperson Fridah Njeri expressed confidence that this year’s high tourist season will be the best compared to previous years.
“There are so many international tourists, particularly from France, booking space in Shella, Lamu, Kipungani and other places. That means by December and January, we shall be having tremendous bookings in our hotels,” said Njeri.
Former Kenya Tourism Federation (KTF) chairperson Mohammed Hersi lauded hotel owners at the Coast for their zeal and determination in ensuring they offer the best in terms of services to tourists visiting their premises.
Mohammed challenged those unwilling to undertake maintenance of their hotels to be ready to miss out on guests as many prefer looking for proper services elsewhere.
He also advised hotel and travel agencies to embrace the digital space to market their services.
He, however, noted that the 2024 high tourist season has already given an early indication of doing better compared to last year.
“In 2023, the high tourist season was good. We recorded almost 2.1 million guests, though some were from the East Africa region, that’s Uganda and Tanzania. We also had tourists from Europe, Japan, and America where I believe the money is. This year, I can see the season has picked well and we expect good results at the end,” Mohammed said.
Gen Z protests
Highlighting matters of the Gen Z-led protests, Mohammed said the situation had a negative impact, particularly for hotels offering conference services.
He expressed optimism about the industry getting back to its feet now that calm has been restored across the country.
“Gen Z protests affected tourism performance, though minimally. Hotels that handle conferences and meetings experienced lots of cancellations since they knew they couldn’t handle matters of evacuation of guests and tourists if the need arose,” said Mohamed.
“But I commend the state for ensuring calmness resumes. I also congratulate hotel owners for spending money in renovating their premises, meaning they have confidence that the future is bright,” he added.
In Kwale and the general South Coast destinations, stakeholders interviewed expressed hope and confidence in the high tourist season peaking well.
Leopard Beach Resort’s General Manager Kioko Musyoki noted that currently, the tourism sector is performing at between 70 to 85 per cent as most premises were receiving bookings almost on a daily basis.
Musyoki also doubles as the chair of the Kenya Association of Hotel Keepers on the South Coast.
“We normally record about 80 per cent plus in tourist bookings once the high season begins. Currently, we’re already between 70 to 80 percent performance. My appeal is for peace to prevail throughout the season. I am confident we shall hit above the 90 per cent mark this December,” said Musyoki.
Tourists at the KPA jetty in Lamu Town. (Photo: Farhiya Hussein)
Lamu Festivals
Lamu Tourism Executive Aisha Miraj banked her hope on this year’s festivals in the county to boost the tourism sector.
The sector is currently performing at 70 per cent. Among the events lined up included the Lamu Cultural Festival which was held between November 28 and November 30.
Miraj said there had been a low number of tourists coming to Lamu, particularly between April and June, which is considered off-peak or a low tourist season.
As of June this year, the Lamu tourism industry received a total of 1,090 international tourists who visited the archipelago.
Miraj expressed confidence in the Lamu tourism sector hitting the 100 per cent mark now that the high tourist season is already ongoing.
“The Lamu festivals have always acted as key tourist attractions. We’re, however, appealing for countries with active travel advisories on Lamu to lift them. I am aware French and German tourists aren’t allowed to travel beyond Lamu and Manda Islands and this is working to our disadvantage. I believe once such advisories are lifted, Lamu will do better in terms of international guests visiting this place,” said Miraj.
The policy, set to take effect in early 2025, will make Ghana the fifth African country to open its borders to all holders of African passports thus ensuring regional integration.
Ghana is set to become the fifth African country to allow visa-free travel for all Africans, joining Rwanda, Seychelles, The Gambia, and Benin. This new policy, approved by President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo, is expected to take effect by early 2025.
This decision is part of Ghana’s broader plan to simplify travel across Africa and strengthen connections between African countries. By introducing visa-free entry for all African nationals, Ghana aims to enhance regional integration and encourage greater collaboration across the continent.
