Dubai International Airport (DXB), one of the world’s busiest aviation hubs, has introduced a new AI-powered immigration checkpoint passenger corridor, marking a major advancement in passenger processing and airport technology.

The innovation was unveiled by Mohammed Ahmed Al Marri, Director General of the General Directorate of Identity and Foreigners Affairs in Dubai, during a demonstration attended by senior officials and media representatives. According to Gulf News, the corridor enables travelers to pass through immigration without stopping at counters or presenting their passports for manual checks.

The system makes use of artificial intelligence and advanced facial recognition technology to authenticate passengers’ identities in real time. As travelers walk through, the system scans and verifies their details instantly, cross-checking them with official records. This process removes the need for traditional passport stamping while maintaining strict security protocols.

A key feature of the corridor is its ability to process up to 10 passengers at the same time, helping reduce congestion during peak hours. To ensure safety, the AI system is designed to flag suspicious or unverified cases for further manual inspection by immigration officers.

The development reflects Dubai’s continued investment in smart infrastructure as it manages growing passenger volumes. DXB handled over 86 million travelers in 2023, retaining its position as the world’s busiest international airport. With global air traffic rebounding, the demand for efficient, contactless, and secure solutions has become increasingly important.

The AI checkpoint also supports the UAE’s wider ambitions in artificial intelligence and digital transformation, in line with Dubai’s Smart City initiative. By minimizing physical interactions, the system addresses both efficiency and health considerations, offering passengers a smoother and safer experience.

With the introduction of this technology, Dubai International Airport reinforces its reputation as a global leader in innovation and as a pioneer in shaping the future of international travel.

Source travelnews.co.za

Ghana, working with the African tourism community, has kicked off the Trans-Africa Tourism and Unity Campaign to create visa-free travel across the continent. Launched in Accra, the initiative targets the visa hurdles that hold back the movement of people and goods. By making travel easier, the campaign hopes to boost tourism, deepen regional ties, and tap into the potential of Africa’s 1.4 billion people and $3.4 trillion economy. This news arrives at a crucial time for Africa’s tourism sector, as leaders recognize that better regional links are essential for future growth.

During the launch, Ghana’s Chief of Staff, Julius Debrah, stressed that stronger African ties depend on lifting visa restrictions. He said that easier travel would raise tourist numbers and open new trade and business paths. The campaign’s goal is a borderless Africa in the next five years, creating a continent that is a single destination for tourists and companies. By tackling the current travel rules that fragment the market, the initiative aims to build a more connected and thriving Africa.

Trans-Africa Tourism and Unity Campaign: A Call for Action

The Trans-Africa Tourism and Unity Campaign is an epic journey covering 40,000 kilometers of our continent. Led by activist Ras Mubarak, the campaign will run for 163 days. Along the way, Mubarak and his team will meet African heads of state, deliver keynote speeches, and make the case for visa-free travel. Their goal is to spark tourism growth and fuel economic progress. Each country they enter, they will hand deliver letters urging leaders to tear down the travel barriers that have held Africans back for too long.

The chosen route will serve as a living map, painting the picture of Africa as a single, vibrant tourism destination. Along the way, the team will sit down with tour operators, public policy experts, and community groups. Their message is simple: a borderless Africa is not just a dream—it is an economic engine. When people struggle to cross a neighboring border, the result is wasted talent and missed chances. Young people cannot find jobs, entrepreneurs are blocked from new markets, and local farmers cannot sell their produce. This campaign is about turning that friction into growth.

Tourism Growth and Regional Integration for Africa

Africa’s tourism industry is poised for explosive growth thanks to the Trans-Africa Tourism and Unity Campaign. If we drop the visa red tape and promote freer movement, tourist numbers will soar. Imagine hopping from the white sands of Kenya’s coast to the windswept dunes of Morocco, or moving between the ancient treasures of Ethiopia and Egypt. When we package the continent as one seamless destination, we pull in bigger crowds from around the globe.

