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SATTE 2025 kicks off at Yashobhoomi as India’s leading travel and tourism exhibition

The 32nd edition of SATTE, South Asia’s leading travel and tourism exhibition, was inaugurated today at Yashobhoomi, New Delhi, by esteemed dignitaries, prominently including Shri Gajendra Singh Shekhawat, Hon’ble Minister of Tourism & Culture, Government of India, and Smt. V. Vidyavathi, Tourism Secretary, Government of India. Under the theme “Tourism 2025: Fostering Global Collaboration for Mutual Growth,” SATTE 2025 brings together global industry leaders, policymakers, and stakeholders to shape the future of travel and tourism. The inaugural ceremony witnessed the presence of dignitaries such as Mr. Omar Abdullah, Chief Minister of Jammu & Kashmir; Mr. Rohan Khaunte, Hon’ble Minister for Tourism, IT and Printing & Stationery, Govt of Goa; Mr. Umid Shadiev, Hon’ble Minister of Tourism Uzbekistan; Mr. Kandula Durgesh, Hon’ble Minister for Tourism, Culture &​Cinematography, Government of Andhra Pradesh; Mr. Jakkaphon Tangsutthitham, Hon’ble Vice Minister, Ministry of Tourism and Sports, Thailand; Mr. Subhash Goyal, Chairman- STIC Group; Mr. Peter Hall, President, IMEA, Informa Markets, IMEA; Mr. Yogesh Mudras, Managing Director, Informa Markets in India and Ms. Pallavi Mehra, Sr Group Director- Informa Markets in India & Publisher- Travel Trends Today. Shri Gajendra Singh Shekhawat, Hon’ble Minister of Tourism & Culture, Government of India said, “It’s truly a remarkable moment as SATTE marks 32 years of bringing the travel and tourism community together and opening doors to new opportunities. Today’s energy and enthusiasm at SATTE reflect this vibrant sector’s incredible potential. We are committed to fostering new collaborations in the South Asia Pacific region, and SATTE plays a key role in driving this vision forward.” He further added, “India’s tourism story is evolving, we are no longer just a destination but a growing tourism market. The future holds immense promise, especially with the rise of MICE tourism, which calls for robust infrastructure across the country. In recent years, we’ve seen a significant increase in hotels, and the number of aircraft is expected to triple. The government is fully aligned with this growth, supporting states in developing 40 new destinations and encouraging unique tourism experiences nationwide. With domestic trade on the rise and people’s incomes growing, investments in tourism infrastructure will create a ripple effect across the economy. As we look ahead, with the sector projected to grow at a CAGR of 24%, I believe India’s tourism landscape is set for a transformative journey. I extend my heartfelt congratulations to everyone participating in SATTE 2025, together, let’s continue working towards a brighter future for tourism in India.” With over 2,000 exhibitors, participation from more than 50 countries, and representation from 28 state tourism boards, SATTE 2025 continues to serve as the region’s premier platform for industry networking, policy discussions, and business collaborations. This year, ‘Atithi,’ an exclusive buyer-seller meet in collaboration with the Services Export Promotion Council (SEPC), is once again a key highlight. The initiative will welcome 250 international buyers, offering them an immersive experience of India’s tourism potential. Another significant development at SATTE 2025 is the participation of the Indian Ports Authority, which is spotlighting the transformative Cruise Bharat Mission and the vast opportunities for cruise tourism along India’s coastline. Exhibitors include travel agents, tour operators, online travel platforms, airlines, hoteliers, and tourism boards.