President Akufo-Addo first committed to this policy during his keynote address at the Africa Prosperity Dialogues (APD) in January 2024. Speaking under the theme, “Developing Prosperity in Africa: Produce, Add Value, and Trade,” he emphasised the need for policies that simplify movement and strengthen ties among African nations. He said:
Many of you had to acquire a visa to come to this event. We made a special arrangement for this conference, reducing the visa acquisition fee by 50%, and we were thus able to receive your visa on arrival. The government of Ghana is committed to ensuring visa-free for all Africans, for all Africans travelling into our country, and the process has begun to get the policy implemented this year.
This new visa-free policy aligns with the goals of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), which has its headquarters in Ghana’s capital, Accra. AfCFTA’s vision is to create a unified African market by promoting the free movement of people, goods, and services across the continent. Albert Muchanga, Ghana’s Commissioner for Economic Development, Trade, Tourism, Industry, and Minerals at AfCFTA, commended this decision, calling it a significant step toward achieving this vision of a single African market.
On December 18, 2024, President Akufo-Addo granted executive approval for the policy, and communicated to key ministries the following day, as reported by Asaase News.
Dubai, United Arab Emirates – Dubai Festivals and Retail Establishment (DFRE), part of the Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism (DET), has unveiled its 2025 Retail Calendar, featuring an incredible line-up of citywide events and activities to further enhance the retail landscape. The 2025 programme of festivals and events promises a continuous celebration of shopping, entertainment, and cultural experiences that will delight all interests, and visitors and residents of all backgrounds.
Aligning with the ambitious goals of the Dubai Economic Agenda, D33, to further consolidate Dubai’s position as a leading global city for business and leisure, and make it the best city to visit, live and work in, the 2025 Retail Calendar programme builds on this vision with 18 unique events. Among them will be: the iconic Dubai Shopping Festival (DSF), the world’s longest-running retail festival; Dubai Summer Surprises (DSS), a great time to visit Dubai providing the ultimate in summer fun with citywide offers; Ramadan in Dubai, a celebration of community and the spirit of togetherness, offering a seasonal backdrop of unique culinary experiences, retail offerings, and events; and Eid in Dubai, an important date in the Islamic calendar and celebrated by Muslims all over the world, with families customarily exchanging gifts and donating to the less fortunate during this time. Each of these events is specifically curated to cater to different preferences with personalised experiences for millions of residents and tourists around the world.
Ahmed Al Khaja, CEO of Dubai Festivals and Retail Establishment (DFRE), said: “Driven by the visionary leadership of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, to elevate the city’s position as a global events hub, the 2025 Retail Calendar is structured around a full year of carefully selected seasonal festivals and campaigns. In addition to catering to the interests of our citizens and residents, and reflecting the diverse population of Dubai, the calendar is aligned with the preferences of business travellers and leisure tourists. By enabling Dubai to make the most of the anticipated increase in visitor footfall over the coming year, this approach not only supports the growth of local businesses through essential partnerships with our key stakeholders, but also reinforces Dubai’s appeal as a premier shopping, tourism and entertainment destination, contributing to advancing the goals of the D33 Agenda.”
Returning for its fourth edition, the Dubai Esports and Games Festival (DEF) will take place from 25 April to 11 May 2025. With highlights such as the GameExpo, GameExpo Summit, Dubai Cosplay Championship, and Play Beyond, DEF further reinforces Dubai’s position as a global gaming hub, offering unparalleled gaming experiences, exciting esports tournaments, cutting-edge industry insights, and family fun events. The event features numerous citywide tournaments and activities, including education challenges, with engaging experiences allowing attendees to immerse themselves in various aspects of gaming and learning.
Dubai Fashion Season, a key pillar of the Retail Calendar, will engage fashion enthusiasts year-round. The Spring/Summer collection will be showcased in the first half of 2025, while the Fall/Winter collection will be showcased in the second half, highlighting Dubai’s position as a dynamic fashion hub and the No.1 city of global brands.
