Travel News

UAE hotels expect weak performance in Q4 2026 with full travel volume recovery from Europe and the U.S. projected by Q2 2027. Market recovery varies, with Germany expected in late 2027.

India has waived visa fees for Thai nationals applying for a 30-day e-Tourist visa valid through 2027. Applicants must still apply online and receive Indian government approval before traveling.

Australian Home Affairs Minister Tony Burke announced new immigration changes targeting backpackers, international students' families, and visa overstayers on September 17, 2026. The Labor government aims to reduce net overseas migration to 245,000 in 2026-27 and enforce stricter visa compliance measures.

Australia implemented stricter migration controls from September 2026 targeting international students, backpackers, and visa hoppers. New rules limit family visas for students and impose caps on working holiday visa extensions.

From 20 September 2026, UK rail passengers with cancelled tickets can use them on alternative operators’ trains within a two-hour window. This policy extends cross-operator ticket acceptance and aims to reduce disruption delays.

UAE hotel operators predict weak occupancy in Q4 2026 with full travel volume recovery expected only by Q2 2027. Recovery timelines vary across markets, with Germany seen lagging behind.

India has waived the visa fee for Thai nationals applying for the 30-day e-Tourist visa until the end of 2027. The double-entry visa enhances travel flexibility during this period.

The Albanese government plans to reduce working holiday visa numbers by almost 40,000 annually. Tourism and primary production sectors oppose the move, while business and mining groups back prioritizing skilled migration.

Australia introduced new migration policies restricting family accompaniment for international students and capping working holiday visa extensions. The government targets reducing net overseas migration to 225,000 by 2028.

The 22nd Akwaaba African Travel Market opened on September 13, 2026, at Eko Hotel in Lagos, focusing on sports tourism linked to AFCON 2027. The African Tour Operators’ Summit returned after eight years, aiming to create multi-destination football travel packages.