TAAG Angola Airlines New Aircraft Lease Set to Improve Travel Comfort and Global Connectivity

TAAG Angola Airlines has signed a lease agreement with Avolon Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner, a move that promises to enhance the airline’s long-haul flight capabilities and improve travel options for passengers traveling to and from Angola.

The Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner will be a key addition to TAAG Angola Airlines’ efforts to modernize and diversify its aircraft lineup. This lease deal marks a significant step in TAAG’s ongoing expansion, underscoring its strategic commitment to improving its passenger experience and increasing its global presence in the competitive aviation industry.

A Strategic Move to Boost TAAG’s Long-Haul Capabilities

The lease of the Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner by TAAG Angola Airlines comes at a time when the airline is focused on extending its global reach, especially to key international destinations. This is an important consideration for the airline as it looks to increase its competitiveness in the global travel market while simultaneously meeting the growing demand for international travel.

The Dreamliner is renowned for its advanced engineering, offering a combination of environmental efficiency and passenger comfort. The aircraft’s larger windows, quieter cabins, and reduced jet lag capabilities are all features that will enhance the travel experience for passengers on both business and leisure journeys.

Improving the Passenger Experience: Comfort and Sustainability

Passengers flying aboard the Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner will enjoy a significant upgrade in terms of comfort. The cabin features also include larger windows, allowing travelers to enjoy sweeping views of the world below, enhancing the overall in-flight experience.

Additionally, the Dreamliner’s fuel-efficient engines contribute to lower carbon emissions, making it one of the most environmentally friendly aircraft in operation today. This focus on sustainability will not only help TAAG meet international environmental standards but will also appeal to the growing segment of environmentally conscious travelers who seek greener travel options.

Strengthening Angola’s Global Travel Connections

This strategic lease deal with Avolon is particularly important for TAAG Angola Airlines as it enhances the airline’s ability to connect Angola to major international hubs. For travelers, this means greater ease of access to Angola, whether for business, tourism, or family visits.

With Angola being an emerging destination for both tourism and business, TAAG’s ability to offer direct, high-quality flights to major cities around the world is a vital part of the country’s broader strategy to improve its international presence. The introduction of the Dreamliner will undoubtedly play a role in attracting more visitors to Angola, bolstering the country’s tourism sector, and opening up greater economic opportunities for local businesses by enhancing Angola’s accessibility on the global travel map.

A Look to the Future: What Travelers Can Expect

For travelers seeking seamless, comfortable, and environmentally responsible air travel, the introduction of the Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner into TAAG’s fleet will set a new standard. As Angola continues to rise as a key travel and business destination, the addition of this state-of-the-art aircraft will offer enhanced connectivity, making it easier than ever for international travelers to explore the vibrant culture, rich history, and growing business opportunities in Angola.

A Promising Outlook for the Airline and Angola’s Tourism Industry

TAAG Angola Airlines’ new lease agreement for the Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner is more than just an upgrade to the airline’s fleet—it’s a game-changer for travelers looking to explore Angola and beyond. For visitors, the Dreamliner promises more comfort and less environmental impact, making travel to and from Angola more accessible and enjoyable than ever before.

With this exciting new development, TAAG Angola Airlines is paving the way for more travelers to explore Angola, whether for business, leisure, or family purposes. For travelers looking for comfort, convenience, and environmental responsibility, the Dreamliner offers a glimpse into the future of air travel from Angola.

Source: travelandtourworld.com

South Africa Joins Namibia, Seychelles, Gambia, Uganda, Zambia And More In Kenya Pan-African Visa-Free Policy To Ignite Tourism Growth In 2025

South Africa joins Namibia, Seychelles, Gambia, Uganda, Zambia, and several other African nations in Kenya’s bold visa-free travel revolution because the East African nation has officially removed visa requirements for nearly all African countries to boost regional tourism and strengthen continental unity. By doing so, Kenya is redefining how travellers move across Africa, making it easier for visitors to enter through a simple digital system or enjoy complete visa-free access. This decision not only reflects Kenya’s growing role as the continent’s travel gateway but also positions it as a model for open borders, economic integration, and a new era of African tourism built on accessibility and cooperation.