With participation from more than 1,000 brands and 4,000 outlets annually, the calendar is the first of its kind, aligning with industry needs and setting the foundation for the region’s retail approach. The calendar is also tailored to appeal to a diverse range of shoppers, providing targeted promotions and personalised shopping experiences that will contribute towards driving footfall and sales.
DUBAI RETAIL CALENDAR 2025
Dubai Shopping Festival – Date: 6 December 2024 – 12 January 2025 – About: The 30th edition of DSF is showcasing the very best of shopping, family-oriented events and entertainment that the city has to offer during a wonderful winter season, transforming Dubai into a hub of endless excitement and unforgettable adventures. The eagerly anticipated DSF season has kicked off with a stellar line-up of live music, enchanting experiences and extraordinary entertainment. The celebrations continue with only-in-Dubai citywide experiences and exciting events for everyone. For the latest news and announcements from Dubai Shopping Festival, visit www.visitdubai.com/whats-on/dsf and follow in real-time on social media @Dubaifestivals.
Chinese New Year – Date: 24 January 2025 – 2 February 2025 –About: Grand festivities across Dubai will mark Chinese New Year, with an extensive programme of live entertainment events and exciting offers. Spectacular fireworks, cultural performances, exclusive culinary offerings, and shopping promotions are all part of the annual line-up.
DSF Final Sale – About: Shoppers will have one last chance to snap up their favourite buys during DSF, with stores and malls around the city gearing up for a final weekend of unbeatable deals. The DSF Final Sale will feature reductions of 25% to 90% at more than 3,000 outlets across Dubai, giving savvy shoppers the ultimate opportunity to snap up the season’s last available items at a bargain. The mega weekend of shopping is also the last chance for mall visitors to enter citywide shopping promotions and raffle draws to win big prizes and take home huge rewards.
Dubai Fashion Season – Date: Q1 and Q2 2025 (Spring/Summer Collection Launch) Q3 and Q4 2025 (Fall/Winter Collection Launch) – About: Dubai Fashion Season positions Dubai as a destination that offers the most up-to-date shopping trends. Consumers have the opportunity to be the first ones in the region to own looks that are fresh ‘off the runway’ for spring and summer, including at some of the city’s world-class malls.
Ramadan and Eid in Dubai – Date: 28 February 2025 – 6 April 2025 – About: Inspired by the spirit and values of the Holy Month of Ramadan, this cultural initiative encourages local community and visitor participation in the month of reflection and self-discipline, through various activities based on Islamic values, heritage and tradition. Ramadan in Dubai has become an opportunity to promote cross-cultural understanding and offer non-Muslim residents and visitors the opportunity to learn more about the Islamic and Emirati ways of life, at a time when the city comes alive with community events, light art installations, night markets, a vast selection of dining including special menus at Ramadan tents, and incredible retail offers including wonderful gifting ranges for the season. The city remains fully open to welcome everyone across every experience in Dubai, with an added season of festivity that makes the city sparkle. – Marking the end of Ramadan, the city unites with a sense of generosity and sharing to celebrate Eid Al Fitr. Bright lights and decorations dazzle at every corner, while families and friends come together over delicious feasts. Shop for special sales, book unbeatable staycation packages and experience all the fun of this holiday.
The Great Online Sale – About: Shoppers should stay tuned for the announcement of a three-day exclusive online shopping event. This highly anticipated sale will feature unbeatable markdowns ranging from 30% to 95% on everything from clothing and luxury beauty products to electronics and more. Keep an eye out for the launch date to make the most of these incredible deals.
Dubai Esports and Games Festival – Date: 25 April 2025 – 11 May 2025 – About: Enhancing Dubai’s position as a global gaming hub, the Esports and Games Festival features 17 days of action-packed events and activities across the city. Visitors can enjoy gaming experiences, exciting esports tournaments, and cutting-edge industry insights. Exciting education initiatives will kick off in schools starting January 2025, followed by special education days at GameExpo on 7 and 8 May 2025. Dubai’s biggest B2B gaming event, the GameExpo Summit, will take place on 7 and 8 May 2025, followed by the GameExpo event from 9 to 11 May at the Dubai World Trade Centre in Zabeel halls 2 and 3.
