The City has welcomed the successful hosting of Africa’s Travel Indaba, which concluded today, 14 May, at the Inkosi Albert Luthuli International Convention Centre.
This year’s Africa’s Travel Indaba, hosted in partnership with South African Tourism and key industry stakeholders, has once again reaffirmed Durban’s status as a leading tourism and events destination on the African continent.
Thousands of delegates, exhibitors, buyers, media representatives, and tourism leaders from across the globe gathered in Durban this week to engage in meaningful business discussions, forge partnerships, and showcase Africa’s diverse tourism offerings.
The event delivered significant economic and tourism benefits for the City, with hotels, restaurants, transport operators, attractions, and local businesses all experiencing increased activity throughout the week.
Durban’s warm hospitality, world-class infrastructure, and vibrant tourism experiences were on full display as delegates explored the City’s beaches, cultural attractions, township tourism offerings, adventure activities, and culinary experiences.
EThekwini Mayor Councillor Cyril Xaba said the successful hosting of the event demonstrates Durban’s continued ability to stage major international conferences and exhibitions.
“The City has showcased its capability, hospitality, and readiness to welcome the world. We are encouraged by the positive feedback received from delegates and tourism stakeholders who experienced Durban during this important tourism showcase,” said Mayor Xaba.
He acknowledged the strong collaboration between government, tourism bodies, law enforcement agencies, the private sector, and communities in ensuring a safe and welcoming environment for visitors throughout the event.
Africa’s Travel Indaba provided a valuable platform for destination marketing, investment promotion, networking opportunities, and tourism business growth, while further strengthening Durban’s reputation as a gateway to the African continent.
As part of the closing of Africa’s Travel Indaba, Durban Tourism officially launched the 5th Durban Tourism Business Awards, an initiative aimed at recognising and celebrating excellence in the tourism sector.
The awards ceremony will take place on 18 June at the Inkosi Albert Luthuli International Convention Centre.
As the curtain closes on the 2026 edition of Africa’s Travel Indaba, the City extends its gratitude to all exhibitors, buyers, delegates, organisers, sponsors, tourism partners, volunteers, and residents who contributed to the success of the event.
Durban looks forward to continuing to build tourism momentum and leveraging the partnerships and opportunities created during Africa’s Travel Indaba to drive economic growth and job creation within the tourism sector.
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