Kenya has long stood as one of Africa’s most iconic travel destinations. Its endless savannahs, snow-capped mountains, and white beaches on the Indian Ocean have attracted adventurers and dreamers for decades. From safaris in the Maasai Mara to quiet escapes along Diani’s coastline, the country offers a window into everything travellers imagine Africa to be.

That image has now evolved. In 2024, Kenya abolished traditional visa requirements for all foreign nationals. By early 2025, it took an even bolder step, declaring visa-free entry for every African nation. This move has elevated Kenya as one of the most welcoming destinations on the continent and signalled the beginning of a new travel era. The decision is not merely administrative; it is symbolic of Africa’s growing unity and Kenya’s ambition to make travel across the continent seamless and inclusive.

Visa-Free Entry for African Nations

Under the 2025 policy, citizens from all African countries can now enter Kenya without a visa. The only exceptions are Somalia and Libya, whose travellers remain subject to additional security reviews. This reform allows African citizens to visit, trade, and explore without prior paperwork or embassy appointments. It has already sparked optimism across the continent as families, entrepreneurs, and tourists embrace easier mobility.

Among the countries confirmed to benefit from visa-free access are South Africa, Namibia, Seychelles, Gambia, Uganda, Zambia, Zimbabwe, Botswana, Burundi, Ghana, Malawi, Rwanda, and Mauritius. For most African visitors, the stay period is between sixty and ninety days, while members of the East African Community, including Uganda, Tanzania, and Rwanda, may remain for up to six months.

This change also reflects Kenya’s growing alignment with the African Union’s goal of free movement across borders, an idea rooted in economic cooperation and regional solidarity.

The Simplified Entry Process for Global Travellers

While Africa enjoys visa-free access, Kenya has also streamlined entry for travellers from the rest of the world through the Electronic Travel Authorisation system. Known as the eTA, this platform replaces the traditional short-term visa process with a digital pre-approval system. It allows visitors from Asia, Europe, the Americas, and beyond to apply online before arrival, saving time and paperwork.

The eTA functions as a travel clearance document granting entry for tourism, business, or family visits. Visitors can stay in Kenya for up to ninety days per trip. The process is straightforward: travellers fill in an online form, upload a passport photo, provide proof of travel and accommodation, and pay a processing fee of around thirty US dollars. Approval usually takes less than seventy-two hours, and the authorisation arrives via email.

Children under eighteen are included in a parent or guardian’s application. Those merely transiting through the airport without leaving it are exempt. Although having an eTA provides entry clearance, the final decision to admit any traveller still rests with immigration officers on arrival, a standard international practice.

The Reason Behind Kenya’s Big Move

Kenya’s decision to eliminate visas and adopt a universal eTA framework stems from its commitment to revitalising tourism and supporting economic growth. Tourism remains one of the country’s key industries, contributing nearly ten percent of its gross domestic product and providing millions of jobs.

The government recognised that cumbersome visa procedures had discouraged potential travellers, particularly in a post-pandemic world where tourists seek simple, fast, and digital solutions. By removing barriers, Kenya aims to restore pre-pandemic visitor numbers and strengthen its reputation as the continent’s primary gateway. This vision also reinforces the idea that Africa’s future lies in regional integration, where trade and tourism flow freely between nations.

Why Kenya Continues to Captivate Travellers

Kenya’s charm lies in its extraordinary diversity. It is among the few places on Earth where visitors can encounter the Big Five—lions, elephants, leopards, buffaloes, and rhinos—in their natural habitats. The Maasai Mara National Reserve remains one of the world’s most famous wildlife sanctuaries, drawing thousands of photographers and explorers every year. During the Great Wildebeest Migration, millions of animals sweep across the Mara plains, creating one of nature’s greatest spectacles.

Beyond the savannahs, Kenya offers contrasting landscapes that astonish first-time visitors. The snow-clad peaks of Mount Kenya tower above the horizon, while the Rift Valley stretches deep into the earth, revealing mirror-like lakes and volcanic escarpments. Lake Nakuru shimmers in pink hues as flamingos gather by the thousands, and the turquoise waters of the Indian Ocean meet coral reefs along Watamu and Malindi. The diversity of these natural settings means that within one country, travellers can combine mountain climbs, safaris, and beach retreats.