3-Day Super Sale (3DSS) – Date: Edition 1: May 2025; Edition 2: November 2025 – About: Dubai is committed to maintaining its prominent global standing as a premier shopping destination, and one of the initiatives that reinforces this goal is the 3-Day Super Sale. Each edition is held exclusively over one weekend, and is designed to attract shopping enthusiasts and boost tourism by offering reductions ranging from 25% to 90% on a wide range of items, including clothing, shoes, accessories, electronics, furniture, homeware, and even groceries.
Eid in Dubai (Eid Al Adha) – Date: 2 – 8 June 2025 – About: Eid Al Adha in Dubai is a special time for togetherness, celebration, and the joy of giving. From family-friendly festivities to fantastic deals and offers that capture the spirit of the holiday, Dubai comes alive during Eid. The city offers incredible markdowns at malls, delicious meal deals across restaurants, and dazzling live entertainment, including fireworks and concerts that bring people together. Both residents and visitors can immerse themselves in the city’s rich culture and traditions, making Eid Al Adha a time to connect, share, and embrace traditions.
Dubai Summer Surprises – Date: 27 June 2025 – 31 August 2025 – About: Discover thousands of offers and fun things to do with Dubai Summer Surprises (DSS). Residents and visitors to the city can expect to find world-class shopping, incredible offers, amazing entertainment and dining, and new and exciting activities throughout the city. Summer is the best time for value in Dubai, with thousands of offers, and surprises that will delight, thrill and excite visitors of all ages. In a city built for all seasons, there is something for everyone to enjoy.
Back To School – Date: 4 – 28 August 2025 – About: Back to School is an exciting time of year, when parents can share in their children’s enthusiasm for updating school looks and accessories for the new school year. This key shopping period positions Dubai as a great place to do back-to-school shopping, as the city’s retailers offer attractive shopping promotions, especially for the season, and also encourage parents to spend time with their children while teaching them smart shopping habits.
DSS Final Sale – Date: August 2025 – About: The highly-anticipated DSS Final Sale features further reductions and incredible savings of up to 90% across several leading lifestyle, beauty, electronics and fashion brands across Dubai.
Dubai Home Festival – Date: 3 – 16 October 2025 – About: This festival provides fantastic savings on a range of home furnishing products, appealing to everyone looking to furnish their homes or upgrade their décor. The homewares segment will be activated through a series of special promotions at home stores across the city. Previous editions have even offered chances to win everything from incredible home make-overs to winning an apartment.
Festival of Lights in Dubai (Diwali) – Date: 17 – 26 October 2025 – About: The Festival of Lights is a time for reflection, family, and spreading positivity. The festival is a period for gift-giving, with many of Dubai’s top retailers offering exciting shopping promotions on gold and jewellery, bridal wear, fashion accessories, and home décor. The shopping malls and entertainment destinations put on a series of festive-themed events and activities that light up the city. It’s also a wonderful time to visit Dubai, especially for those on stopovers or looking to experience the city’s vibrant culture and rich gastronomy.
Dubai Fitness Challenge – Date: 1 – 30 November 2025 – About: The Dubai Fitness Challenge is a citywide movement promoting a healthier, more active lifestyle for all. Friends, families, visitors, colleagues, and communities commit themselves to 30 minutes of exercise for 30 consecutive days. It features an action-packed public engagement programme aimed at all ages and fitness levels, including fitness events, classes, and sporting activities, plus exciting deals and promotions across a wide range of retail, sports, and fitness providers, and healthy F&B concepts. Dubai Fitness Challenge’s flagship events include Dubai Run, Dubai Ride and Dubai Stand Up Paddle, all providing participants with unique Dubai fitness experiences in iconic locations.
