With 2025 approaching the forefront of global tourism, particularly leisure travel, the focus seems to be on Dubai and Riyadh. Both of these cities are undergoing an infrastructural makeover along with the construction of new and modern leisure attractions to accommodate the rising number of tourists. Riyadh is in the regime of catching up due to its vast reforms and investments, while tourism and luxury travel in Dubai is long established.

This exciting development is not just about high-end hotels and impressive skyscrapers; it is about a shift in culture, business, and hospitality. Dubai and Riyadh tourism are becoming more dynamic, offering experiences that are both innovative and enticing for travelers worldwide.

Why Dubai Is Dominating the Global Travel Scene

With 2025 approaching the forefront of global tourism, particularly leisure travel, the focus seems to be on Dubai and Riyadh. Both of these cities are undergoing an infrastructural makeover along with the construction of new and modern leisure attractions to accommodate the rising number of tourists. Riyadh is in the regime of catching up due to its vast reforms and investments, while tourism and luxury travel in Dubai is long established.

The government of Dubai has strategically places major tourism infrastructure like Dubai International Financial Centre and Dubai Media City. Other businesses and creative industries have also set up offices in these areas which, along with new global attractions like Dubai Opera, Aqua Fun Park, and Dubai Safari Park, makes Dubai a must visit place for corporates and entrepreneurs looking to blend business and leisure.

The Dubai tourism policies have also evolved, with initiatives encouraging global partnerships and enhancing the visitor experience. The city’s commitment to sustainability and smart technologies ensures that its future in tourism remains promising and appealing to the growing eco-conscious traveler.

Riyadh: The New Rising Star of Middle Eastern Tourism

While Dubai’s evolution has been impressive, Riyadh is now catching up at an astonishing rate. Under Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030, the capital city of Riyadh is being transformed into a vibrant global hub for business, tourism, and leisure. Vision 2030 has reshaped the city’s tourism and hospitality industry, focusing on the development of cultural landmarks, luxury resorts, and entertainment options that can rival cities like Dubai.

Riyadh has made leaps towards attracting international tourists. By 2025, Riyadh’s tourism infrastructure includes luxury hotels and unparalleled services of Four Seasons Hotel Riyadh at Kingdom Center and Mandarin Oriental Riyadh. Aside from the existing high-end hotels, modern cultural museums, art exhibitions, and even theme parks are under consideration which will augment demand and cater towards leisure tourism.

Saudi Arabia’s recent decision to lift alcohol restrictions in designated areas and host major sporting events signals its intentional pivot toward becoming a more tourism-friendly country. This shift, paired with large-scale investments in tourism infrastructure, makes Riyadh one of the most exciting places for tourists in the coming years.

The Competitive Edge: How Dubai and Riyadh Are Competing in Tourism

The rivalry between Dubai and Riyadh is heating up. Both cities are keen to dominate the Middle Eastern tourism market, and this competition is fueling rapid advancements in infrastructure and tourism policies. By 2025, Dubai was already the destination of choice for many corporates and leisure tourists. However, Saudi Arabia has introduced several new policies aimed at increasing the number of regional hubs in Riyadh.

The change in Saudi Arabia is one of the major economics Saudi Arabia. Riyadh isn’t only erecting new lavish hotels. Riyadh is setting up a new complete system for businesses, events, and recreational activities. In response, Dubai eased its business laws and started granting a number of incentives for foreign companies to establish regional offices there. This rivalry of industrial supremacy is for sure going to add a new layer in the already Dubai and Riyadh fueled innovation in tourism and increasing traveler’s opportunities in 2025.

The Future of Travel: Why You Should Visit Dubai and Riyadh in 2025

As the cities of Dubai and Riyadh strive to diversify and innovate, they are becoming more appealing to travelers. Dubai is a luxury travel destination, and with the new additions of mid-scale and affordable options, it is now accessible to all. Riyadh is emerging as the prime location which serves a dual purpose of business and leisure travel. With its strategic investments and rapid pace of development, it is going to be a tourist hotspot in the coming years.

Both cities now have sophisticated tourism infrastructures, offering modern transportation systems, attractive cultural events, and a growing number of entertainment options for travelers. Whether you’re visiting Dubai’s iconic malls or exploring Riyadh’s cultural renaissance, these two cities will continue to define the future of Middle Eastern tourism.

