The tourism sector in eThekwini continues to demonstrate resilience, with strong domestic tourism performance providing a solid foundation for growth, while international tourism shows encouraging signs of recovery despite ongoing global economic pressures.
This emerged during the Presidential eThekwini Working Group (PeWG) Workstream 4 meeting on Tourism Revitalisation, held in uMhlanga on Friday, 14 August 2026, where stakeholders reviewed the latest tourism performance trends and strategies to strengthen the region’s visitor economy.
Presenting the latest tourism data, South African Tourism’s Head of Data Analytics, Melusi Mngomezulu, reported that domestic tourism remains the primary driver of the sector.
Mngomezulu said that between January and May 2026, eThekwini recorded approximately 1.8 million domestic trips, generating an estimated R14.5 billion in visitor spending.
“Although expenditure moderated compared to the exceptionally strong 2025 performance, it remains 38% higher than 2024 levels, with accommodation and dining showing particularly strong growth. International tourism recorded approximately 134,900 visitors and R416.2 million in spend during the same period,” said Mngomezulu.
Mngomezulu added that while overall expenditure was lower compared to 2025, demand remains above 2024 levels, supported by key markets including the United Kingdom, the United States, Mozambique, Australia and the United Arab Emirates.
Encouraging growth was also recorded from African markets such as Zambia, Kenya and Tanzania.
Executive Director for Economic Development and Planning, and Co-Chairperson of Workstream 4, Ms Lihle Phewa, said the data confirms that Durban remains an attractive tourism destination.
“Our focus now is not only on increasing visitor numbers but on creating experiences that encourage visitors to stay longer, spend more and contribute meaningfully to local businesses, communities and economic growth. Through continued collaboration between government and the private sector, we are confident that the tourism sector will continue its upward trajectory,” said Phewa.
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