Celebrating its 75 years of leadership in hospitality, Jimmy Shaw, President, HRAWI, said, “We are set to roll out special initiatives and commemorative events throughout the year to elevate the hospitality sector. As we celebrate this milestone, we reaffirm our dedication to promoting growth, advocating for progressive policies, driving sustainability and strengthening India’s position as a global tourism hub.”
Read More »Himachal Pradesh emerges as most welcoming state followed by Kerala and Goa: Booking.com
As part of the 13th edition of the annual Traveller Review Awards 2025, Booking.com unveiled the 10 Most Welcoming Places in India and on Earth. Himachal Pradesh was named the Most Welcoming Region in India followed by Kerala and Goa. Bir emerged as the Most Welcoming City in India followed by Mararikulam and Leh.
Read More »India travel & tourism sector likely to double up to US$ 523 billion, employ 45 million by 2034: WTTC
India’s travel and tourism sector is set for significant expansion. Its valuation is expected to more than double to $523 billion over the next decade. According to Julia Simpson, President, WTTC, the sector, which currently contributes around 7% to India’s GDP and employs approximately 45 million people, is projected to support 63 million jobs by 2034.
Read More »India sparkles at FITUR 2025 in Madrid, showcases its rich cultural and tourism potential
India, a prominent exhibitor, showcased its rich cultural and tourism potential at the 45th edition of FITUR 2025 alongside 9,500 companies and 156 countries. Held at IFEMA MADRID, this global event offers a vital platform for fostering tourism collaborations, highlighting India’s growing importance in the international travel and tourism industry.
Read More »India emerges as top destination for global corporate, records 18% growth in H2-2024: FCM
India recorded an 18% growth in business class travel in H2-2024, emerging as a top destination for global corporates, FCM Travel states. With its strategic importance in global trade and strong economic ties, India continues to attract business travellers. Increased flight capacity, competitive fares, and its appeal as a hub for conferences and meetings have further fuelled this growth, solidifying its position as a key player in the Asia-Pacific travel landscape.
Read More »India number two tourism market for Oman, eager to continue working together: Oman Minister
“India and Oman continue to work together in the tourism sector, facilitating easier movement and exchanges between the two nations,” said Salim bin Mohammed Al Mahrouqi, Minister of Heritage & Tourism, Oman. Noting that Indians are number two in terms of tourism influx to Oman, he sought further improvement in tourism ties between the two countries.
Read More »India’s air traffic expected to record 11-12% CAGR, driven by faster growth in global segment, says Jefferies
India’s aviation traffic is expected to clock 11-12% CAGR over the medium term, driven by faster growth in the international segment, Jefferies said. In hotels, the industry revenue per available room is expected to clock 7-8% CAGR going ahead after double-digit growth seen in the past two to three years, it said while suggesting a structural demand upturn in the travel sector.
Read More »India setting global standards for contactless biometric air travel, authorities to start a pilot project in June 2025
As airports embrace digital innovation, India positions itself to lead the world with its vision of a fully biometric-enabled and contactless airport experience. The Indian government and aviation authorities are keen on developing a robust framework for biometric systems that aligns with global practices. India is poised to lead the charge with the upcoming implementation of facial authentication technology for international air travel, scheduled for a pilot project in June 2025, said Siddharth Sharma, Head- IT Operations, Digi Yatra.
Read More »Bilateral flying rights key to India’s aviation growth, offer more direct global connectivity: IATA Chief
Willie Walsh, Director General, International Air Transport Association (IATA) expressed confidence that India would ease bilateral flying rights, especially as Indian carriers like Air India and IndiGo broadened their fleets with wide-body aircraft. He underlined the benefits of such agreements, highlighting that an increase in the rights will enable Indian airlines to offer more direct international connections.
Read More »ETA system to smooth visa application process for Indians, boost tourism ties with India: Patricia de Lille
Celebrating its 30 years of diplomatic relations with India, South African Tourism held a Press Meet in New Delhi. During the address, Patricia de Lille, Minister of Tourism, South Africa, announced the launch of a new digital Entry Travel Agreement (ETA) system to boost tourism ties with India. The move will replace the existing e-visa programme to simplify and expedite the visa application process. She said they have cut down extra documentation required for the visa application to three international documents across South African missions. She further revealed that mass visa processing for group travellers will now be made possible via a recently gazetted Trusted Tourist Tour Operator System Scheme that is primarily targeted at the Chinese and Indian markets. So far, 23 Indian tour operators have applied for this program in its first phase, demonstrating the positive response it has already received. The system will take effect on 20 January 2025. Highlighting that air connectivity remains a challenge for Indian tourists, Patricia de Lille, Minister of Tourism, South Africa, said, “We will be meeting Indian carriers, including Air India, IndiGo, and SpiceJet to explore possibilities of direct flight between India and South Africa as we currently lack any direct route.” The session was focused on economic growth and strategic collaboration, delving into the future travel outlook, India-focused initiatives, and key insights to shape and strengthen outbound Indian travel to South Africa.
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