Key Takeaways for Travelers

• Dubai and Riyadh are poised to dominate the global tourism landscape in 2025 with new attractions, policies, and experiences.
• Dubai’s tourism scene is expanding beyond luxury to include mid-scale options and sustainable initiatives.
• Riyadh’s rapid transformation under Vision 2030 is making it a competitive alternative to Dubai for both business and leisure.
• As both cities compete for tourism dominance, 2025 will be a pivotal year for travelers looking for unique experiences in the Middle East.

 

Conclusion: Why 2025 Is the Year to Visit Dubai and Riyadh

With their ever-growing appeal to leisure travelers, Riyadh and Dubai are poised to be the ultimate destinations by 2025. Both cities are sure to stay at the top of travelers’ lists for years to come. This is thanks to their booming infrastructures, fuelled by а sustainable practices, new tourism experiences, and visionary policy investments.

Source; Travelandtourworld.com

Kenya Airways is significantly enhancing its flight capacity through a two-pronged strategy: restoring grounded Boeing 787 Dreamliners and acquiring new narrow-body aircraft. This move promises to bolster the airline’s network and improve connectivity across Africa, creating new opportunities for travel agents.

Three Dreamliners, grounded since late 2024 due to maintenance delays, are being progressively returned to service. The first aircraft resumed operations on July 22, 2025, with the remaining two scheduled for September and December 2025. This restoration will significantly boost long-haul capacity, enabling Kenya Airways to better serve key international routes.

In addition to the Dreamliner restoration, Kenya Airways plans to lease three narrow-body aircraft in the fourth quarter of 2025. These additions will primarily serve regional and domestic routes, increasing seat capacity and expanding cargo capabilities. This investment reflects Kenya Airways’ response to rising travel demand and its commitment to modernizing its fleet.

The combined effect of these initiatives will strengthen Kenya Airways’ position as a leading African carrier. The restored Dreamliners will enhance long-haul connectivity, while the new narrow-body aircraft will improve regional and domestic services. This expanded network offers travel agents a wider range of flight options to promote, catering to both international and regional travelers.

The move also has broader implications for African air travel. Increased capacity and improved connectivity can stimulate tourism, facilitate business travel, and promote economic growth across the continent. Kenya Airways’ strategic investments contribute to a more robust and interconnected African aviation landscape, benefiting both travelers and the travel trade.

Kenya Airways’ fleet renewal program is part of a larger turnaround strategy. The airline has recently returned to profitability after years of losses and is actively pursuing recapitalization to strengthen its financial position. These positive developments signal a renewed focus on growth and a commitment to providing reliable and efficient air travel services.

For African travel agents, Kenya Airways’ enhanced capacity presents exciting opportunities. The expanded network and modernized fleet provide a wider range of travel options to offer clients, including seamless connections to international destinations and improved access to regional and domestic routes. This enhanced connectivity can boost sales and strengthen customer relationships.

Kenya Airways’ commitment to fleet renewal and operational efficiency reinforces its dedication to serving the African travel market. By investing in modern aircraft and expanding its network, the airline is creating a more seamless and convenient travel experience for passengers, while also providing valuable opportunities for travel agents to grow their businesses.

Source; Travelnews.africa

The announcement marks the latest restriction imposed by the Trump administration on travellers from Africa.

The United States has announced a pause on all routine visa applications for citizens of Zimbabwe.

The State Department said in a statement on Thursday that the US embassy in Zimbabwe would pause all routine visa services starting from Friday “while we address concerns with the Government of Zimbabwe”.

The embassy described the measure as temporary and part of the Trump administration’s efforts to “prevent visa overstay and misuse”.

Most diplomatic and official visas would be exempt from the pause, the US said.

The US has enforced new travel restrictions on citizens from several African countries under President Donald Trump’s broader immigration enforcement policies.

In June, the US put in place travel bans on citizens from 12 countries, seven of them in Africa.

It increased restrictions on seven other nations, three of them African.

The US has also demanded that 36 countries, the majority of them in Africa, improve their vetting of travellers or face a ban on their citizens visiting the United States.

Zimbabwe, Malawi and Zambia were all on that list of 36 countries asked to improve their citizens’ travel documentation and take steps to address the status of their nationals who are in the US illegally.