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India Tourism Development Corporation Reports Strong Q3 FY 2024-25 Results

India Tourism Development Corporation reports strong Q3 FY 2024-25 results, earning over $1.7 million, reinforcing its role in India’s booming tourism sector. The India Tourism Development Corporation (ITDC), a premier public sector enterprise under the Ministry of Tourism, Government of India, has reported its financial results for the third quarter (Q3) of the fiscal year 2024-25. Reflecting its strong market position and continued focus on strategic growth, ITDC has posted a total revenue of INR 155.14 crores (1.7864 million USD) for Q3, marking a steady financial performance. The company’s Profit Before Tax (PBT) stood at INR 30.50 crores, while Profit After Tax (PAT) reached INR 21 crores, showcasing its ability to maintain profitability despite evolving market conditions. For the nine-month period ending December 31, 2024, ITDC reported a total revenue of INR 401.60 crores, with a PAT of INR 57.59 crores. This strong performance aligns with India’s growing focus on tourism-led economic development, a key agenda item in the Union Budget 2024-25, which has emphasized tourism as a major driver of employment and GDP growth. India’s Tourism Growth and ITDC’s Strategic Vision India’s tourism and hospitality industry has been witnessing a strong resurgence post-pandemic, fueled by increased domestic travel, international arrivals, and government-backed infrastructure projects. With tourism playing a crucial role in India’s economy, ITDC has been leveraging emerging opportunities to enhance its market presence and drive value across multiple segments, including: Luxury Hospitality & Hotel Operations Travel & Tourism Services Event Management & Conferences Duty-Free Operations at International Airports Heritage and Adventure Tourism Initiatives By diversifying its portfolio and adopting a forward-looking approach, ITDC aims to reinforce its leadership in the tourism sector, ensuring enhanced customer experiences, digital transformation, and service excellence. Union Budget’s Focus on Tourism: A Major Boost for ITDC The Union Budget 2024-25 has prioritized the growth of India’s tourism and hospitality sector, with increased allocations for tourism infrastructure, digital tourism initiatives, and skill development programs. This renewed push is expected to create new opportunities for public and private sector collaborations, driving investments in travel, accommodation, and related services. The government’s pro-tourism policies, including incentives for hotel and hospitality businesses, increased marketing efforts for “Incredible India” campaigns, and improved connectivity through regional airports and railway networks, have placed ITDC in a strong position to expand its offerings and cater to a growing traveler base. ITDC’s Commitment to Innovation and Sustainable Tourism With a clear focus on sustainable and technology-driven growth, ITDC is actively working on initiatives to: Enhance digital booking systems and AI-driven hospitality management Expand eco-tourism projects and responsible travel initiatives Improve heritage site management and cultural tourism programs Collaborate with state governments and private players for tourism expansion As India gears up for a new era of tourism-driven economic expansion, ITDC remains committed to driving innovation in hospitality, facilitating seamless travel experiences, and delivering world-class services.

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Travel and Tourism Fair Bengaluru 2025 Recognizes Karnataka Tourism’s Exceptional Pavilion

Karnataka Tourism has been honored with the prestigious Best Decoration Award at the Travel and Tourism Fair (TTF) Bengaluru 2025, held from February 13 to 15 at Tripuravasini, Palace Grounds. The esteemed event was inaugurated by Smt. Salma K Fahim, IAS, Secretary to the Government, Tourism Department, Government of Karnataka, along with Dr. Rajendra KV, IAS, Director, Department of Tourism, Government of Karnataka, who also serves as the Managing Director of Karnataka State Tourism Development Corporation (KSTDC). Following the main inauguration, Smt. Salma K Fahim officially launched the Karnataka Tourism pavilion, which attracted participation from 29 key stakeholders, including hospitality representatives and leading tour operators. Showcasing Karnataka’s Heritage and Natural Beauty The award-winning Karnataka Tourism pavilion stood out for its visually captivating and immersive representation of the state’s rich cultural heritage, diverse wildlife, and picturesque landscapes. It prominently featured UNESCO World Heritage Sites like Hampi and Pattadakal, alongside other historic and architectural marvels. Visitors were also introduced to Karnataka’s vibrant eco-tourism sector, with exhibits on its wildlife sanctuaries, national parks, and sustainable tourism initiatives. Engaging With Travel Industry Leaders Throughout TTF Bengaluru 2025, the Karnataka Tourism delegation engaged extensively with domestic and international tour operators, travel agents, and business stakeholders, fostering meaningful collaborations and future partnerships. The enthusiastic response from industry professionals and visitors underscored Karnataka’s growing reputation as one of India’s top travel destinations. TTF Bengaluru 2025: A Hub for Travel Innovation The Travel and Tourism Fair Bengaluru 2025 brought together exhibitors from diverse sectors of the travel industry, including national and international tourism boards, hospitality brands, airlines, and travel technology firms. The event served as a powerful platform for networking, business development, and tourism promotion, reaffirming Bengaluru’s status as a key travel hub in South India. With this latest recognition, Karnataka Tourism continues to strengthen its position as a leader in sustainable and cultural tourism, attracting travelers eager to explore the state’s historical wonders, scenic landscapes, and thriving hospitality sector.

