Category Archives: NTO (National Tourist Offices)

In Mumbai to meet the new Country Manager for India, Ritu Verma, and interact with the trade, Gary Robson, Director (Europe, Middle East & India), VisitBritain, says, “Indian visitors will spend nearly £1 billion while visiting the UK this year. The India-UK connectivity is strong and growing with 166 direct flights a week without including the recent Indigo’s Delhi-Manchester route.”

His Excellency Josel F Ignacio, Ambassador of the Republic of the Philippines to India, speaking after the resumption of direct flights between New Delhi and Manila, said that the country has been trying to recover its pre-pandemic tourism numbers. “With visa-free entry for Indian tourists and Air India reviving this route, we are confident of surpassing pre-COVID arrivals and welcoming more Indian friends to our shores.” In 2019, the Philippines welcomed 130,000 Indian tourists annually, a number that was steadily rising before the pandemic. “We were optimistic that the number would double in the coming years, but COVID happened. From 57,000 arrivals two years ago, we grew to about 78,000 last year, showing significant recovery,” he noted. His Excellency Ignacio expressed optimism about faster growth ahead. “Now we feel the increase will not just be incremental. We will reach the pre-COVID number sooner because of two enabling factors. First, the Philippines grant of 14-day visa-free entry to Indian tourists. And secondly, thanks to Air India for reviving the New Delhi–Manila route. With these two elements, we are confident we will be welcoming more Indian friends to our shores.”

The Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi (DCT Abu Dhabi) has hosted the Experience Abu Dhabi Roadshow across New Delhi, Bangalore, and Mumbai from 8-12 September 2025. These events, part of a series of roadshow events hosted by DCT Abu Dhabi, provided local travel trade partners with a comprehensive overview of Abu Dhabi’s dynamic tourism offerings, upcoming attractions, and strategic partnerships. The three-city roadshow showcased the growth opportunities Abu Dhabi presents to Indian travellers, while facilitating meetings between representatives from Abu Dhabi’s hotels, attractions, airlines, Destination Management Companies (DMCs), and India’s top travel agencies and tour operators. India is Abu Dhabi’s top source market for inbound tourism. In 2024, the emirate welcomed over 360,000 Indian hotel guests, a 43% increase from the previous year, and is projected to welcome over 400,000 visitors in 2025. Indian travellers have shown strong interest in Abu Dhabi as a destination, with the growth in visitors being driven by an extensive calendar of live events, cultural experiences, increased flight connectivity from major Indian cities, and a diverse range of travel products that appeal to Indian families, luxury seekers, MICE travellers, and trade partners. This represents an exciting opportunity for India’s travel industry professionals to engage with a growing market. Abdulla Yousuf, Director of International Operations at DCT Abu Dhabi, said: “The roadshows in India marked a significant step forward in our collaborative work with our valued partners to create memorable experiences for visitors travelling from India to Abu Dhabi. It also allowed India’s travel trade representatives to explore the innovative ideas and shared value that DCT Abu Dhabi has strived to create within the industry, a value that we believe benefits everyone and …

Zimbabwe took a bold stride during the 18th edition of the Sanganai/Hlanganani Kumbanayi World Tourism Expo, as the event was hosted for the very first time in Mutare, Manicaland Province, after 17 years in Bulawayo. The milestone was amplified by the inaugural Air Zimbabwe flight from Harare to Mutare, welcomed in grand style at Grand Reef Aerodrome by Hon. Barbara Rwodzi, Minister of Tourism and Hospitality Industry, Hon. Felix Mhona, Minister of Transport and Infrastructural Development, Hon. Tongai Mnangagwa, Deputy Minister of Tourism and Hospitality Industry, alongside senior officials from Air Zimbabwe, and the Airports Company of Zimbabwe. This landmark flight signaled a new era of accessibility for the Eastern Highlands. As part of its strategic drive to captivate the Indian market, the Ministry of Tourism and Hospitality Industry, in collaboration with the Embassy of the Republic of Zimbabwe in India, invited nine leading Indian travel buyers for an immersive journey from the Eastern Highlands to Victoria Falls. The Embassy continues to play a pivotal role in marketing Zimbabwe as an authentic and multi-dimensional destination, ensuring that the country’s rich cultural, natural, and adventure offerings are effectively communicated to Indian travelers. The journey began in Nyanga, where the timeless charm of Montclair Resort & Casino set the tone with warm hospitality and breathtaking vistas. At Aberfoyle Lodge, the group experienced a retreat — with misty mornings, waterfall nearby, and organic meals tailored to Indian palates, all wrapped in a Victorian-era ambiance. Highlights of the Eastern Highlands included: Scaling Mount Nyangani – conquering Zimbabwe’s tallest peak (2,593m) for sweeping views above the clouds Adrenaline at Mutarazi Falls – ziplining across Africa’s second-highest waterfall, an unforgettable heart-racing feat Classic hospitality – from the …