“The Trump Administration is protecting our nation and our citizens by upholding the highest standards of national security and public safety through our visa process,” the US State Department said on Thursday.

The announcement came days after the US unveiled a pilot project requiring citizens of two other African countries, Malawi and Zambia, to pay a bond of up to $15,000 for tourist or business visas.

The bond will be forfeited if the applicant stays in the US after their visa expires.

The new bond policy announced on Tuesday requires Malawians and Zambians to pay bonds of $5,000, $10,000 or $15,000 as part of their application for a tourist or business visa to the US.

Under the programme, citizens of those countries must also arrive and depart at one of three airports: Boston’s Logan International Airport, New York’s John F Kennedy International Airport or Dulles International Airport near Washington, DC.

The visa bond pilot programme will start on August 20, the State Department said.

Source; Aljazeera.com

The global aviation scene is changing fast, and the biggest airlines are using their size to lead long-haul travel. This wave of consolidation brings African aviation professionals new challenges and clear openings. Majors like United, Emirates, and Qatar are carrying more of the world’s passengers, and the latest International Air Transport Association (IATA) stats show these mega-carriers topping almost every performance measure. Smaller regional airlines are feeling the squeeze, but the same tide can lift the African sector. By pursuing smart alliances, broadening route maps, and fine-tuning operations, African carriers can carve out their share of the growing global travel pie.

In 2024 United Airlines claimed the title of largest airline in the world by revenue passenger kilometers (RPK), edging out American Airlines. Delta Air Lines maintains a strong grip on North American flying. Together, these moves underscore the power of big airlines that combine broad networks with lean operations, steadily bulking up their share of the market.

Global Market Consolidation: Impact on African Airlines

Big airline groups from the U.S., China, and the Middle East enjoy a clear edge. They can split costs among millions of passengers, making tickets cheaper and routes more attractive. Airlines like Emirates and Qatar Airways thrive by sitting at the crossroads of Europe, Asia, and Africa, letting them lure travelers with fast connections and lavish services.

African airlines have to fight a lopsided game. Ethiopian Airlines, the continent’s biggest, flies about 15 million passengers a year. Delta, the world’s largest, moves more than 200 million on its own. The difference hurts. Ethiopian can’t match the global reach of the giants on long flights, and its size limits growth in markets where the big groups are adding seats. Without wider domestic markets to stand on or the same scale to back them, African airlines struggle to build the networks and size needed to play on equal footing.

Strategic Partnerships: The Best Route for African Airlines

African airlines operate in markets that can feel a bit like small ponds—great for local traffic but not big enough to support lots of long-haul routes on their own. That’s where strategic partnerships come into play. By teaming up with major international carriers, local airlines can stitch their domestic markets into a larger global fabric, making it easier to fly passengers and cargo further without draining their own resources.

Take Qatar Airways, for example. The airline has put money and know-how into carriers like Airlink and RwandAir. These investments let the African airlines add extra miles to their timetables without needing to buy more planes. RwandAir, for instance, can feed passengers from Kigali straight into Qatar’s global route map, linking travelers to cities in Europe, Asia, and the Americas. That’s a big boost for a carrier that would otherwise have to build and market those routes from scratch.

The Qatar Airways-RwandAir link clearly illustrates what these partnerships can achieve. With Qatar’s cash and network, RwandAir can offer its customers more choices without losing its local flavor. Passengers can check in once in Kigali and seamlessly fly to places they never dreamed of visiting. At the same time, RwandAir keeps its domestic market and its brand at the forefront, showing that a smaller airline can think big when it has the right partner.

Ethiopian Airlines has boosted its footprint by teaming up with several African carriers, creating a smart multi-hub network that solidifies its reach across West, Central, and Southern Africa. This plan lets it tap the wider continental market without the need to buy new long-haul jets or open costly intercontinental lanes. By partnering with smaller regional airlines, Ethiopian is quietly stitching together a pan-African web that broadens its reach and grows its passenger and cargo volumes.

Similarly, Emirates and Qatar Airways are now vital for anyone looking at African skies. These Gulf giants funnel travelers through their Dubai and Doha hubs, smoothly linking Europe, Asia, and Africa. Their big, modern fleets and ability to stitch continents together fast give them a clear edge that African airlines must now factor into every growth plan.