Culture, Heritage, and the Human Connection

For those who travel for culture rather than wildlife, Kenya offers a depth of experience that goes beyond sightseeing. Along the coast lies Lamu Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site where narrow lanes and intricately carved doors tell stories of Swahili civilisation and Indian Ocean trade. Traditional wooden dhows still glide through the harbour, reflecting centuries of cultural exchange.

In contrast, Nairobi, Kenya’s bustling capital, represents the modern face of Africa. It is one of the few cities in the world where a safari park lies within city limits. Nairobi National Park, just minutes from skyscrapers and cafés, allows visitors to spot lions and giraffes without leaving the urban skyline. The capital also serves as a hub for innovation and business, earning its reputation as the “Silicon Savannah.”

Meeting the Maasai, Samburu, or Turkana communities provides insight into Kenya’s cultural soul. Their traditions, dances, and craftsmanship connect visitors to the country’s heritage in a way that feels personal and authentic.

The Economic and Regional Impact

The visa-free initiative is not only about easier travel; it’s also a strategic economic policy. By simplifying entry, Kenya expects a significant rise in tourist arrivals, potentially between fifteen and twenty percent each year. This growth benefits hotels, airlines, tour operators, and local artisans who depend on tourism revenue.

Nairobi’s Jomo Kenyatta International Airport and Mombasa’s Moi International Airport are now positioned as regional gateways, connecting travellers to neighbouring countries and beyond. Kenya’s leadership in digital border systems also sets a precedent for others in East Africa and across the continent to modernise their immigration processes.

The digitalisation of travel through the eTA reduces bureaucracy, lowers administrative costs, and supports sustainability by cutting paper use. It also enhances security by centralising traveller data under one platform.

Africa’s Path to Easier Mobility

Kenya’s reform marks a milestone for African travel. For decades, the continent has faced fragmented visa policies that discouraged regional tourism. Kenya’s example now proves that openness can strengthen both economies and relationships. By allowing Africans to travel freely, the country promotes mutual understanding and collaboration.

The benefits reach beyond tourism. Easier movement fuels trade, business summits, and educational exchanges. From South Africa and Namibia in the south to Gambia and Uganda across the west and east, Kenya’s open-door approach could inspire similar reforms elsewhere.

In this sense, Kenya is not just welcoming travellers; it is championing a vision of a border-light Africa, where shared heritage and opportunity unite nations.

A New Age of Travel Convenience

For international visitors, the eTA system embodies modern travel ideals—speed, transparency, and accessibility. The process eliminates embassy visits and long processing times while maintaining border control standards. Most approvals are completed within three days, giving travellers more flexibility when planning.

This system has also positioned Kenya as a leader in digital transformation across tourism and governance. It reinforces the country’s image as a forward-looking destination that blends heritage with innovation.

The Future of Tourism in Kenya

Kenya’s reforms come at a time when travellers are seeking meaningful experiences rather than conventional vacations. The combination of open borders and easy digital entry gives the country a competitive advantage. With continuous investment in infrastructure, including expanded airports and upgraded road networks, Kenya is preparing to accommodate millions more visitors each year.

For African travellers, Kenya’s visa-free policy represents pride and progress—a reminder that the continent can shape its own travel future. For the world, it offers a glimpse into a destination that stands for both beauty and innovation.

As more nations follow its lead, Kenya’s message remains clear. Travel should be simple, welcoming, and borderless. The country has redefined what it means to be open—not just geographically, but in spirit.

South Africa joins Namibia, Seychelles, Gambia, Uganda, Zambia and more in Kenya’s visa-free travel revolution as Kenya removes entry barriers to boost tourism, promote African unity, and position itself as the continent’s most accessible destination.

Kenya is no longer merely a destination; it is the gateway to a connected Africa, a place where adventure, culture, and technology meet under one sky.

Source : travelandtourworld.com

The Global Surge of Digital Nomad Visas and Africa’s Window of Opportunity

A new kind of migration

On a Tuesday morning in a sun-splashed café in leafy a Nairobi neighborhood, laptops open before flat whites, you’ll hear a dozen accents discussing deadlines across three time zones. A designer in from Lisbon is troubleshooting a client handoff, a machine-learning engineer from Lagos scans code between bites of mandazi, at the corner table, two founders whisper through a Figma prototype. None of them work for local firms and yet their rent, their groceries, their rides, their weekends in Naivasha all add up here. This is the quiet economy of digital nomadism, now knocking on Africa’s door.

