Sydney’s hospitality landscape is set to experience a major transformation with the announcement of the AC Hotel by Marriott Sydney Hyde Metropolitan. Slated to open in late 2027, this stylish property, a collaboration between Deicorp, Trilogy Hotels, and Marriott International, will introduce 104 elegant guest rooms located within the Hyde Metropolitan mixed-use development. The hotel’s prime location in the heart of Sydney’s Central Business District (CBD) makes it the perfect base for both business and leisure travelers.
A Modern, Design-Led Hotel in Sydney’s Vibrant CBD
The new AC Hotel Sydney Hyde Metropolitan will be housed in the Hyde Metropolitan tower, designed by the renowned Candalepas Associates, an architecture firm known for its modern yet timeless designs. With the hotel located on the lower levels of this luxury tower, guests will experience refined interiors, with an emphasis on simplicity, elegance, and a relaxed atmosphere. AC Hotels by Marriott is recognized for its design-forward approach, creating spaces that balance modern aesthetics with comfort.
The hotel will feature a design that draws inspiration from Sydney’s cultural and architectural history, seamlessly blending contemporary luxury with traditional elements. The spacious, light-filled guest rooms will provide a peaceful retreat for visitors, offering modern amenities in a stylish, inviting environment.
A Prime Location to Explore Sydney’s Attractions
AC Hotel by Marriott Sydney Hyde Metropolitan will offer guests the perfect vantage point to explore Sydney’s cultural landmarks, iconic attractions, and vibrant neighborhoods. Located just steps from Hyde Park, one of Sydney’s most famous green spaces, the hotel will offer easy access to local parks, museums, galleries, and shops.
Guests will be within walking distance of Museum Station, providing quick access to the city’s top cultural sites, including the Art Gallery of New South Wales, Australian Museum, and The Royal Botanic Garden. The hotel is also close to the bustling shopping area of Pitt Street Mall and the upscale Westfield Sydney, making it an ideal location for both sightseeing and shopping.
For those interested in Sydney’s famous harbor, Circular Quay and The Rocks are just a short distance away, offering easy access to the Sydney Opera House and Sydney Harbour Bridge. The hotel’s central location ensures that all of Sydney’s main attractions are within reach, making it an excellent base for exploring the city.
Dining, Wellness, and Events at AC Hotel Sydney Hyde Metropolitan
Guests at the AC Hotel Sydney Hyde Metropolitan will be treated to a range of dining and wellness options designed to enhance their stay. The hotel will feature a signature ground-floor restaurant offering a variety of culinary delights, with a focus on both local and international flavors. In addition, the hotel will boast a Skybar on the rooftop, where guests can enjoy panoramic views of Sydney’s skyline and Hyde Park. The rooftop venue will offer a stylish setting for enjoying drinks, socializing, or simply taking in the breathtaking views of the city.
For guests seeking to relax or stay active during their visit, the hotel will offer a fitness center equipped with modern equipment. Additionally, there will be meeting spaces available for business events or social gatherings, ensuring that the hotel caters to both corporate and leisure guests.
Elevating Sydney’s Hospitality Sector with a Strong Partnership
The AC Hotel Sydney Hyde Metropolitan represents a strategic partnership between Deicorp, a leading real estate developer in Australia, Trilogy Hotels, an experienced hotel management firm, and Marriott International, a global leader in hospitality. This collaboration underscores a shared commitment to delivering world-class accommodations and exceptional service in Sydney’s competitive hotel market.
With the addition of this new hotel, Marriott International continues to expand its presence in Australia, particularly with the AC Hotels brand. This brand has seen rapid growth worldwide, known for providing a premium yet approachable hotel experience that blends stylish design with comfort and high-quality service. AC Hotel Sydney Hyde Metropolitan will contribute significantly to the evolution of Sydney’s hospitality landscape, offering a unique destination for both international and local visitors.
A Bright Future for Sydney’s Hospitality Market
The opening of the AC Hotel by Marriott Sydney Hyde Metropolitan in 2027 is set to elevate Sydney’s position as one of the most sought-after destinations in the world. With its central location, luxurious amenities, and contemporary design, the hotel promises to offer a refined and stylish stay for guests visiting Sydney for business, leisure, or both.