Emirates has turned Dubai into a leading global aviation hub—now the main link for travelers flying between Africa and every corner of the planet. This success is pushing African airlines to step up their game with better services and stronger airports. Yet the high service quality and huge route networks of giants like Emirates and Qatar Airways also open doors for teamwork. By forming smart partnerships with these carriers, African airlines can give travelers smooth connections to a much broader global map. That extra reach can make them much more competitive across the aviation sector.

Challenges and Opportunities for African Aviation

Big global carriers are everywhere, but African aviation still has lots of room to grow. Across the continent, new and upgraded airports are on the way. In South Africa, Kenya, and Ethiopia, terminals are expanding to handle more passengers every day. The Ethiopian Aviation Group is leading the charge, pouring money into modern terminals and cargo facilities. Those upgrades are not only boosting capacity; they’re also making the airports more appealing to travelers and airlines, which can keep more international traffic flowing in and out of Africa.

Regulatory hurdles continue to slow growth for African airlines. Without a common set of rules from country to country, flying across borders can be slow and complicated. Still, programs like the Single African Air Transport Market (SAATM) and the African Union’s goal of smoother air links give airlines reason to believe there will be more flights across Africa and better teamwork among regional carriers.

What’s Next for African Carriers

For sustained success, African airlines need to focus on planned growth, teamwork, and a wider reach. Competing head-to-head with major global players isn’t realistic yet, but forming regional alliances, upgrading facilities, and delivering top-notch service can give them a respected voice on the world stage.

As the world’s aviation industry keeps clustering around big hub airports, African airlines can find their own space with smart, focused strategies. They can build on strengths like deep regional know-how, strong community ties, and a tourism-driven service model to attract the attention of travelers and cargo customers alike.

Conclusion

For African aviation to flourish, airlines must work together, embrace new technology, and plan smartly for growth. Though global airlines still hold most of the market, African carriers are discovering how to compete and flourish in the long run. Alliances with global leaders such as Emirates and Qatar Airways, plus ongoing upgrades to airports and customer service, are strengthening African networks and making them more connected. As the global aviation landscape keeps changing, African airlines must keep adjusting, only to find new chances for regional and worldwide expansion.

Source; TravelAndTourWorld

Tanzania is poised to become Africa’s next big travel destination in the year 2026. From chimpanzee treks in the Mahale Mountains to the sunsets on Zanzibar’s beaches, Tanzania is here to offer much more than a conventional safari destination.

Having garnered 50 nominations at the 2025 World Travel Awards—more than any other African country—Tanzania is increasingly capturing global attention. This momentum continues as Dar es Salaam hosts this year’s prestigious travel gala.

With its mix of natural beauty and growing international recognition, Tanzania offers an unmatched experience for travellers. For South Africans, Tanzania is not only an exciting place to visit but also an easy and affordable destination to reach.

Tour experts share that Tanzania’s blend of world-class conservation efforts, community development, and transformative travel experiences makes it a standout destination.

An Affordable Yet Luxurious Escape

Despite its growing reputation for luxury, Tanzania offers surprisingly affordable travel options. Fly-and-stay packages to Tanzania and Zanzibar start at a very affordable price, with return flights from Johannesburg to Dar es Salaam available at a pocket-friendly price-rate.

With visa-free entry for South African passport holders (for stays up to 90 days), shorter flight durations, and affordable all-inclusive packages, Tanzania becomes a compelling alternative to farther destinations like the Maldives or Thailand.

Tanzania’s appeal goes beyond its natural beauty. President Samia Suluhu Hassan has played a pivotal role in driving the country’s tourism sector forward. Her efforts in showcasing Tanzania’s cultural and ecological diversity through the internationally broadcast documentary The Royal Tour have contributed to the nation’s increasing global visibility.

These initiatives, alongside smarter infrastructure, a professional tourism service, and a stronger focus on conservation, are transforming Tanzania into a top-tier destination.

