Growth anticipated for MENA business travel demand

Business travel in the Middle East and North Africa is poised for strong growth, driven by frequent movement within the region and a shift towards shorter, lower-cost trips, as reported by Khaleej Times via Tumodo on December 22nd.  

Reportedly, the MENA business travel market is expected to reach $270.8 billion by 2030, growing at an annual rate of 8.3%. Tumodo, a UAE-based business travel platform, stated that the growth is being driven by stronger economic ties between Gulf countries, large infrastructure projects and the region’s strategic positioning as a link between Asia, Europe and Africa.

Tumodo’s data shows demand for business travel continued to rise even as average booking prices fell. The average trip cost reached $427.8, down from $496.6 in 2024, highlighting better regional connections and more affordable travel options, especially within the Gulf.

Mohanad Nada of Tumodo, claimed the fall in prices despite rising demand shows that travel within MENA has become more cost-efficient. “The shift reflects strengthening economic ties within the Middle East and continued integration across key Mena markets,” he added. 

Travel demand peaked early in the year, with January and February recording the highest activity. Volumes then steadied through spring and summer before slowing in September. Bookings picked up again in November, while December figures are still incomplete. 

Airfares followed a similar pattern, staying high early in the year, dropping down over the late summer period and rising again as the main business season returned in September.

Routes between Gulf cities dominated the market. Riyadh to Dubai and Dubai to Riyadh were the most active and affordable routes, with average prices of $174 and $233 respectively, highlighting the growing importance of short regional flights.

Among airlines, Emirates led bookings with a 24.3% share, followed by IndiGo at 20.4%. Turkish Airlines, Flydubai, Saudia, Pegasus Airlines and Aeroflot also held notable shares. Most travellers flew with economy class, while business class made up over a quarter of bookings.

Short business trips were the most common. One-day travel accounted for the largest share, followed by two- and three-day stays. Longer trips were less frequent, reflecting tighter schedules and a focus on efficiency.

Khaleej Times via Tumodo, Maghrebi.org