This new hotel will also play a key role in meeting the growing demand for high-quality accommodations in Sydney. As the city continues to attract tourists and business travelers from around the globe, the AC Hotel brand will provide a fresh and dynamic experience, ensuring that Sydney remains one of the world’s most iconic and attractive cities to visit.
Nigeria, along with Ghana, Zimbabwe, Kenya, Ethiopia, Somalia, Sudan, Chad, and over thirty other African nations, is grappling with significant challenges due to the U.S. visa freeze and travel ban. These restrictions have disrupted immigration and travel opportunities, but many are turning to a crucial loophole for a chance to secure seamless entry into the U.S. Despite the widespread travel ban, this loophole allows individuals to bypass some of the restrictions by leveraging specific exemptions or grandfather clauses. These measures provide a pathway for travelers with existing valid visas to continue their journey without disruption. This article explores how these countries are navigating these travel challenges, the loopholes that provide some relief, and what travelers need to know about the evolving U.S. visa landscape.
The Role of the Grandfather Clause in US Travel Bans
The grandfather clause in U.S. travel bans has played a pivotal role in protecting individuals from the retroactive impact of newly enacted entry restrictions. Although the term “grandfather clause” was never explicitly used in official proclamations, key exemptions built around this concept have been integral to Trump-era travel bans. These clauses provided exemptions for individuals who met certain conditions before the effective date of the ban. Key examples of how these grandfather clauses operated include:
Executive Order 13780 (March 6, 2017): A grandfather clause allowed individuals holding valid visas at the time of the order’s implementation to still enter the U.S. without being affected by the ban.
Supreme Court Ruling (June 26, 2017): The Court introduced the “bona fide relationship” standard, acting as a relationship-based grandfather clause. This exempted individuals with close family ties, or employment or academic connections, from the ban.
Expanded Family Definition (July 2017): The US government initially excluded grandparents, cousins, and other extended family members. However, after a legal challenge, the definition was expanded to include these family members, further protecting refugees with US ties.
These grandfather clauses were designed to mitigate the disruption caused by travel bans, ensuring individuals with established US connections were not unfairly impacted by new restrictions.
Full and Partial U.S. Visa Restrictions as of January 2026
In January 2026, the U.S. Department of State enacted a combination of full and partial visa restrictions under Presidential Proclamation 10998 to enhance national security and immigration controls. These restrictions apply to countries based on their immigration and security concerns.
Full Restrictions: These countries face a complete suspension of both immigrant and non-immigrant visa issuances, including tourist (B), student (F and M), and exchange visitor (J) visas. The full restrictions impact Iran, Syria, Libya, Yemen, and others.
Partial Restrictions: For nationals of 19 countries, including Angola, Antigua and Barbuda, Benin, Burundi, Côte d’Ivoire, Cuba, Dominica, Gabon, The Gambia, Malawi, Mauritania, Nigeria, Senegal, Tanzania, Togo, Tonga, Venezuela, Zambia, and Zimbabwe, only immigrant visa issuance is suspended, along with B, F, M, and J non-immigrant visas. This suspension does not affect other categories like diplomatic visas, and certain individuals may still qualify for exceptions.
Additionally, Turkmenistan had its restrictions partially lifted, with non-immigrant visa issuance restored, although the suspension of immigrant visa processing remains in effect.
Nigeria: Navigating the Partial Ban with the Grandfather Clause
Nigeria is facing a partial U.S. travel ban, which restricts immigrant visa issuance while still allowing certain non-immigrant visas such as B-1/B-2 (tourist) and F-1 (student) visas. The grandfather clause offers crucial relief for those with existing visas, allowing them to continue traveling without disruption. However, this provision does not fully shield Nigerian nationals from the consequences of the travel ban. The 48% drop in student visa applications is a direct impact of the visa restrictions, affecting over 21,850 Nigerian students. In addition, the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) has placed an “adjudicative hold” on immigration benefits for Nigerians, further delaying the processing of visas and other immigration-related applications. Despite these challenges, the grandfather clause allows those with valid visas to maintain their status and travel as planned. However, new applicants continue to face significant delays in obtaining visas, particularly with the uncertainty of processing times and appointment availability.
Grandfather Clause helps protect current visa holders from the ban.
Student visa applications dropped by 48%.
USCIS adjudicative hold affects immigration benefits processing.
New applicants face delays in visa approvals.