Right now, many African explorers hit a wall because visas and hefty fees stand in their way. The Trans-Africa campaign is here to change that. With visas gone, travel between African nations opens like a book, and visitors can create richer, longer journeys. Boosting inter-regional trips will weave together tourism networks, create more jobs, and pump new life into local economies. Cultural exchange will thrive, too, as villages, markets, and festivals connect the continent in a dance of color and rhythm.

African countries stand to gain significantly from the rise of tourism across the continent. As more visitors arrive, hotels, tour guides, restaurants, and transport services will experience greater demand. This uptick will create jobs and prompt the construction of better tourist facilities. When countries work together to promote travel within Africa, they can pool natural resources, strengthen partnerships, and uplift each other’s tourism sectors.

Challenges and Solutions for a Borderless Africa

Even though the case for the Trans-Africa Tourism and Unity Campaign is clear, building a borderless Africa faces serious obstacles. Strict visa rules, diplomatic disagreements, and lingering political tensions can still slow progress. Yet, as Mubarak and his team journey from nation to nation, they will champion the common good by pushing to erase the barriers that keep Africa from becoming a top global tourist destination.

Policy change alone will not be enough. Education and community engagement are equally important. Campaign leaders are teaming up with local residents, travel businesses, and civic groups to explain how free movement can uplift entire communities. This grassroots dialogue will help guide governments toward visa-free travel for all Africans, turning the vision of open borders into everyday reality.

The Future of African Tourism and Connectivity

The Trans-Africa Tourism and Unity Campaign is more than just a plan; it’s a hopeful road map for the African continent. When regional borders blur and people move freely, we unlock a treasure of economic growth and shared cultures. If we keep the momentum, Africa could shine as a top global tourism hotspot, inviting travelers to dive into its rich tapestries and one-of-a-kind wonders.

At its heart, this campaign seeks a mighty yet simple dream: a united Africa where countries lift each other up. Picture countries pairing up on tourism projects, small businesses sharing best practices, and travelers hopping between capitals as easily as changing a bus. By streamlining visas and smoothing out transport, Africa will transform into one living, breathing destination, buzzing with chances for learning, earning, and connecting.

Source: TravelAndTourWorld

Africa, with its vast expanse and diverse population of over 1.4 billion people spread across 54 nations, remains one of the least visited continents for tourism. The annual number of tourists to Africa hovers just under 100 million, which is significantly lower compared to other regions of the world. Despite these numbers, the continent holds immense potential for tourism growth.

If each African nation could attract between 10% and 20% of its population as domestic tourists and foster a mere 5% of intra-African travelers, the economic benefits would be transformative. Local communities and industries would experience a surge in activity, creating new opportunities and bolstering economies. This potential for growth is one of the key drivers of Africa’s growing focus on tourism, particularly domestic tourism, which has been underscored by the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020.

The Emergence of Domestic Tourism in Africa

The COVID-19 pandemic, which forced global lockdowns and travel restrictions, highlighted the need for local tourism solutions. African nations quickly recognized that their own citizens could become the backbone of a thriving tourism industry. The idea of domestic tourism gained traction, especially as international travel remained limited.

Kenya led the way with the Tembea Kenya campaign, an initiative designed to encourage Kenyans to explore their own country. This campaign resonated deeply with locals, highlighting the beauty and cultural wealth that lay within their borders. Building on this success, South Africa launched the Sho’t Left campaign, urging citizens to take short, affordable trips across the country, while Nigeria rolled out its Naija7Wonders campaign to encourage Nigerians to discover their own heritage and hidden gems.

Grassroots Movements Fueling Domestic Tourism

Beyond the large-scale national campaigns, grassroots movements have also emerged, emphasizing the importance of exploring local destinations. Groups like Naija Explorers and Nigerian Tourism Lovers have gained traction, creating communities dedicated to promoting domestic travel. These movements have proven that domestic travel is not only feasible but also sustainable in the long term. Through their efforts, these grassroots initiatives have played a pivotal role in shifting the mindset of many locals toward recognizing the value of exploring their own nations.