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France Leads The Global Tourism Boom with Hundred Million Visitors

France leads the global tourism boom with Hundred million visitors as 2024 shatters records, while Spain, Italy, Greece, Portugal, Croatia, Japan, Thailand, and Brazil see unstoppable growth. France remains the world’s most visited country, setting a record-breaking milestone with 100 million international visitors in 2024. This historic achievement highlights the country’s everlasting appeal as a premier travel destination. Several factors contributed to France’s massive tourism influx: The “Olympic Effect” – The anticipation of the Paris 2024 Summer Olympics significantly boosted travel, drawing sports fans, media, and tourists. Notre Dame’s Reopening – The long-awaited reopening of the Notre Dame Cathedral following its devastating 2019 fire attracted millions of visitors eager to witness the restored monument. Normandy’s 80th Anniversary Celebrations – Commemorations of the D-Day landings brought history enthusiasts and veterans’ families to France in large numbers. Beyond these events, France’s iconic landmarks, vibrant cities, exquisite cuisine, and rich cultural heritage continue to attract millions of travelers. Spain’s Rapid Growth Puts It Close to Surpassing France Spain continues to gain ground as a global tourism leader, breaking its own record with 94 million visitors in 2024. This puts Spain on the path to possibly surpassing France in the coming years as the world’s top tourist destination. What’s fueling Spain’s success? Diverse attractions – From Barcelona’s Sagrada Familia to Madrid’s Prado Museum, Spain offers a mix of historical, artistic, and natural wonders. Sun and sand appeal – Coastal regions like Costa del Sol, Canary Islands, and Balearic Islands remain massive tourist draws. Gastronomy and culture – Spain’s culinary excellence, featuring tapas, paella, and world-class wines, continues to captivate travelers. A key metric where Spain already leads is tourist spending: Spain: €80 billion in tourism revenue in 2024. France: €71 billion in tourism revenue in 2024. Spain’s strong recovery post-pandemic and massive investments in tourism infrastructure make it a serious contender to overtake France as the top global destination within the decade. Southern Europe Sees Unprecedented Tourism Growth Italy: A Historic High with 65.8 Million Tourists Italy recorded a historic tourism surge, welcoming 65.8 million visitors in 2024. Top destinations included: Rome, Florence, and Venice – The Eternal City, Renaissance masterpieces, and the floating city remain evergreen tourist favorites. Sicily and Sardinia – Island getaways in Italy are experiencing increasing popularity, with more luxury travelers choosing these destinations. The Amalfi Coast – Renowned for its stunning coastline, it remains one of Europe’s most picturesque escapes. However, overtourism concerns are growing, with residents and local officials debating potential visitor caps to balance economic benefits with sustainable tourism.

