Tourism News

The global appetite for authentic travel is increasingly central to demand, and the Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi is meeting it with scale and intention. Its cultural strategy shows a destination treating curiosity as its most valuable currency.

Extreme vetting, along with more travel fees, could deter tourists ahead of major events like the World Cup.

Skift partnered with the Department of Tourism and Culture – Abu Dhabi to present the most important insights and takeaways drawn directly from on-stage conversations.

A full recovery in inbound tourism isn't expected until 2029, and new fees and vetting requirements won't help.

For an inbound tourism sector already fighting headwinds, this move transforms the seamless ESTA process into a privacy minefield, likely pushing hesitant European and Asian travelers toward friendlier borders.

Low gas prices and cruise demand are expected to fuel a 2025 holiday travel surge.

India’s winter travel is growing in both volume and maturity. Earlier bookings, higher spend on experiences, and strong short-haul demand suggest a more confident, value-conscious traveler.

Across Africa, luxury travel is evolving beyond gated resorts and safari lodges toward experiences rooted in culture, creativity, and community. With rising investment, expanding airlift, and a young generation seeking purpose-driven experiences, the continent is redefining what modern luxury means.

In 2026, the luxury bubble will swell. As wealth concentrates, premium becomes the engine of global tourism. The risk? When travel depends on the top 10% — and, increasingly, the top 1% — the entire industry rises and falls with them.

With green marketing collapsing and net-zero plans unravelling, the industry must finally face reality: Its current climate strategy won’t work. A fundamental rethink begins now.