Tumodo, a leading online business travel platform, has released key insights into the evolving landscape of business travel in the MENA region, emphasizing the growing significance of strategic routes, particularly between London and Dubai.
In 2023, the region welcomed a record 86.9 million international arrivals, highlighting a robust increase in travel demand.
Notably, Tumodo's platform reports that 10% of tickets sold last year catered specifically to business travelers. London is emerging as a premier business destination for MENA professionals, with 2% of one-way tickets booked indicating a preference for flexible trip durations. The average cost for a round trip between London and Dubai stands at £570.
The data further reveals a strong inclination among UAE employees, with 64% planning to undertake business trips, underscoring the importance of the London-Dubai route. A rising trend called "bleisure"—combining business travel with leisure activities—has gained traction, with nearly 30% of Web Summit attendees extending their trips for leisure. In the MENA region, 25% of IT professionals and 75% of men under 35 engage in bleisure activities.
Tumodo's AI-powered travel management software addresses the evolving needs of modern business travelers, with 91% stating they would decline trips conflicting with their preferences. The platform offers flexibility, instilling confidence in its adaptability to unforeseen circumstances.
"Recognizing London and Dubai as leading business routes underscores our commitment to supporting the region's economic development,"
said Stan Klyuy, Chief Commercial Officer of Tumodo. With a 420% increase in relocation inquiries to the UAE from British nationals and a growing interest in 'move to Dubai,' the future of MENA's business travel market looks promising.