This is not tourism as usual. It’s the quieter migration of remote professionals who bring their work with them, staying for months rather than days, and spending locally while their incomes arrive from elsewhere. Governments have noticed. In recent years, “digital nomad” or remote-work visas have moved from experiment to policy toolkit, an attempt to capture footloose talent without igniting domestic labor fights.

What these visas actually do

Most programs follow a simple pattern, prove you work for a foreign employer or run your own company abroad, meet a minimum income threshold, buy health insurance, and you can live legally for six to twelve months, sometimes longer. The pitch is pragmatic. Nomads rent apartments, join gyms, buy groceries, and fill co-working spaces. They don’t typically compete for local jobs, and they showcase the city to future visitors. Towns that lost residents to big capitals suddenly see co-working spaces humming and neighborhood cafés busy on weekday afternoons.

Why the race is intensifying

Countries aren’t just courting sunshine seekers. They’re chasing year-round stability in visitor spending. Traditional tourism rises and falls with seasons; remote workers flatten the curve. That’s why island nations and smaller European states led early, streamlining paperwork and emphasizing connectivity as much as beaches. The market has matured too. Today’s applicants look beyond clichés, comparing internet reliability, mid-term housing, safety, and whether the local scene has meetups, maker spaces, and decent public transport.

The case for Africa

Africa has the time-zone advantage for Europe, cost structures that stretch a remote salary further, and a set of cities whose reputations have shifted from “interesting” to “compelling.” Nairobi’s tech ecosystem, Kigali’s efficiency, Dakar’s creative energy, Accra’s music scene, and Cape Town’s outdoor-urban blend all read like a lifestyle portfolio for knowledge workers. Early movers such as Mauritius and Cabo Verde have shown that clear rules and good marketing can turn curiosity into arrivals. South Africa has discussed a remote-work visa; others are studying models and talking to local tech communities and tourism boards.

Benefits that outlast a season

When these programs work, they don’t just boost occupancy rates. They widen the aperture on collaboration. A city that attracts product managers and designers will inevitably see collisions with local founders and students at meetups, hack nights, or over shared desks. Co-learning happens informally as camera clubs become micro-courses in content production, weekend cycling groups morph into intros to supply-chain software, a coffee-shop conversation becomes a six-month mentorship. None of this replaces formal job creation, but it layers new relationships onto existing economies and nudges them more digital.

The pressure points to watch

Success brings friction. Rents can climb in popular neighborhoods. Short-lets can elbow out long-term tenants. “Good internet” in one district can mask poor reliability elsewhere. Policymakers in African capitals have the advantage of hindsight: they can require longer minimum stays to discourage churn, nudge landlords toward mid-term leases, tie visa renewals to local registration (not just tourist stamps), and ring-fence parts of housing stock for residents. They can also link visas to contributions that leave a trace, participation in community workshops, discounted seats for locals at co-working hubs, or support for neighborhood digital labs.

What a smart visa looks like

The strongest programs are boring in the best way: predictable fees, transparent income thresholds, responsive consulates, and realistic processing times. They bake in basics like proof of health insurance, background checks without turning the process into a scavenger hunt. They coordinate across ministries so immigration, tourism, and ICT are aligned on messaging and data. And they publish the small print that matters to remote workers: whether they need local tax numbers, how to open a bank account, how to obtain a SIM, what counts as acceptable proof of income for freelancers. The more legible a city is on day one, the more likely a visitor becomes a six-month resident who tells friends to come.

Infrastructure is destiny

None of this works without reliable internet and power. That means redundancy, fiber plus 5G, backup for load-shedding, and public spaces that treat Wi-Fi as civic infrastructure, the way parks treat benches and lighting. It also means the less glamorous bits: clear addresses, simple e-payments that work with foreign cards, and municipal services that can be accessed online. Cities that sweat these details, maps that actually match the street grid, sidewalks you can roll a suitcase over, ride-hail coverage at odd hours, earn reputations that marketing budgets can’t buy.