Eid Al Etihad Celebrations (UAE National Day) – Date: 1 – 3 December 2025 – About: A tribute to the formation of the UAE, its unity and continued growth, the Eid Al Etihad celebrations consist of three days of festivities, including special retail promotions, fireworks displays, and activations all over Dubai, to honour the nation and its people.
Visit @DubaiFestivals on social media channels for more information.
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About Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism (DET) With the ultimate vision of making Dubai the world’s leading commercial centre, investment hub and tourism destination, Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism (DET) is mandated to support the Government in positioning the emirate as a major hub for global economy and tourism, and in boosting the city’s economic and tourism competitiveness indicators, in line with the goals of the Dubai Economic Agenda, D33, which aims to double the size of the emirate’s economy and consolidate its position among the top three global cities over the next decade.
Under this remit, DET is driving efforts to further enhance Dubai’s diversified, innovative service-based economy to attract top global talent, deliver a world-class business environment and accelerate productivity growth. Additionally, DET is supporting Dubai’s vision to become the world’s best city to visit, live and work in by promoting its diverse destination proposition, unique lifestyle and outstanding quality of life, overall.
DET is the principal authority for planning, supervising, developing and marketing Dubai’s business and tourism sectors. It is also responsible for licensing and classifying all types of businesses, including hotels, tour operators and travel agents. DET’s portfolio includes Dubai Economic Development Corporation (DEDC), Dubai Business Registration and Licensing Corporation (DBLC), Dubai Corporation for Consumer Protection and Fair Trade (DCCPFT), Dubai SME, Dubai Corporation for Tourism and Commerce Marketing (DCTCM), Dubai Festivals and Retail Establishment (DFRE) and Dubai College of Tourism (DCT).
About Dubai Festivals and Retail Establishment (DFRE) Dubai Festivals and Retail Establishment (DFRE), an agency of Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism (DET), is responsible for developing Dubai’s retail and festival sectors and supporting the city’s positioning as a world-class tourism destination with year-round family entertainment, shopping, and events.
Zambia has taken a monumental step in Southern African tourism by announcing the waiver of visa requirements for nationals of 53 additional countries. Starting January 1, 2024, this initiative builds upon the country’s successful 2022 policy that removed visa requirements for key tourism markets. With this development, Zambia solidifies its reputation as a regional leader in progressive tourism policies.
Expanding Visa-Free Access
The new visa policy, formalized through Statutory Instrument No. 78 of 2024, expands the list of visa-exempt countries to 167. This move reflects the Zambian government’s commitment to fostering international tourism and aligning with global trends for increased mobility.
President Hakainde Hichilema’s administration supports this policy with advanced border security measures, including a new passenger information system and the deployment of over 900 additional immigration staff. Furthermore, new immigration control points are being established nationwide to manage the anticipated rise in visitor numbers effectively.
Balancing Openness with Security
Zambia’s approach blends open-border policies with enhanced security, setting a standard for sustainable tourism growth. This policy shift aligns with the African Union’s vision for increased mobility across the continent and the broader objectives of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA).
Tourism leaders like Jillian Blackbeard, CEO of Africa’s Eden, commend Zambia’s efforts. Blackbeard noted that the country’s progressive stance demonstrates a deep understanding of the tourism sector’s needs. She emphasized that Zambia’s successful 2022 visa waiver program had already proven the transformative power of such policies in boosting tourism accessibility.
Regional Developments: South Africa Follows Suit
Zambia’s strides in visa liberalization have influenced neighboring countries, with South Africa introducing its own measures to attract tourists from key markets like China and India. Scheduled to launch in January 2025, South Africa’s Trusted Tour Operator Scheme (TTOS) will streamline visa processes by allowing vetted tour operators to expedite visa applications for large tour groups.
TTOS aims to address challenges such as processing delays and language barriers, which have previously deterred tourists from these growing markets. By reducing red tape, South Africa hopes to capitalize on the potential of these key tourism markets, further enhancing its regional competitiveness.
