eThekwini Municipality said that Durban has intensified its efforts to position itself as a leading destination for business and leisure tourism.
eThekwini Municipality spokesperson Gugu Sisilana said that the municipality has participated in prominent international trade shows such as ITB Berlin, Seatrade Cruise Global, and World Travel Market over the past six months.
“Our strategic approach involves hosting esteemed events like Africa Travel Indaba, Durban International Film Festival, Hollywoodbets Durban July, and Comrades Marathon to draw international visitors.”
Sisilana added that they cultivate robust partnerships with travel trade operators to craft appealing packages and ensure seamless inbound travel experiences.
“Moreover, we prioritise visitor safety and security through collaborative efforts with law enforcement agencies, implementing initiatives that create a welcoming and secure environment.
This financial year, we have a series of targeted trade shows lined up to showcase Durban's distinctive attractions and appeal to even more international visitors.”
Sisilana said that In terms of direct connectivity, Durban Tourism is part of an integrated Route Development Committee.
“This encompasses a diverse range of stakeholders including Dube Tradeport, EDTEA, TKZN, TIKZN, Ezemvelo, ACSA, and SAT. ”
“The collective objective for the committee is to advocate for direct flights to Durban.
“Through collaborative efforts, the committee identifies strategic platforms to promote investment and destination marketing, fostering growth and economic prosperity for the region in terms of visitor numbers and investment.”
Sisilana added that the City also conducts trade and road shows in key source markets in line with their visitor marketing strategy.
“We are working closely with tour operators to secure good relationships and create attractive inbound travel packages. While we have not yet attained our desired level of international visitor arrivals, we acknowledge that the pandemic-related closures of hotels and tourist attractions have contributed to this shortfall, leading visitors to explore alternative destinations.”
Sisilana said that they were proactively rebuilding and revitalising tourism infrastructure to reclaim Durban’s status as a premier tourist destination and restore its allure for international visitors.
The Mercury