Storytelling matters as much as policy

Digital nomads don’t choose countries; they choose narratives they can picture themselves inside. Cities that surface their distinct scenes including film festivals, cycling clubs, live-coding nights, rooftop poetry readings, convert browsers into applicants. Africa’s storytelling edge is real: food, music, design, and nature collide in ways that feel new to many visitors. The task is to package that energy with practical information and to make the welcome feel official, not improvised.

A chance to lead, not follow

The movement is not a fad. It’s a structural change in how knowledge work is organized and where it can happen. Africa’s opportunity is to set terms early and fairly: visas that favor longer, steadier stays; incentives that spread benefits beyond a few streets; infrastructure that serves residents first and visitors by extension. Do that, and the continent won’t just host a wave of remote workers, it will help shape what the next decade of mobile work looks like.

Kenya Gears Up for Magical Kenya Travel Expo 2025, Showcasing Local and Global Tourism Opportunities

Nairobi is set to host the Magical Kenya Travel Expo (MKTE) 2025 from 1st to 3rd October at Uhuru Gardens, bringing together local and international tourism stakeholders for one of East Africa’s premier travel events. The expo offers a platform for Kenyan travel businesses to connect with global partners, explore new markets, and strengthen their presence in the international tourism arena.

Building on the success of previous editions, last year’s MKTE attracted over 3,000 delegates from 25 countries, highlighting Kenya’s diverse tourism offerings. This year, organizers aim to host 5,000 participants, including 160 hosted buyers and more than 100 buyers’ clubs, underscoring the event’s continued growth and importance for both local enterprises and international players.

The expo provides a unique opportunity for small and medium-sized tourism businesses to access global markets without the high costs of overseas exhibitions. It also encourages domestic tourism, promoting Kenya’s rich variety of destinations and experiences to local travelers, which remains an untapped segment with significant growth potential.

KATA (Kenya Association of Travel Agents) members will play a leading role at the event, occupying the KATA Pavilion – Booth B47. Participating agencies include Holiday Bazaar, Travelshoppe, Triply, AA Destinations, Grey Impala Safaris, Stejos Tours & Travel, Memima Tours & Travel, and Safe Drive Tours & Travel. Visitors to the pavilion can explore innovative travel products, engage with industry experts, and identify new partnership opportunities that will drive the future of Kenya’s tourism sector.

MKTE 2025 continues to reinforce Kenya’s position as a leading travel destination in Africa. By connecting local tourism players with international buyers and showcasing the country’s world-class attractions, the expo is set to strengthen business linkages, boost visitor numbers, and further diversify Kenya’s tourism offerings, benefiting the industry at both grassroots and national levels.

Emirates and flydubai Expand Global Reach with 14 New Destinations in 2025

Emirates and flydubai have launched flights to 14 new destinations across their global networks since the start of 2025, driven by strong international travel demand and Dubai’s continued emergence as a leading aviation hub. The expansion includes the resumption of seasonal routes and increased flight frequencies to existing destinations.

Emirates Adds Five New Destinations
Emirates, the flagship carrier, introduced five new destinations this year. The airline inaugurated services to Da Nang, Vietnam, on June 2, followed by Siem Reap, Cambodia, on June 3, and Shenzhen, China, on July 1.

Operations to Damascus, Syria, were also resumed, with plans to expand to daily flights from October 26. In early August, Emirates launched a new daily service to Hangzhou, marking its fifth gateway in mainland China and its second addition in less than a month after Shenzhen.

The airline plans to deploy its Airbus A350 aircraft on the Hangzhou route starting October, reinforcing its commitment to the Chinese market.

flydubai’s Aggressive Global Expansion
Low-cost carrier flydubai has launched flights to nine new destinations since January 2025. In September, it began regular services to Iași, Romania, becoming the first UAE carrier to operate direct flights from Dubai to the city. With twice-weekly flights, flydubai now serves two Romanian destinations, Iași and Bucharest, and plans to increase Bucharest operations to three daily flights, totaling 21 weekly services.

Also in September, flydubai inaugurated flights to Chisinau, Moldova, becoming the first UAE national carrier to connect Dubai directly with the Moldovan capital. Earlier this year, the airline expanded its summer network with seasonal services to Antalya, Turkey, and Al Alamein, Egypt.