Tourism India Alliance (TIA) successfully concluded its Malaysia Mega Destination Showcase FAM trip, bringing together a strong delegation of 40 leading travel agents and tour operators from across India. The FAM cum study tour was organized in association with Malaysia Tourism, Langkawi Development Board, Malaysia Airlines, Malaysian Indian Tour and Travel Association (MITTA), and Malaysia Airlines, with the objective of showcasing Malaysia’s diverse tourism offerings and strengthening bilateral tourism ties between India and Malaysia. Over the course of the program, delegates explored the unique attractions of Langkawi, Kuala Lumpur and Genting along with some of Malaysia’s emerging destinations. The showcase highlighted the country’s vibrant culture, pristine natural beauty, modern infrastructure, and strong positioning as a preferred destination for both leisure and MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions) travel. Participants had the opportunity to engage in exclusive property visits, cultural experiences, and B2B networking sessions with Malaysian DMCs, hoteliers, and tourism stakeholders, aimed at creating stronger collaborations and future business opportunities. Speaking on the occasion, Mukesh Jain, EVP – Tourism India Alliance (TIA), said: “This Mega Destination Showcase has been an eye-opener for our delegates, many of whom were visiting Malaysia for the first time. The warmth, hospitality, and excellent support extended by Malaysia Tourism, Langkawi Development Board, MITTA, and Tourland DMC made this program truly memorable. We believe this initiative will significantly contribute to enhancing Malaysia’s visibility and appeal among Indian travellers, particularly in the leisure and MICE segments.” “We are grateful to Datuk Manoharan Periasamy, Director General – Tourism Malaysia, Dato Aruldass Arulandu, President – MITTA and Mr Amit Mehta, Regional Manager – South Asia, Middle East & Africa at Malaysia Airlines for their unconditional and generous support that …

The 68th TAAI Convention was inaugurated at the Emirates Palace in Abu Dhabi. Sunil Kumar, President, TAAI, in his address said, “At this convention, we will not only explore business techniques and innovations, but also how our actions can amplify the good that sustains both communities and commerce.”

Nepal Tourism Board (NTB), the National Tourism Organization of Nepal, is pleased to inform you all that peace, stability, and normalcy have been fully restored across the country following recent political developments. With the formation of Interim Government under the premiership of the first female Prime Minister of Nepal Rt. Hon’ble Sushila Karki, daily life has resumed smoothly, businesses and offices are open, and citizens are returning to their livelihoods with renewed optimism after partially imposed curfews and restrictions on travel. A spirit of hope—particularly among youth—reflects growing confidence in good governance and socio-economic prosperity. Interim Government has assured timely elections, further strengthening public trust and stability. For travelers, these changes bring positive assurance. Public transportation, domestic and international flights, and all major tourist destinations are operating normally. Hotels, restaurants, and travel services are open and welcoming guests in safe and comfortable environment. Tourism in Nepal has a remarkable history of resilience. Despite past crises, including natural disasters and political challenges, Nepal’s tourism industry has consistently bounced back, showcasing the enduring spirit of its people, support of international tourism fraternity, and the timeless allure of its landscapes and heritage. Globally, destinations that have faced similar political upheavals have demonstrated tourism’s ability to recover swiftly, and Nepal is no exception. NTB is confident that tourism sector will once again rebound, stronger than ever, as visitors return to experience the unparalleled beauty of the Himalaya, vibrant cultural traditions, and sacred sites. Nepal is now safe, peaceful, and ready to host visitors from around the world. For the latest travel updates and advisories, please visit NTB’s official website at www.nfb.gov.np or contact our offices directly.