Contrasting Policies in the Region
While Zambia and South Africa are advancing in visa liberalization, Namibia is moving in the opposite direction. Namibia recently announced new visa requirements for 31 countries, including major tourism markets, effective April 1, 2025. The decision has raised concerns among tourism experts, as it coincides with Namibia’s efforts to boost international air access through its “Air Connect Namibia” initiative.
David Frost, CEO of SATSA, the voice of inbound tourism in South Africa, expressed concerns about Namibia’s decision. He pointed out that introducing visa fees of N$1,600 (approximately US$88) for non-African Union visitors could negate the benefits of enhanced air connectivity. Frost contrasted Namibia’s policy with Zambia’s open-door approach, which he described as a clear example of how visa liberalization can drive tourism growth.
Economic and Tourism Impacts
Zambia’s progressive visa policy is expected to generate significant benefits for its tourism industry and economy:
Increased Visitor Numbers: The expanded visa-free access will attract travelers from a broader range of countries, boosting tourism revenue.
Regional Leadership: Zambia positions itself as a top choice for tourists exploring Southern Africa, offering ease of entry and rich cultural and natural attractions.
Investment and Collaboration: The policy aligns with the African Union’s goals, fostering regional cooperation and economic integration.
Meanwhile, Namibia’s restrictive policies may deter international visitors, undermining efforts to enhance its tourism infrastructure.
Global Implications for Travelers
For international travelers, Zambia’s visa liberalization simplifies travel planning and reduces costs, making it an attractive destination for adventure and cultural tourism. The policy sets an example for other nations seeking to balance openness and security while leveraging tourism for economic growth.
Conversely, Namibia’s stricter visa rules highlight the importance of aligning policies with broader tourism strategies. The disparity in approaches among Southern African nations underscores the need for cohesive regional frameworks to attract and retain global travelers.
Leading the Way in Southern Africa
Zambia’s continued efforts to liberalize its visa policies reaffirm its role as a leader in Southern African tourism. By adopting a balanced approach that enhances accessibility while maintaining border integrity, the country sets a benchmark for sustainable tourism development.
South Africa’s initiatives, such as the TTOS, further strengthen the region’s appeal, demonstrating how progressive policies can drive growth and foster regional cooperation. Together, these efforts position Southern Africa as a hub for international tourism, offering diverse experiences and welcoming policies for global travelers.
Looking Ahead
As Zambia implements its expanded visa policy, its success will likely influence other nations to reconsider their tourism strategies. By prioritizing openness and security, Zambia provides a roadmap for sustainable tourism growth in Africa and beyond. The contrasting approaches of Zambia, South Africa, and Namibia highlight the varying impacts of visa policies on tourism, offering valuable insights for global travel and tourism stakeholders.
Dubai, United Arab Emirates: The Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism (DET) has signed a strategic memorandum of understanding (MoU) with IHG Hotels & Resorts, one of the world’s leading hotel companies, to further enhance the destination’s offerings and visitor experience. The agreement encompasses joint marketing initiatives, training programmes for hospitality professionals, and the creation of new tourism experiences.
The MoU was signed by His Excellency Issam Kazim, CEO of Dubai Corporation for Tourism and Commerce Marketing (DCTCM), part of DET, and Haitham Mattar, Managing Director – India, Middle East and Africa, IHG Hotels & Resorts. It highlights DET’s ongoing commitment to working with regional and global hospitality brands to foster innovation and industry excellence, and is aligned with the ambitious goals of the Dubai Economic Agenda, D33, to further consolidate Dubai’s position as a leading global city for business and leisure.
Establishing a framework for further collaboration and alignment between the two entities, the agreement will see DET and IHG Hotels & Resorts work together on marketing and promotional campaigns, while the hotel group will also actively highlight Dubai as a premier tourist destination through its own marketing channels and social media platforms. In addition, the two entities will collaborate to create and enhance tourism products that showcase Dubai’s unique attractions, including cultural heritage tours and seasonal offers, which will be integrated into special packages that cater to different markets.