On June 1, flydubai resumed daily flights to Damascus, marking a milestone as the first UAE carrier to restore operations to the Syrian capital. The airline also launched new services to Peshawar, Pakistan, from May 15, 2025, and added three destinations in Iran: Bushehr and Tabriz on March 13, and Qeshm Island on March 14.

Looking Ahead: New Routes in Late 2025
flydubai plans to further strengthen its global footprint with three additional routes in the final quarter of 2025. Scheduled launches include flights to Nairobi, Kenya, from October 15, as well as new European routes to Riga, Latvia, and Vilnius, Lithuania, beginning in December.

Source: gulfnews.com

KATA and Rubis Energy Launch Strategic Partnership to Boost Efficiency for Travel Agents

In a move set to enhance operational efficiency for Kenya’s travel industry, the Kenya Association of Travel Agents (KATA) has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Rubis Energy Kenya. The partnership aims to provide KATA members with exclusive fuel benefits and strengthen support for the country’s travel and tourism sector.

Under the agreement, KATA members will gain access to personalized Rubis fuel cards, which offer a KES 4 per litre discount at service stations nationwide. The initiative is designed to deliver convenience, security, and significant cost savings for travel agencies and their staff, with options for both prepaid and postpaid card usage to simplify fuel management.

Olivier Sabrié, Group Managing Director of Rubis Energy Kenya, said the company was excited to partner with KATA to support travel agents across the country. “This initiative provides tangible benefits to travel agencies’ operations and demonstrates Rubis’ commitment to empowering the industry,” he remarked.

Dr. Joseph Kithitu, KATA Chairman, highlighted the strategic value of the collaboration, noting that it reflects the association’s ongoing commitment to improving efficiency and delivering cost-saving opportunities for its members. “By merging Rubis’ extensive retail network with KATA’s leadership in the travel industry, this partnership strengthens sustainability, competitiveness, and growth for travel agencies nationwide,” Dr. Kithitu said.

KATA members can register for the fuel cards by submitting the required documentation through the association. Rubis Energy will oversee the issuance and distribution of the cards, ensuring timely delivery and seamless access for all registered participants.

The collaboration marks a significant step in supporting Kenya’s travel sector, enabling agencies to operate more efficiently while maximizing cost savings.

Flynas Launches Direct Flights Between Riyadh and Nairobi, Boosting Tourism and Trade Opportunities

Kenyan travelers and the travel industry are set to benefit from enhanced connectivity to Saudi Arabia, as Saudi Arabian low-cost carrier flynas announces the launch of three weekly direct flights between Riyadh and Nairobi starting 2 October 2025. The airline will operate the route using modern A320neo aircraft, offering passengers a comfortable and convenient travel experience.

The flights are scheduled to depart Riyadh on Thursdays, Saturdays, and Tuesdays at 22:00, arriving in Nairobi at 03:10 the following day. The return flights will leave Nairobi at 04:00 on Fridays, Sundays, and Wednesdays, landing in Riyadh at 09:00.

This new connection comes at a strategic time, coinciding with Riyadh Season 2025, one of the Middle East’s largest entertainment and cultural festivals. The event presents Kenyan travelers with an opportunity to explore world-class performances, shopping, dining, and unique cultural experiences, while also encouraging travel agents to create compelling leisure packages that combine the festival with other Saudi attractions.

KATA (Kenya Association of Travel Agents) recently hosted a courtesy visit from flynas Senior Sales Executive – Africa, Mohamed Elsamman, and Country Representative, Mercy Wambui, ahead of the inaugural flight. The association hailed the route as a milestone for tourism, trade, and religious travel, opening wider opportunities for Umrah and Hajj packages, business tourism, and leisure travel, while strengthening Nairobi’s position as a regional hub.

“Connecting Riyadh and Nairobi is a game-changer for both countries. It makes travel more convenient and affordable, supports Kenya’s tourism sector, and creates new business opportunities on both sides,” said Mohamed Elsamman. KATA CEO Nicanor Sabula added, “We welcome flynas to the Kenyan market and look forward to leveraging this new route to grow tourism, trade, and cultural exchange.”