Unforgettable Experiences In Tanzania

Tanzania’s untouched wilderness offers an authentic African adventure. From game drives to forest treks, here are just a few of the highlights worth planning for in 2026:

• Katavi National Park: One of Africa’s last true wilderness areas, Katavi offers visitors the chance to see large hippo pods, lions, and elephants in isolation, away from the crowds.
• Ruaha National Park: A hidden gem, Ruaha is home to stunning baobab trees and exceptional predator sightings. It’s the perfect complement to a Zanzibar beach getaway.
• Nyerere National Park (formerly Selous): Larger than Switzerland, this uncrowded park offers boat safaris and walking trails, providing a more intimate safari experience.
• Mahale Mountains National Park: Accessible only by boat, this remote park on Lake Tanganyika is a dream destination for those seeking a rare chimpanzee encounter in pristine rainforest.
• Lake Manyara Treetop Walkway: This scenic forest path offers panoramic views of the park, ideal for family visits and photography.
• Tarangire National Park: Known for its massive elephant herds and rich birdlife, Tarangire is a biodiversity hotspot, perfect for multigenerational travel.
• Gombe Stream National Park: Famous for being the site of Jane Goodall’s pioneering chimpanzee research, this park offers guided treks to see wild primates up close.

Travel Tips For South Africans

• Visa-Free Travel: South African passport holders can enter Tanzania without a visa for stays of up to 90 days.
• Currency: Payments must be made in Tanzanian shillings (TZS), but international credit cards are widely accepted, and ATMs are plentiful.
• Health: Yellow fever vaccinations are recommended for travellers passing through risk areas, and malaria prophylaxis is advised for those visiting the bush.
• Packing: Be prepared for temperature shifts—days can be hot, but nights may be chilly. Pack sunscreen, insect repellent, and layered clothing.
• Cultural Etiquette: Dress modestly in Zanzibar and rural areas. Always ask before taking photos of people or sacred places.
• Book Early: Popular camps in remote parks like Katavi and Mahale fill up fast, so it’s advisable to plan your trip in advance with a travel expert.

 

A Global Spotlight On Tanzania

Tanzania’s 50 nominations at the 2025 World Travel Awards are a testament to the country’s growing tourism appeal. From Africa’s Leading Tourist Destination to innovative eco-lodges and next-generation safari operators, Tanzania is making waves on the global stage.

Hosting the 2025 World Travel Awards gala in Dar es Salaam will further cement its reputation as a world-class destination.

Following a commitment to both eco-tourism as well as community development, Tanzania is fast-shaping the future of sustainable tourism in Africa. For South Africans who are looking for an extraordinary adventure, Tanzania holds a world of unexplored potential.

Source; TravelAndTourWorld

In the late afternoon of Thursday, 7th August 2025, catastrophe struck Mwihoko, a residential area in Nairobi. A Casette citation flight by AMREF flying doctors air ambulance service crashed after taking off from Wilson Airport. The aircraft, registered as 5Y-FDM was headed to Hargeisa, Somalia on a medical emergency mission. The crash killed six and injured two others.

Incident Details and Casualties

The AMREF plane, a critical air ambulance service, was carrying two crew members and two medical personnel. Within minutes of takeoff, the aircraft lost both radar and radio communication with Air Traffic Control. The plane crashed into a house in the Mwihoko area, which is part of Kiambu County, a region that borders Nairobi. The impact was severe, and reports indicated that a loud bang followed by a fireball and thick smoke were visible from the crash site.

Among the casualties, four people aboard the plane died, including the two medical staff and two crew members. Tragically, two residents in the house struck by the plane were also confirmed dead. Two additional individuals on the ground suffered injuries and were promptly taken to a nearby hospital for medical attention.

Emergency Response and Investigations

In the aftermath of the crash, several key agencies were swiftly involved in the emergency response efforts. The Kenya Civil Aviation Authority (KCAA), led by Director-General Emile Arao, confirmed the loss of communication with the aircraft just three minutes after takeoff. A team from KCAA’s Air Accident Investigation Department was dispatched to the scene to investigate the cause of the crash. The Kenya Airports Authority (KAA) and Ministry of Transport also joined the response, working closely with aviation authorities.

Security forces, including the Kenya Defence Forces (KDF) and the National Police Service, were among the first on the scene, securing the area, assisting with rescue efforts, and managing the crowd of onlookers. The Kenya Red Cross was also present, providing essential emergency assistance to those affected.

AMREF’s Statement and Focus on Safety

AMREF Flying Doctors, the organization behind the aircraft, expressed its deepest condolences and stated that they are fully cooperating with authorities to uncover the cause of the incident. AMREF’s CEO, Stephen Gitau, emphasized that the immediate priority was supporting the families of those involved and ensuring their safety and well-being during this difficult time.