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Amazing Thailand Amazes Middle East Travel Sector at Saudi Travel Market 2025

Hatsanai Chaisri, Marketing Manager – MEA, Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT), Dubai & Middle East Office, at Saudi Travel Market 2025 shared exclusive insights into Thailand’s significant growth in the Middle Eastern market, particularly from Saudi Arabia and the UAE. At Saudi Travel Market 2025, Hatsanai Chaisri, Marketing Manager – MEA, Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT), Dubai & Middle East Office highlighted Thailand’s diverse offerings, which cater to a range of tourists from luxury travelers and families to MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions) groups. He emphasized Thailand’s ongoing efforts to attract high-net-worth individuals with its premium resorts and unique experiences in Bangkok, Pattaya, and Phuket. Furthermore, Hatsanai Chaisri, Marketing Manager – MEA, Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT), Dubai & Middle East Office discussed the increasing importance of sustainability in Thailand’s tourism strategy. TAT encourages travelers to explore community-based tourism and promotes sustainable tourism providers. The Tourism Authority’s aim is to attract more visitors from the Middle East, ensuring a blend of luxury, adventure, and responsibility while maintaining eco-friendly practices. Introduction to Amazing Thailand’s Growth in the Middle East Thailand is well known for its rich cultural heritage, stunning beaches, and world-class hospitality. The country has always been a popular destination for travelers worldwide, but the Middle Eastern market, particularly Saudi Arabia and the UAE, has seen impressive growth in recent years. At Saudi Travel Market 2025, Hatsanai Chaisri, Marketing Manager – MEA, Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT), Dubai & Middle East Office, spoke exclusively with Travel and Tour World, sharing key insights into Thailand’s tourism expansion, the growing interest from the Middle East, and how Thailand is meeting the demands of travelers from this region. The Importance of Saudi Arabia in Thailand’s Tourism Strategy For Thailand, Saudi Arabia is one of the key markets in the Middle East. According to Hatsanai Chaisri, Marketing Manager – MEA, Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT), Dubai & Middle East Office the number of Saudi tourists visiting Thailand has been growing steadily. In 2024, more than 228,000 Saudis visited Thailand, making Saudi Arabia the top GCC market for Thailand. This growth represents an increase of 28% compared to the previous year, signaling a strong demand for Thailand among Saudi travelers.

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Korea Tourism Organization hosts roadshow in Mumbai

Korea Tourism Organization (KTO), in collaboration with the Outbound Tour Operators Association of India (OTOAI), successfully hosted the Korea Tourism Roadshow in Mumbai last week, reinforcing its commitment to the Indian travel trade and presenting key programmes aimed at further boosting Indian tourist arrivals to South Korea. Myong Kil Yun, Regional Director – India & SAARC Countries, KTO, said “South Korea’s growing popularity among Indian travellers is a testament to the strong partnership we share with the Indian travel trade. With evolving traveller preferences and increasing demand for unique experiences, we are committed to providing our partners with tailored support, from exclusive training programmes to performance-based incentives.” Talking about the roadshow in Mumbai, Himanshu Patil, President, OTOAI, said, “This partnership between OTOAI and KTO has the potential to significantly boost outbound tourism from India to Korea, unlocking opportunities for both travel operators and tourists. With the rising popularity of Korean entertainment in India and the increasing awareness of the country’s rich cultural heritage and unique culinary experiences, Indian tourists are showing greater interest in visiting Korea. Additionally, the growing popularity of Korean beauty products in the Indian market has led to an increase in enquiries for tours that include beauty experiences, further highlighting the diverse interests of Indian travellers. This roadshow was a great opportunity for our members to gain in-depth knowledge of Korea and enhancing their ability to create seamless travel experiences for their clients.” In addition to the MICE Support and Korea Premium Travel Consultant (KPTC) Program, KTO has unveiled the Designated Travel Agency Program, a strategic initiative under the K-Incentive Scheme 3.0, designed to recognise and support travel agencies actively promoting South Korea. Under this programme, participating agencies will develop Korea-specific travel packages incorporating at least one local city beyond Seoul, such as Busan, Gangwon-do, Jeollanam-do, or Jeollabuk-do. Travel agents must submit a detailed proposal outlining their itinerary, marketing plan, and visa facilitation strategy. Selected agencies will receive direct visa support, promotional assistance, and exclusive rewards. Top-performing agencies will be rewarded based on their overall sales performance, with special recognition at the end of the year.

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