Kenya becomes the fourth East African destination in flynas’ African network, joining Addis Ababa, Entebbe, and Djibouti. The move aligns with Saudi Arabia’s National Civil Aviation Strategy, which aims to connect the Kingdom to 250 international destinations, accommodate 330 million passengers, and host 150 million tourists annually by 2030. It also supports the Pilgrims Experience Program (PEP), facilitating access to the Two Holy Mosques.

The new flights not only provide Kenyan travelers with direct access to Saudi Arabia for leisure, business, and religious purposes but also open the door for more visitors and investors from the Kingdom, strengthening bilateral trade and cultural ties.

With the inaugural flight set for 3 October 2025, travel agents and industry stakeholders are encouraged to start promoting attractive packages and offers to capitalize on this new route and the growing demand for Saudi Arabia as a destination.

More routes. More opportunities. More value for travelers and agents alike.

KATA Champions Sustainable and Inclusive Tourism During UN World Tourism Week 2025

The Coast region came alive as the Kenya Association of Travel Agents (KATA) coast members joined partners and stakeholders in a rich culmination of activities marking UN World Tourism Week 2025. The celebrations kicked off on 25th September with a warm ‘Meet & Greet’ at Moi International Airport for guests arriving at the Coast. The initiative brought together key industry players, government officials, and airlines. Representing KATA in the week’s activities were Chairman Dr. Joseph Kithitu, CEO Nic Sabula, Coast Liaison Patrick Kamanga, and Board Directors Said Tahir and Grace Ndung’u, all underscoring the collaborative spirit behind this year’s celebrations.

“Tourism is about people, connection, and shared responsibility,” said Dr. Joseph Kithitu. “This week demonstrates how partnerships can shape a stronger and more sustainable future for our industry.”

Green March, Tree Planting, and Cultural Celebrations

On 27th September, World Tourism Day itself, attention turned to sustainability and cultural preservation. The day began with a Green March, bringing together stakeholders and participants in a public display of solidarity for responsible tourism. The march led to a tree planting exercise, where KATA Coast members reaffirmed the importance of environmental stewardship.

“Planting trees is a practical commitment to combating climate change, restoring ecosystems, and creating greener destinations for both local communities and future travelers,” said CEO Nic Sabula. “It reflects our wider mission to promote sustainable travel practices that preserve Kenya’s natural heritage.”

The environmental activities were followed by a grand procession to Mama Ngina Waterfront, where thrilling safari drives and immersive virtual reality experiences, vibrant cultural dances, and community celebrations highlighted the diversity and richness of Kenya’s Coast. The performances were complemented by speeches from Cabinet Secretary for Tourism Hon. Rebecca Miano, Principal Secretary John Ololtuaa, Mombasa Governor Abdullswamad Sherrif Nassir, and top KATA leadership.

Speaking at the Waterfront, CS Miano highlighted the sector’s collaborative and sustainable focus. “World Tourism Day reminds us that travel & tourism are not only economic drivers but also tools to preserve our culture, empower communities, and protect the environment. Together, with industry stakeholders and communities, we can build a sector that is inclusive, resilient, and sustainable. “She said.

Innovation and Partnerships Driving Tourism Forward

This year’s celebrations also showcased innovation that included virtual reality, which could be used to “transport” visitors to Kenya’s top destinations, alongside traditional safari drives. Airlines, including Safarilink and Kenya Airways, joined KATA to highlight how collaboration between aviation and travel stakeholders strengthens connectivity and enhances visitor experiences.

“What does it take to build a stronger, more sustainable future for tourism? Collaboration,” said Patrick Kamanga, KATA Coast Liaison. “Working together ensures tourism benefits everyone, from visitors to local communities.”

A Shared Commitment to Sustainable and Inclusive Tourism

The UN World Tourism Week 2025 celebrations at the Coast reinforced the message that sustainable tourism requires united action. From symbolic gestures like tree planting to immersive cultural and technological experiences, each activity underlined the sector’s commitment to responsible, inclusive, and people-centered growth.

“As we celebrate World Tourism Day, we reaffirm our commitment to promoting responsible travel, preserving our cultural heritage, and fostering connections across communities,” asserted Dr. Joseph Kithitu. “Tourism has the power to connect, inspire, and transform lives, and it is our shared responsibility to ensure it thrives sustainably.”

Through these efforts, Kenya continues to position itself as a leading tourism destination where cultural pride, innovation, and environmental stewardship go hand in hand.

