The MENA business travel sector has experienced significant expansion, surpassing $17 billion this year, according to Tumodo.
Data from the online business travel platform highlights a 35% increase in booking value, alongside a 20% reduction in CO2 emissions. Tumodo has integrated AI-driven predictive analytics to optimize budget forecasts and maximize savings.
In the UAE, bookings surged by 250% in 2024 compared to the previous year. The average booking value increased by 35%, with typical trip durations spanning five to six days. September emerged as the busiest month, marking the start of the business season in the Middle East.
Emirates, Turkish Airlines, Qatar Airways, and Flydubai were the preferred airlines for business travelers, while Dubai maintained its role as a key travel hub. Popular routes included round trips to London, Riyadh, and Cairo, with newer routes emerging, such as Yerevan-Belgrade and Dublin-Belgrade.
Passenger class preferences indicated:
- 70% chose economy
- 29% opted for business class
- Less than 1% selected first class
Train travel has also grown in popularity, reflecting a broader shift toward sustainable options. Tumodo’s initiatives align with the UAE Environment Vision 2030, supporting eco-conscious travel.
Industries driving this growth include energy, mining, IT, gaming, construction, and real estate.
Vladimir Kokorin, Tumodo’s founder, noted:
“The rapid growth mirrors our clients’ evolving needs. Our analytics, powered by AI predictions and CO2 tracking, help companies save up to 15% by refining travel policies and forecasts. Integrations with operational platforms further boost efficiency.”
Additional services are also in high demand, with:
- Visa support up 15%
- Transfers rising by 11%
- Event services growing by 7.25%
Hotel preferences reflect a shift toward luxury, with 39% choosing five-star hotels and 36% opting for four-star accommodations. Three-star hotels account for 13%, while 2% prefer two-star properties, and 9% did not specify.
Experts project Middle Eastern business travel spending, including in the UAE, to contribute to global expenditures reaching $1.48 trillion by 2024, driven by a regional growth rate of 11.2%.