AMREF, which operates a fleet of air ambulances, is known for providing emergency medical services across East Africa. The company reassured the public that their ongoing commitment to safety remains unwavering, and they are working closely with the relevant authorities to determine the factors that led to this tragedy.

What Travellers Can Learn from This Incident

While the crash of AMREF’s air ambulance is a rare and unfortunate event, it serves as a reminder of the importance of safety measures within the aviation industry. The incident highlights the need for robust communication systems, rigorous training, and comprehensive safety protocols for both airline operators and passengers.

For travelers, particularly those using air ambulance services or flying on small aircraft, it is essential to consider the following safety precautions:

• Pre-flight Safety Checks: Ensure that the airline or service provider conducts regular safety checks and maintenance on their aircraft. Passengers should also be aware of the safety measures implemented by the service provider, especially in the case of medical air ambulances.
• Communication Protocols: It’s crucial to be informed about the communication systems of the aircraft you are flying on. AMREF’s case highlights the risks posed by sudden loss of communication between the aircraft and air traffic control.
• Monitoring Weather Conditions: Adverse weather conditions can contribute to aviation accidents. Travelers should check weather reports and, if possible, inquire about flight conditions before embarking on their journey.
• Emergency Response and Preparedness: Understand the emergency response capabilities of your service provider. A strong system for handling unexpected situations, such as aircraft malfunctions or accidents, is crucial for traveler safety.
• Insurance Coverage: Always ensure that travel insurance covers emergencies, including air ambulance services. This not only offers peace of mind but also guarantees support in case of unforeseen accidents or cancellations.

 

Measures to Improve Aviation Safety

In light of the crash, authorities have emphasized the need for stringent safety measures to prevent similar accidents in the future. Several steps are expected to be taken by the relevant aviation authorities:

• Stricter Maintenance and Safety Audits: Aviation bodies will likely enforce even more thorough inspections and audits of air ambulance operators, focusing on the safety, maintenance, and operational standards of aircraft.
• Enhanced Air Traffic Control Systems: The loss of communication with the aircraft so soon after takeoff has underscored the need for more reliable communication systems between aircraft and air traffic control.
• Improved Pilot and Crew Training: Continuous training for pilots and crew members will be a priority to ensure they are equipped to handle emergency situations efficiently.
• Comprehensive Investigations: The ongoing investigation will seek to determine the exact cause of the crash, with findings aimed at improving safety protocols across the aviation industry.

 

Conclusion

The recent AMREF Flying Doctors crash in Mwihoko has brought sorrow to many homes. As investigators piece together what happened, we’re reminded how vital it is to treat air travel safety with the highest care. Anyone needing an air ambulance should always vet the service carefully, double-check their safety checks, and know what the final plans are before the plane lifts off.

The whole aviation circle regulators, pilots, ground crews, and firms like AMREF needs to join forces and strengthen every safety step. Accidents like this can only be prevented by constant teamwork and improvement. To all those who have lost someone in this disaster, we offer our deepest condolences and support as you face this heartbreaking loss.

Source; TravelAndTourWorld

ASKY Airlines has officially launched its inaugural service to Nouakchott, Mauritania, marking a significant milestone as the airline adds its 30th destination across Africa.

The new route, which commenced on August 2, 2025, will operate three times weekly, offering seamless connections through the airline’s hub in Lomé to the rest of ASKY’s extensive African network.

The addition of Nouakchott reinforces ASKY’s mission to enhance intra-African connectivity and provide more travel options for business and leisure passengers across the continent.

With this launch, ASKY continues its expansion drive, strengthening its position as a key player in African aviation and contributing to regional trade, tourism, and economic integration.

The Kenya Association of Travel Agents (KATA) Board held a high-level consultative meeting with Hon. Rebecca Miano, EGH, Cabinet Secretary for Tourism, Wildlife, and Heritage, to discuss critical issues affecting Kenya’s tourism and travel sector.

The engagement was centered on deepening collaboration between the government and the private sector, with a focus on creating a more enabling environment for growth. Among the key matters discussed were delayed government payments and pending bills, limited access to international flights, delays in the Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) processing, the proliferation of rogue and unregulated travel agents, and the need to streamline regulatory and licensing frameworks.

