Durban confirmed as host city for Africa's Travel Indaba 2026: A boost for tourism
The Durban ICC will once again host Africa's Travel Indaba in 2026.
Image: Doctor Ngcobo / Independent Newspapers
Durban has been confirmed as the host city for Africa’s Travel Indaba (ATI) for the next five years, beginning in 2026, solidifying its position as a premier destination for tourism and business events in Africa.
South African Tourism announced on Tuesday that Durban will host Africa’s Travel Indaba following a rigorous and competitive procurement process that saw several cities across the country submit bids.
Minister of Tourism Patricia de Lille welcomed the announcement, highlighting the broader economic significance of the decision.
“I would like to extend my heartfelt congratulations to Durban on being confirmed as the host city for Africa’s Travel Indaba in 2026. These events are not just about tourism; they are about economic opportunity, job creation, and positioning Africa as a globally competitive destination,” she said.
Johannesburg was confirmed as the host of the Meetings Africa conference.
Africa’s Travel Indaba, Africa’s largest tourism trade show, is scheduled to take place from May 11 to 14, 2026 at the Inkosi Albert Luthuli International Convention Centre (Durban ICC).
The event attracts buyers, exhibitors, media, and stakeholders from across the continent and beyond, promoting intra-African trade, investment, and tourism growth.
KwaZulu-Natal MEC for Economic Development, Tourism and Environmental Affairs, Reverend Musa Zondi, described the event as a platform to showcase the province’s offerings on a global stage.
“As the province of KwaZulu-Natal (KZN), we are thrilled to be entrusted with hosting Africa’s Travel Indaba (ATI) for the next five years. This is a great opportunity for KZN to host the global tourism fraternity on our shores, and the impact of Africa’s Travel Indaba extends beyond the three days of business for KZN,” said Zondi.
He added that ATI offers significant opportunities for both established and emerging tourism entrepreneurs.
“ATI presents immeasurable opportunities for our emerging tourism entrepreneurs who can strike business deals that can propel their businesses to even greater heights. Having KZN as the backdrop of one of the biggest tourism trade shows also positions us as a possible film destination for blockbuster movies that can also be shot in KZN,” Zondi said.
eThekwini mayor Cyril Xaba welcomed the hosting rights, describing it as a major boost for Durban’s global profile.
“Hosting Africa’s Travel Indaba for the next five years is a tremendous opportunity for Durban to showcase its unique offerings and strengthen its position as Southern Africa’s tourism hub. We look forward to welcoming industry leaders from around the world and creating meaningful business opportunities for local entrepreneurs and stakeholders,” he said.
Xaba also acknowledged the support of national tourism authorities. “We also want to extend our gratitude to Minister de Lille and the South African Tourism team for their ongoing commitment to supporting Durban and other host cities in delivering world-class, sustainable events that drive tourism growth across the continent,” he added.