Through the MoU, employees at IHG Hotels & Resorts will be able to participate in training courses, offered by DET’s Dubai College of Tourism, and hotel staff will also have access to relevant resources and experts. These encompass specialised training sessions, workshops, and certification programmes, designed to equip employees with the latest industry knowledge and best practices. Another major focus is the integration of Dubai tourism experiences into the hotel group’s global IHG One Rewards loyalty programme with more than 130 million members, to incentivise repeat visits and enhance guest engagement.
His Excellency Issam Kazim, CEO of the Dubai Corporation for Tourism and Commerce Marketing (DCTCM), said: “Inspired by our city’s leadership and their focus on leveraging partnerships across the public and private sectors, this strategic collaboration with IHG Hotels & Resorts is an important step in achieving the goals of the D33 Agenda and will keep Dubai top-of-mind globally. It is a testament to the pivotal role of our stakeholders in driving sustainable growth and innovation in Dubai’s tourism sector, and will showcase the city to new audiences across international markets. As we continue to collaborate, we will introduce new experiences that attract a diverse range of travellers and enhance the city’s appeal as a world-class destination, enabling Dubai to further position itself as the best city to visit, live, and work in.”
Haitham Mattar, Managing Director – India, Middle East and Africa, IHG Hotels & Resorts, said: “Testament to our commitment to support the growth of the tourism and hospitality sector in Dubai, we are delighted to partner with the Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism through this strategic MoU. At IHG Hotels & Resorts we are committed to delivering exceptional experiences for our guests at exciting destinations, and this collaboration will allow us to showcase Dubai’s unique offerings even more widely and effectively. By leveraging our global and local reach through our world class loyalty programme, IHG One Rewards as well as impactful marketing and promotional campaigns, as we aim to promote Dubai as an inviting destination while enhancing the visitor experience, in line with our dedication to excellence in hospitality.”
In the Middle East, IHG Hotels & Resorts currently operates 117 hotels across nine brands, including InterContinental, Vignette Collection, Crowne Plaza, Holiday Inn, Holiday Inn Express, Staybridge Suites, Hotel Indigo, voco and Six Senses. The company has 27 properties in its Dubai portfolio, and new openings in the pipeline include Ciel, Vignette Collection in Dubai Marina, which is set to be the tallest all-hotel tower in the world when it opens in 2025, and the InterContinental Resort Portofino, The Heart of Europe, on The World Islands, which will be the InterContinental brand’s first resort property in Dubai, opening in early 2026.
Through strategic alliances, innovative ventures, and a steadfast commitment to excellence, Dubai continues to attract millions of visitors, bolstering the city’s dynamic economy. Following a landmark 17.15 million international overnight visitors in 2023, the growth of Dubai’s tourism sector has continued into 2024. Dubai welcomed 14.96 million international visitors from January to October 2024, an increase of 8% compared to the same period in 2023 – a record-breaking year for tourism in Dubai.
In the first ten months of 2024, Dubai’s hotel sector also continued to perform well across all hospitality metrics. Average occupancy stood at an impressive 77% from January to October, with Dubai’s hotel inventory consisting of 152,532 rooms across 827 establishments at the end of the period.
For more information about Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism (DET) and IHG Hotels & Resorts, please visit: dubaidet.gov.ae and ihg.com
About Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism (DET)
With the ultimate vision of making Dubai the world’s leading commercial centre, investment hub and tourism destination, Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism (DET) is mandated to support the Government in positioning the emirate as a major hub for global economy and tourism, and in boosting the city’s economic and tourism competitiveness indicators, in line with the goals of the Dubai Economic Agenda, D33, which aims to double the size of the emirate’s economy and consolidate its position among the top three global cities over the next decade.