Investment in Domestic Tourism Infrastructure

Many African governments have taken notice of the increasing interest in domestic tourism and are now making concerted efforts to bolster their tourism infrastructure. Investments in roads, accommodations, transport, and technology are paving the way for easier and more enjoyable travel experiences within the continent. These infrastructural upgrades are crucial in fostering the growth of domestic tourism, ensuring that both locals and visitors can access the rich cultural, natural, and historical assets that Africa offers.

Alongside physical infrastructure, African governments are ramping up their marketing strategies to promote domestic travel. This includes utilizing digital platforms to reach potential travelers, showcasing the unique offerings of each region. The rise of social media campaigns and collaborations with influencers has also helped amplify the message, encouraging citizens to embark on domestic journeys.

A Platform for Discussion: The 21st Akwaaba African Travel Market

The growth of domestic tourism in Africa is being closely monitored by industry leaders, policymakers, and investors. One of the key events that brings together these stakeholders is the Akwaaba African Travel Market, which celebrates its 21st edition in 2020. Held annually at the prestigious Eko Hotels & Suites Convention Centre in Lagos, the event serves as a platform for discussing the future of tourism on the continent.

The Akwaaba Travel Market is not only a showcase of African destinations but also a forum where the latest trends, innovations, and strategies in tourism are discussed. Attendees, which include leaders from both the public and private sectors, as well as travel enthusiasts, come together to share insights and chart the way forward for a more interconnected and dynamic tourism sector.

The African Tourism Conference: Key Insights and Discussions

An integral part of the Akwaaba Travel Market is the African Tourism Conference, which aims to delve deeper into the strategies and challenges facing the tourism sector. This year’s conference is set to focus on the strides made in domestic tourism, examining what has worked and what areas require more attention. The conference will highlight both the successes and the shortcomings of current efforts, allowing for a candid discussion on how to move forward.

A key feature of the conference will be the keynote address by Lilly Ajarova, the Senior Presidential Advisor for  Tourism in Uganda. Ajarova brings with her a wealth of experience from her previous role as the CEO of the Uganda Tourism Board. Her leadership in promoting Uganda’s rich cultural and natural heritage has positioned the country as a key player in the African tourism landscape. Her insights will be invaluable in shaping the future of African tourism, particularly in terms of government policy and strategic initiatives.

Looking to the Future: Africa’s Tourism Potential

The future of African tourism is bright, as the continent begins to recognize the full potential of its domestic market. The combined efforts of national governments, local communities, and grassroots movements are creating a fertile environment for the growth of tourism across the continent. As African countries continue to invest in infrastructure, marketing, and policy development, the sector is poised to not only boost local economies but also redefine how the world views Africa as a tourist destination.

In summary, Africa’s tourism economy is undergoing a significant transformation. The rise of domestic tourism, along with the emphasis on intra-African travel, is laying the foundation for a more resilient and sustainable tourism industry. As the continent continues to develop its tourism offerings and improve accessibility, the number of tourists, both local and international, is expected to grow. The Akwaaba African Travel Market and the African Tourism Conference will play a crucial role in shaping this future, providing a platform for dialogue and collaboration among the key players in the tourism industry.

With the continued commitment to domestic tourism and regional collaboration, Africa is on the path to becoming a leading global tourism destination.

Air Tanzania has announced the launch of direct flights connecting Nairobi, Kenya, and Zanzibar, Tanzania, starting August 18, 2025. The move is set to strengthen regional connectivity, expand travel options for passengers, and further enhance the growing tourism and business ties between the two East African destinations.

