The business travel market in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region is on track to reach $270.8 billion by 2030, driven by a robust annual growth rate of 8.3% between 2025 and 2030, according to a new report from business travel platform Tumodo. This surge reflects the region’s strong post-pandemic recovery, growing demand for seamless travel solutions, and strategic infrastructure investments.
During the first quarter of 2025, business travel in MENA surged by 50% compared to the same period in 2024, signaling renewed corporate confidence and a rapidly evolving travel landscape.
Travel Trends and Top Destinations
As global markets stabilize, business travel patterns across MENA are being reshaped. China emerged as the top international destination for MENA business travelers, accounting for 25% of outbound trips. This is followed by the UAE (13%), Saudi Arabia (5%), India (4%), the UK (3.5%), with France and Germany each representing 3%.
Dubai continues to be a key regional hub, with high-frequency connections to Guangzhou and Seoul, while Riyadh, Cairo, and Doha are experiencing rising business traffic, fueled by major infrastructure development.
Hospitality: High-End Preferences on the Rise
The MENA hospitality market, valued at $286.06 billion in 2024, is projected to grow to $487.36 billion by 2032, at a CAGR of 6.67%. Tumodo reports that four-star hotels lead business bookings at 45%, while five-star accommodations have grown to 20%, indicating a preference for premium stays. Three-star hotels and budget accommodations each account for 15% of bookings.
Luxury hotel bookings rose by an impressive 145% year-over-year during Ramadan 2025, as business travelers sought premium experiences while on the move.
Sustainability and Smart Travel Solutions
Sustainability is becoming a core pillar of corporate travel strategy. Tumodo supports the UAE Environment Vision 2030, promoting eco-conscious choices through its AI-powered platform, which helps companies minimize their environmental footprint by recommending sustainable routes and accommodations.
“Our platform reduces policy violations from 60% to just 4%, while optimizing budgets and boosting sustainability,” said Stan Klyuy, Chief Commercial Officer at Tumodo. “We’re helping businesses align efficiency with climate goals in an increasingly complex travel environment.”
Bleisure Travel Gains Ground
An emerging trend is the growth of “bleisure” travel, where business trips are extended for leisure. The average business trip duration now stands at 10 days, approaching pre-pandemic levels, while room rates have increased by 10%, averaging $160 per night.
With business hubs like Dubai, Riyadh, and Cairo attracting more traffic and innovation driving the digitalization of travel management, MENA is quickly establishing itself as a global center for business mobility.
Source: EconomyMiddleEast.com