Under this remit, DET is driving efforts to further enhance Dubai’s diversified, innovative service-based economy to attract top global talent, deliver a world-class business environment and accelerate productivity growth. Additionally, DET is supporting Dubai’s vision to become the world’s best city to visit, live and work in by promoting its diverse destination proposition, unique lifestyle and outstanding quality of life, overall.
DET is the principal authority for planning, supervising, developing and marketing Dubai’s business and tourism sectors. It is also responsible for licensing and classifying all types of businesses, including hotels, tour operators and travel agents. DET’s portfolio includes Dubai Economic Development Corporation (DEDC), Dubai Business Registration and Licensing Corporation (DBLC), Dubai Corporation for Consumer Protection and Fair Trade (DCCPFT), Dubai SME, Dubai Corporation for Tourism and Commerce Marketing (DCTCM), Dubai Festivals and Retail Establishment (DFRE) and Dubai College of Tourism (DCT).
About IHG Hotels & Resorts
IHG Hotels & Resorts is a global hospitality company, with a purpose to provide True Hospitality for Good.
With a family of 19 hotel brands and IHG One Rewards, one of the world’s largest hotel loyalty programmes, IHG has more than 6,400 open hotels in over 100 countries, and a development pipeline of over 2,200 properties.
Premium: voco hotels, HUALUXE Hotels & Resorts, Crowne Plaza Hotels & Resorts, EVEN Hotels
Essentials: Holiday Inn Express, Holiday Inn Hotels & Resorts, Garner hotels, avid hotels
Suites: Atwell Suites, Staybridge Suites, Holiday Inn Club Vacations, Candlewood Suites
Exclusive Partners: Iberostar Beachfront Resorts
InterContinental Hotels Group PLC is the Group’s holding company and is incorporated and registered in England and Wales. Approximately 375,000 people work across IHG’s hotels and corporate offices globally.
Visit us online for more about our hotels and reservations and IHG One Rewards. To download the new IHG One Rewards app, visit the Apple App or Google Play stores.
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.”
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.
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.
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.
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.”
After two years talking and discussing, Uganda’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the country’s Consulate in Mombasa have this year decided to give their Kenyan counterparts, real life experience of what The Pearl of Africa offers.
“At the beginning of the partnership with Kenya Coast tourism stakeholders, we observed that very few of them, and Kenyans generally, knew about Uganda’s tourism products. For mountain gorillas, many of them confessed that they used to sell Rwanda. This is despite the fact that Kenya is the number one source market for tourists to Uganda,” a Ugandan official said.
The real life experience has already started, but officially, November 20 will be the historic date when Uganda for the first time hosts the Uganda- Kenya Coast Tourism Conference at Speke Resort Munyonyo. The first two conferences were held in Kenya – in November 2022 in Mombasa and the second one in November 2023 in Diani, Kwale County.
The third conference will be held on 20th– 21st November 2024 at Speke Resort Munyonyo, under the theme “The Uganda- Kenya Coast partnership: Promoting job creation, inclusivity and sustainability”.
The Conference will be attended by over 500 public and private tourism stakeholders from Uganda, Kenya and beyond who will work out a strategy for joint promotion of tourism between Uganda and Kenya Coast.
The conference will equip the key tourism players from Uganda and the Kenya coastal region with first-hand experiences of the key tourism attractions so that they are in better position to market these attractions.
Another key objective will be to promote regional tourism, and popularize the Entebbe – Mombasa route operated by the Uganda Airlines. Previously, the only available air connection to Uganda from the Kenya Coast was by Kenya Airways, through Nairobi.
Ahead of the Conference, seventy (70) tourism stakeholders from Kenya have started a familiarization trip to Uganda from 8th – 18th November 2024 where they will visit Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, Kibale National Park, Queen Elizabeth National Park, Semliki Hot Springs, Source of the Nile and Namugongo Martyrs Museum A golf tournament between Uganda and Kenya will be held on 9th November 2024 at Kampala Golf Club.
Tourists at the KPA jetty in Lamu Town. (Photo: Farhiya Hussein)