Under the new schedule, Flight TC233 will depart Nairobi’s Jomo Kenyatta International Airport at 06h50 and land in Zanzibar at 08h10 every Monday, Wednesday, and Friday. On the return leg, Flight TC204 will operate every Tuesday and Thursday, departing Zanzibar at 05h40 and arriving in Nairobi at 07h00.

With this new service, travelers will enjoy a faster and more convenient connection between Nairobi and Zanzibar without the need for transit stops. Zanzibar, renowned for its white sandy beaches, spice farms, Stone Town heritage, and vibrant Swahili culture, has long been a popular getaway for Kenyan holidaymakers. Likewise, Nairobi serves as a major business and travel hub in East Africa, offering access to international connections and thriving trade opportunities.

According to travel industry stakeholders, the introduction of direct flights is expected to stimulate both tourism and trade, while also creating more opportunities for collaboration across the region. The timing of the flights also makes them convenient for business travelers seeking early arrivals as well as tourists planning short holiday breaks.

Passengers looking to book tickets for these flights are encouraged to use Kenya Association of Travel Agents (KATA)-certified agents to ensure professional, reliable, and seamless travel arrangements.

Find a certified agent here

Air Tanzania’s latest move underscores the growing importance of East African aviation connectivity, which continues to play a critical role in driving economic integration, cultural exchange, and tourism growth in the region.

Flying between Africa’s major cities remains a frustrating experience for millions of travellers. Despite being home to over a billion people across a landmass three times larger than Europe, the continent’s air transport network remains fragmented and inefficient.

The statistics paint a stark picture of Africa’s aviation underperformance. While the continent represents approximately 17% of the global population, its air transport accounts for less than 3% of worldwide traffic.

This disparity becomes more apparent when examining interregional travel. Only 7 out of the 54 countries on the African continent offer direct flights to more than 20 other African nations. While Northern Africa enjoys relatively strong links with a connectivity rate of 67%, interregional connections are weak, just 35% between Northern and Western Africa, and as low as 3% between Western and Southern Africa (AFRAA, Q4 2024).

The connectivity crisis extends beyond major hubs. Travellers seeking to fly between Nairobi and Dakar face limited options, with no direct flights currently available. Similarly, there are no non-stop flights between Algiers and Kinshasa, nor can passengers reach Johannesburg from Casablanca without changing planes. These routing inefficiencies force travellers to make awkward stopovers in the Middle East or Europe, adding hours to journeys that should be straightforward regional connections.

Open Skies Policy requires caution, not a Free Pass for foreign airlines

Consolidation of African airlines presents a viable solution to these inefficiencies. The continent’s aviation industry is plagued by high operational costs, with fuel, leasing, and financing expenses often exceeding those in other global regions. By pooling resources, harmonising operations, and building joint route networks, African carriers can achieve the scale and efficiency needed to expand direct intra-regional services.

Africa previously attempted continental aviation unity through Air Afrique, founded by eleven West African nations in 1961. Based in Abidjan, this pan-continental carrier transported hundreds of thousands of passengers annually as an economic development tool. However, Air Afrique collapsed in 2002 due to financial problems and competing shareholder interests, with routes going to Air France and other international carriers. This failure highlighted the complexities of multinational airline ventures and the need for stronger governance structures.

The Strategic Partnership Framework signed between Kenya Airways and SAA in November 2021 initially represented a promising approach to pan-African aviation consolidation. This collaboration, supported by both governments, was designed to focus on shared services, including route networks, fleet deployment, and technical maintenance operations to achieve cost savings for both carriers.

The setback underscores the complex realities of multinational airline partnerships in Africa’s challenging aviation environment.

KQ renews codeshare agreement with China Eastern Airlines

The successful merger of Air France and KLM in 2004 provides a compelling precedent for African consolidation efforts. This partnership created a European leader in air transport by leveraging complementary hub systems at Paris-CDG and Amsterdam-Schiphol, while maintaining distinct brand identities for different market segments.

The Air France-KLM model demonstrates how strategic partnerships can reduce costs, increase revenues, and expand network reach without losing operational efficiency.