Travelport and Kenya Airways Treat Travel Consultants to Cape Town Familiarization Trip

Travelport, a corporate member of the Kenya Association of Travel Agents (KATA), in partnership with Kenya Airways, recently hosted a group of Kenyan travel consultants on a familiarization trip to Cape Town, South Africa. The initiative was designed to deepen agents’ destination knowledge while offering them first-hand experiences to share with their clients.

The consultants explored some of Cape Town’s most celebrated attractions. From hiking up the iconic Table Mountain to strolling through the bustling V&A Waterfront, the itinerary showcased both adventure and culture. The group also visited the penguin colony at Boulders Beach and travelled to Cape Point, where the Atlantic and Indian Oceans meet.

Other highlights included a stop at an ostrich farm, the scenic Chapman’s Peak drive, and the colorful streets of the historic Bo-Kaap district. Each experience provided the consultants with insights into Cape Town’s unique offerings, from natural wonders to cultural heritage.

Familiarization trips are a key tool in equipping travel consultants with the expertise needed to recommend destinations confidently. By seeing and experiencing the attractions first-hand, agents are better positioned to craft authentic itineraries and deliver personalized advice to clients.

For KATA, the trip underscores the importance of strategic industry partnerships. Collaborations such as this empower travel consultants with practical knowledge, enhance professionalism across the sector, and ultimately inspire excellence in service delivery.

As the travel industry continues to recover and innovate, initiatives that combine training with memorable experiences will remain central to building a strong, competitive tourism sector in Kenya.

Visa-Free Africa: What the AU’s Push Means for Tourism Growth

Opening Doors Across the Continent
The African Union (AU) and the African Development Bank (AfDB) have renewed calls for more widespread visa-free travel across Africa, arguing that border restrictions remain a major barrier to regional integration, trade, and tourism. The Africa Visa Openness Index (AVOI), a joint initiative of the AU and AfDB, tracks progress in this area (au.int).

Kenya’s Position: Gateway and Policy Moves
Kenya has positioned itself as one of the leading beneficiaries of any visa-free Africa framework. In 2024, the government announced that most African nationals would be granted visa-free entry to encourage tourism, trade, and regional cooperation. This policy includes 60-day visa-free stays for eligible African visitors, with limited exceptions for security purposes (discover.passportindex.org).

Tourism Opportunities for the Country
Simpler and more open visa regimes are expected to encourage intra-African travel. Weekend or short-stay travelers, cultural tourists, and business delegates are more likely to visit when entry is hassle-free. Airlines, hotels, resorts, and niche tour operators are poised to benefit from the increased demand.

Travel agents play a key role in this scenario. Licensed operators, represented by bodies such as the Kenya Association of Travel Agents (KATA), see visa-free travel as an opportunity to package experiences that combine wildlife safaris, coastal tours, urban attractions, and cultural immersion. By providing advisory services, curated itineraries, and seamless travel support, agents remain a critical link between travelers and tourism operators in this new landscape.

Challenges: Implementation and Regulation
Opening borders comes with regulatory and operational challenges. Immigration authorities must manage increased flows, maintain border infrastructure, and address health, customs, and safety concerns. Travel agents emphasize the need for clear guidelines and compliance frameworks to protect both travelers and service providers.

While visa-free policies reduce barriers, practical limitations remain. Agents often help clients navigate exceptions, such as countries requiring prior authorizations or e-visas. Structured implementation and collaboration with licensed operators ensure that travelers experience a smooth journey, minimizing confusion and delays (issafrica.org).

Looking Ahead: Kenya as Regional Gatekeeper
Kenya has made significant legislative changes, including the visa-free policy announced in mid-2025. The move positions the country as a regional tourism hub. Licensed travel agents and tour operators are essential to converting this opportunity into tangible growth. By creating quality experiences, managing bookings, and advising travelers, agents ensure that Kenya’s tourism potential is fully realized.


Visa-free travel across Africa has the potential to transform tourism on the continent. For Kenya, the combination of strategic location, infrastructure, and professional travel services provides a strong foundation. With regulatory clarity, operational preparedness, and professional support from travel agents, Kenya can position itself not just as a gateway but as a premier destination for African travelers.