Travel Technology delivers real-time insights on booking platform innovations, AI-powered concierge services, mobile check-in solutions, VR destination tours, contactless payments and emerging digital travel trends to enhance every journey.
The United Arab Emirates has expanded its Digital Tourist VAT Refund System to approximately 19,340 retail outlets, giving international visitors wider access to faster and more convenient tax-free shopping services. The total was recorded at the end of June 2026 and represents a 5.9 percent increase from around 18,260 connected outlets during the same period
Ryanair has extended its long-standing technology partnership with Amazon Web Services for another five years, strengthening its use of cloud computing and artificial intelligence across customer service, flight operations and employee systems. The renewed agreement will support Ryanair as it manages a fleet of 647 aircraft and approximately 3,900 daily flights. It will also provide
Swiss hospitality company SNUUG has unveiled its SupernatureHotel concept, introducing a new model of premium accommodation designed to bring travelers closer to nature while limiting environmental impact. The concept combines contemporary Swiss design, upscale comfort and temporary accommodation in carefully selected natural environments. SNUUG is preparing to welcome its first guests in 2026, supported by
Tourism New Zealand has launched a series of artificial intelligence workshops to help tourism operators improve digital visibility, strengthen destination discovery and increase booking opportunities. The workshops were held in Auckland, Rotorua, Queenstown and Christchurch, with an additional online session for businesses unable to attend in person. They focused on how AI is changing the
Thailand-based Minor Hotels is strengthening its global hospitality operations through Oracle Hospitality’s OPERA Cloud platform, supporting more efficient hotel management and smoother experiences for international travelers. The digital transformation will help the hospitality group connect hotel operations, reservation systems, guest information and service teams across its expanding international network. It also creates a stronger technology
A new travel resale economy is giving unused flights, hotel stays and holiday packages a second chance as travellers search for ways to recover money from trips they can no longer take. Platforms such as SpareFare connect people holding eligible non-refundable reservations with buyers seeking discounted travel opportunities. The concept applies the familiar second-hand marketplace
Romania’s varied landscapes are changing how travellers choose vehicles for long-distance journeys across the country. A single road trip can include motorway driving, historic towns, rural villages, mountain passes and remote natural attractions. Therefore, the most suitable vehicle is not always the largest or most powerful model. Comfort, fuel efficiency, safety technology, luggage capacity and
Africa’s tourism economy is entering a new phase of digital development with the launch of the Africa Tourism Pass, known as APASS, a blockchain-enabled platform designed to connect travellers, tourism operators and technology providers. TourFi Inc., a wholly owned subsidiary of Abba Industries Inc., introduced the platform as a verification, incentive and participation layer for
France’s road-trip experience is changing as electric cars and hybrid SUVs become increasingly practical options for visitors exploring the country’s cities, coastlines, mountains and rural regions. Cleaner-transport policies, expanding charging infrastructure and urban emission controls are influencing which vehicles travellers choose. The shift is particularly important for international visitors planning journeys that combine motorways, historic
Saudi Arabia is strengthening its global tourism ambitions through a partnership with Mastercard focused on digital technology, traveller insights and data-led destination planning. The collaboration will support the Saudi Tourism Authority as it works to attract more visitors from established and emerging international markets. Mastercard’s analytical capabilities will help tourism planners understand spending patterns, visitor
Argentina’s Tren Solar de la Quebrada is transforming tourism across Jujuy Province by combining renewable energy, advanced rail technology and easier access to the UNESCO-listed Quebrada de Humahuaca. Recognised as Latin America’s first solar-electric passenger train, the service offers travellers a cleaner and quieter way to explore one of South America’s most culturally significant landscapes.
The International Air Transport Association has introduced an updated Airline Payment Framework to help carriers transform payments from a back-office process into a strategic driver of revenue, customer experience and financial performance. Published as the Airline Payment Framework–Management Foundation, the initiative gives airline management teams a structured approach to payment strategy, governance, technology, risk, settlement