The Enterprising Travel Agents Association (ETAA) Mumbai Chapter, in collaboration with Tourism Malaysia, successfully kicked off its first Knowledge Session at the Tourism Malaysia office in Mumbai. The session saw the participation of ETAA members, who gained valuable insights into Malaysia’s latest attractions, destinations, and unique travel experiences. ETAA has announced that the next Knowledge Session will be held on 7th October 2025. ETAA Members are encouraged to participate and benefit from these exclusive learning and networking opportunities. Members also had the opportunity to interact directly with the Tourism Malaysia leadership team: Noriah Jaafar – Director, Tourism Malaysia T. Ediwanto Eddie – Deputy Director, Tourism Malaysia Jane D’Cruz – Marketing Manager Speaking about the initiative, ETAA highlighted that such knowledge sessions are designed to keep members updated with evolving tourism offerings, while also strengthening industry relationships. The program was hosted and organized by Tourism Malaysia, with coordination support from the ETAA Mumbai BOD team – Mr Jagat Mehta – National Board Member, Mr Abhijit Khadilkar – National Board Member & Membership head, Mrs Dipti Pradhan Thakoor- National Board Member & Event head, Mr Dharmesh Advani – National Board Member Sivadas, CEO, Sivadas Travel “This is the best training program about Malayasia conducted by ETAA committee and Malaysian Tourism. Very informative. Well done” Ajinkya Dhumma, CEO, Classis Travel and Tours “The session was highly informative and provided valuable insights into Malaysia’s diverse tourism offerings luxurious properties at the island-hopping destination i.e. Sabah and Sarawak.”

Destination DC welcomed 13 top Indian travel trade partners for their first-ever Reverse India Sales Mission, held in Washington, DC from August 23 to August 28. Over six days, the Indian trade professionals engaged in programs that created opportunities for business development and cultural immersion. Seventeen local partners, including hotels, museums, restaurants, city tours and experiences, participated in one-on-one meetings and roundtable discussions with the trade. The agents also explored some of DC’s best offerings, including the tour of the iconic National Mall with Capitol Express Tours, Smithsonian museums, The People’s House: A White House Experience, and more. The group was in town just in time for the DC Jazz Festival and enjoyed a private jazz dinner with live music at the rooftop of the Kimpton Banneker Hotel. The greatest highlight of this trip was the Destination DC’s Marketing Outlook Meeting held at Capital Turnaround—a unique meeting space inside Navy Yard’s historic streetcar barn. The DDC team announced the latest visitation data, industry updates and travel forecasts for 2026 in this annual meeting. The attendees enjoyed breakfast and networking with 500+ industry leaders and professionals, followed by a presentation by Destination DC’s President & CEO, Elliott L. Ferguson, II, Didio Pequeno, Director of Hospitality Market Analytics at CoStar Group; and Adam Sacks, President of Tourism Economics. Reflecting on the success of the mission, Ferguson said, “It was a pleasure hosting the Indian travel trade in Washington, DC, where they were able to experience the District’s unique and diverse cultural and culinary offerings. The growth of visitation numbers from India has been exciting for us, and the market has been, and continues to be, a top focus globally.”

Join Switzerland Tourism for an exclusive webinar on the various touristic products and services of Travel Switzerland and Rail Europe. Learn about the upcoming first-class Swiss Travel Pass promo for travellers visiting Switzerland Oct 2025 – Mar 2026, through which they can enjoy complimentary first-class travel days. For more info, write tojaspreet.kaur@ddppl.com or call 9650196532.