The talks also underscored the importance of raising professionalism across the industry and enhancing service delivery to meet global standards.

Kenya Tourism Board (KTB) CEO, Ms. June Chepkemei, made a presentation during the meeting, stressing the need for product diversification and the alignment of national marketing strategies to boost tourism competitiveness.

Also present were Principal Secretary for Tourism, Mr. John Ololtuaa, Tourism Regulatory Authority Director General, Mr. Nobert Talam, and other senior government officials, who pledged their commitment to working closely with industry stakeholders.

Speaking after the meeting, KATA reaffirmed its role as the national voice for travel agents, dedicated to advocating for ethical practices, regulatory clarity, and a competitive business environment.

“Continuous dialogue between the public and private sectors is essential to unlocking Kenya’s full tourism potential. We remain committed to working hand in hand with the government to address challenges and drive sustainable growth,” the Association’s Chairman – Dr. Joseph Kithitu stated.

The meeting marks a continued push by KATA to engage policymakers and strengthen the sector’s resilience, positioning Kenya as a top destination in the global travel market.

More than 46 million passengers passed through Dubai International (DXB) airport in the first half of the year, up 2.3% year on year, marking the busiest first half in the airport’s 65-year history.​

That sees DXB on track to break even more records in 2025, topping its record 92.3 million passengers in 2024, which marked an annual increase of nearly 6% on the previous year. 

DXB expects annual traffic to reach 96 million this year, “bringing us closer to the symbolic 100 million milestone”, Paul Griffiths, CEO of Dubai Airports, said in a statement. 

April 2025 was the busiest month on record

DXB’s record figure for the first half of 2025 could have been even higher were it not for flight cancellations and disruptions in May and June due to regional conflicts, yet the second quarter of the year still showed resilience, posting a 3.1% increase in serving 22.5 million passengers. 

April 2025 was reported as the busiest for that month on record for the UAE airport, with more than 8 million people passing through its terminals. 

Overall in the first half of 2025, DXB handled 222,000 flights and January was the busiest month with a record 8.5 million guests, while the average stood at 7.7 million and 254,000 people per day.

The peak in traffic came on 3 January with more than 311,000 guests as visitors returned from the holiday season and expat residents returned to work.  

India was the Dubai airport’s largest source market in H1 with 5.9 million guests, followed by Saudi Arabia (3.6 million), the UK (3.0 million), Pakistan (2.1 million) and the US (1.6 million).

Meanwhile, London was the busiest city destination with 1.8 million guests, followed by Riyadh (1.5 million), Mumbai (1.2 million), Jeddah and New Delhi (1.1 million).

Griffiths added: “DXB’s continued growth through a period of regional challenges highlights the strength of Dubai and the UAE, the agility of our operations and the commitment of our airport community.”

“As we enter the second half of the year, travel activity is expected to accelerate, beginning with the late-summer peak and leading into a winter season filled with high-profile events across entertainment, sport, and business. 

Source: connectingtravel.com

The International Air Transport Association (IATA) has called on African states to reduce taxes and charges on air travel in Africa.

The global body complained that taxes and charges in air travel in the region were 15 per cent higher than the global average.  

IATA emphasised that it is critical that governments on the continent understand that the greatest value that aviation brings to an economy is catalytic, noting that transporting travellers and goods stimulates job creation and destroying demand with excessive taxation puts the brake on economic and social development. 

IATA said that where charges are used to fund critical aviation infrastructure, coordination between industry and government is essential, noting that the aim must be to build growth-supporting infrastructure that is cost-efficient and scalable. 

On blocked funds, IATA said airlines cannot operate in a market if they are unable to repatriate revenues generated, which is guaranteed in international treaties and bilateral agreements.

It regretted that the $1 billion of airline revenues being blocked from repatriation by African governments (as of May 2025)—73 per cent of total global blocked funds—impedes maintaining Africa’s international connectivity, disclosing that blocked funds are spread across 26 African countries.  

IATA remarked that airlines facing blocked funds often reduce flight frequencies or suspend routes. To facilitate aviation’s economic and social benefits, governments need to live up to their international obligation and remove all barriers to airline revenue repatriation. 

Source: Thisdaylive.com