A pan African airline alliance aligns with the Africa Continental Free Trade Area Agreement (AfCFTA) objectives of creating a single market for goods and services. Enhanced connectivity would facilitate business mobility, cultural exchange, and economic integration across the continent.

However, the fundamental need for such partnerships remains more pressing than ever. The continent’s young, rapidly urbanising population, growing middle class, and projected traffic doubling within 20 years present significant growth opportunities that cannot be fully realised through fragmented, competing airlines.

For consolidation to succeed, it must transcend mere corporate restructuring to address regulatory harmonisation, infrastructure development, and diplomatic cooperation. The ultimate goal should be creating a unified aviation ecosystem that serves Africa’s economic ambitions while providing practical, accessible, and affordable travel solutions for its people. KQ’s pursuit of partnerships with other African airlines is essential for Africa’s aviation success.

Source: Biznakenya.com

In today’s interconnected world, the travel industry thrives on collaboration, shared knowledge, and a united voice. This is where travel industry organisations step in, acting as the backbone of the sector, safeguarding its interests, and driving it toward sustainable growth. From global networks to regional alliances, these bodies ensure that travel professionals are not just service providers but key players in shaping economies, influencing policy, and enhancing customer trust.

At the global level, the International Air Transport Association (IATA) plays a pivotal role in setting standards for airline safety, ticketing, and financial settlement systems. By accrediting travel agents and ensuring harmonised practices worldwide, IATA builds efficiency, trust, and consistency across the air travel ecosystem.

The United Federation of Travel Agents’ Associations (UFTAA) represents national travel agent bodies from over 65 countries, serving as the unified global voice of travel agents. UFTAA champions fair business practices, professional training, and stronger partnerships between agencies and industry suppliers, ensuring agents worldwide have a seat at the decision-making table.

In the United States, the American Society of Travel Advisors (ASTA) stands as one of the most influential advocates for travel professionals. Through legislative advocacy, industry education, and global networking, ASTA has elevated the profession’s credibility and expanded opportunities for cross-border collaboration.

Closer to home, the Kenya Association of Travel Agents (KATA), representing over 300-member travel agencies, is the leading voice of Kenya’s travel sector. KATA advocates for fair regulations, promotes ethical business practices, and invests in training and innovation to ensure its members remain competitive in an evolving marketplace. By fostering strategic partnerships, KATA positions Kenya as a trusted hub for travel services in Africa.

Regionally, the Association of Eastern and Southern Africa Travel Agents (AESATA) unites national associations from Kenya, Uganda, Tanzania, Ethiopia, Somalia, Malawi, Rwanda, Zambia, Zimbabwe, South Africa, Mauritius, and Botswana. AESATA addresses common challenges such as regulatory changes, technology disruptions, and the need for harmonised service standards across borders.

A prime example of AESATA’s role is the upcoming 2025 AESATA Travel Agents’ Conference, taking place from October 2 to 3, 2025, at the Rainbow Towers Hotel and Conference Centre in Harare, Zimbabwe, under the theme “Connect, Collaborate, Co-create.” The event will bring together travel agents, industry leaders, and stakeholders from across the region to network, share insights, and explore strategies for growth. Standard Bank Zimbabwe, as Platinum Sponsor, will highlight its secure and reliable travel payment solutions, reflecting the event’s focus on innovation and collaboration.

The power of these organisations lies in their ability to amplify the industry’s voice. Individually, a travel agency can advocate for its needs, but united under strong associations, those voices gain influence, credibility, and the ability to drive meaningful change. From negotiating airline fare structures to shaping government policy, these organisations ensure that the travel industry remains resilient, trusted, and forward-looking.

In an era of shifting consumer behaviours, rapid technological change, and global uncertainties, travel industry organisations remain the glue that holds the sector together, ensuring that, no matter the turbulence, travel continues to fuel economic growth, cultural exchange, and human connection.