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Johannesburg and Durban Secure Africa’s Top Tourism Trade Shows Through 2030 Johannesburg and Durban Secure Africa’s Top Tourism Trade Shows Through 2030

South Africa’s tourism sector is set for a major boost as Johannesburg and Durban have been confirmed as the host cities for Africa’s two flagship tourism trade shows—Meetings Africa and Africa’s Travel Indaba (ATI)—for the next five years, starting in 2026. This decision, following a rigorous and competitive procurement process overseen by South African Tourism, cements both cities’ reputations as premier destinations for business and leisure tourism events on the continent.

Meetings Africa, the continent’s leading business tourism platform, will celebrate its 20th edition at the Sandton Convention Centre in Johannesburg from 23-25 February 2026. Meanwhile, Africa’s Travel Indaba, which focuses on leisure tourism, will take place from 11-14 May 2026 at the Inkosi Albert Luthuli International Convention Centre in Durban. Both events are recognized as critical economic levers, generating valuable business leads, promoting investment, and enhancing intra-African trade and connectivity.

These trade shows are Africa’s premier platforms for connecting buyers, exhibitors, media, and tourism stakeholders from across the continent and around the world. Their continued presence in Johannesburg and Durban is a testament to the cities’ world-class infrastructure, proven track records, and alignment with South Africa’s strategic tourism objectives. The selection process saw several cities and provinces submit compelling bids, but Johannesburg and Durban stood out for their commitment to innovation, economic impact, and the ability to deliver exceptional delegate experiences.

Tourism Minister Patricia de Lille congratulated both cities, emphasizing that these events are about more than just tourism—they are engines for economic opportunity, job creation, and positioning Africa as a globally competitive destination. She highlighted the importance of strong partnerships with the private sector and local governments, stating, “We are committed to supporting the execution of innovative, fit-for-purpose trade shows that deliver real value for all delegates, whether they are buyers, exhibitors, or stakeholders across the tourism value chain.”

Johannesburg’s selection as the ongoing home of Meetings Africa underscores its status as a global city and a year-round leader in the travel market. According to Johannesburg Tourism Company Chairperson Nandipha Zonela, the city recorded 4.29 million arrivals and R69 billion in total tourism spend in 2024, reinforcing its role as the “heartbeat of Meetings Africa—where Africa connects.”

For Durban and the KwaZulu-Natal province, hosting Africa’s Travel Indaba is a significant opportunity to showcase the region’s strengths as both a business and leisure destination. KwaZulu-Natal’s MEC for Economic Development, Tourism and Environmental Affairs, Reverand Musa Zondi, noted that ATI offers “immeasurable opportunities for our emerging tourism entrepreneurs who can strike business deals that can propel their business to even greater heights.” The event also positions the province as a potential film destination, further diversifying its tourism appeal.

Both Meetings Africa and Africa’s Travel Indaba are expected to drive substantial benefits for the broader African travel sector. These events not only facilitate networking and deal-making but also serve as platforms for knowledge exchange, product launches, and the promotion of new destinations and experiences. Their continued success in Johannesburg and Durban will help sustain momentum in Africa’s tourism recovery and growth, while also encouraging innovation and investment across the continent.

Looking ahead, the five-year commitment to these host cities provides stability and a clear runway for long-term planning, marketing, and partnership development. For African travel professionals, this means greater certainty and more opportunities to engage with global buyers, showcase unique products, and tap into the latest trends shaping the industry.

As the continent continues to position itself as a top-tier destination for both business and leisure travelers, the role of flagship trade shows like Meetings Africa and Africa’s Travel Indaba will only grow in importance. Johannesburg and Durban’s successful bids ensure that Africa’s tourism industry remains firmly in the global spotlight, driving economic growth and fostering deeper connections across borders.