Ghana: Adjusting to Shortened Visa Validity and F-1 Application Drop
Ghana has not been fully banned under the U.S. travel restrictions, but the shortened visa validity for various categories — especially F-1 (student) visas — is causing significant challenges. Visa validity has been slashed to just three months, significantly impacting long-term travel planning for Ghanaians seeking U.S. visas. The grandfather clause offers a lifeline for individuals who hold valid visas before the implementation of the restrictions, exempting them from the new rules. However, this has resulted in a 51% drop in F-1 visa applications, as students are uncertain about the implications of the reduced visa validity. Additionally, Ghana’s visa system has adopted a two-tier structure, with older visa holders enjoying more favorable conditions, while new applicants are subject to the shortened validity period and longer processing times. This has created significant delays, especially for students who were planning to travel for academic purposes, and many are finding it harder to secure timely visa appointments.
Shortened visa validity affects F-1 applicants.
Grandfather clause protects existing visa holders.
51% drop in F-1 visa applications.
New applicants face delays and a two-tier system.
Zimbabwe: Partial Ban and Tourism VAT Impact
Zimbabwe is under a partial U.S. travel ban, which impacts immigrant visas but leaves non-immigrant visas like B-1/B-2 (tourist) and F-1 (student) visas open for processing. The grandfather clause provides significant relief for Zimbabwean nationals who already hold valid U.S. visas, ensuring they can travel without disruption. However, new applicants face obstacles, particularly due to the 15.5% tourism VAT imposed by the Zimbabwean government, which raises the cost of international travel for Zimbabweans. Although the grandfather clause protects existing visa holders, it does not resolve the financial burden that the new VAT imposes on potential travelers. Additionally, while tourist and business visas remain available, the backlog of applicants at consular posts continues to delay processing. The grandfather clause allows Zimbabweans to continue traveling on valid visas, but the tourism VAT creates additional challenges for new travelers, making it more difficult for Zimbabwean nationals to secure travel funds and make plans.
Grandfather clause protects existing visa holders from the ban.
Tourism VAT increases travel costs for Zimbabweans.
Non-immigrant visas like B-1/B-2 remain available.
Existing visa holders can travel without disruptions.
Kenya: Caught in the Immigrant Visa Freeze, but No Full Ban
Kenya is not on the list for a full U.S. travel ban, but its nationals are affected by the 75-country immigrant visa freeze, which prevents Kenyan citizens from applying for immigrant visas. The grandfather clause protects those with valid visas, allowing them to continue their travel and stay in the U.S. without issues. However, the immigrant visa freeze impacts many Kenyan nationals in the diaspora, especially those seeking to bring their families to the U.S. The 130,000+ Kenyan diaspora is particularly affected, as they face delays in securing family reunification visas. While non-immigrant visas, such as tourist and student visas, remain unaffected, the grandfather clause allows those who have already obtained their visas to travel as planned. This provision is particularly important for the large number of Kenyan students and workers who may already have established ties with the U.S. Even though the immigrant visa freeze limits the ability to reunite with family or secure long-term residency, the grandfather clause provides a safety net for those with existing immigration benefits or valid travel documents.
Immigrant visa freeze affects 130,000+ Kenyan nationals.
Grandfather clause protects current visa holders.
No full ban, but delays persist for immigrant visa applicants.
Family reunification is delayed due to the freeze.
Ethiopia: Visa Validity Reduced and TPS Expiring
Ethiopia’s nationals face reduced visa validity, affecting various visa categories, including tourist (B-1/B-2) and student (F-1) visas. The grandfather clause allows those who already hold valid visas to continue traveling without facing the new restrictions. However, Ethiopia’s Temporary Protected Status (TPS) is set to expire in February 2026, adding additional uncertainty. Over 278,000 Ethiopian nationals are affected by these changes, as their ability to apply for new visas or extend their current status is limited. The grandfather clause provides protection for those who have already secured visas or are in the U.S. legally, but those applying for new visas face significant delays and complications, particularly with the looming expiration of TPS. Ethiopian nationals are caught in a challenging situation, as the grandfather clause offers limited relief for future visa applicants.
TPS expiring in February 2026 adds uncertainty.
Grandfather clause protects existing visa holders.
Visa validity reduced for new applicants.
Over 278,000 Ethiopians affected by the restrictions.
Somalia: Full Ban with Limited Family Reunification Exemptions
Somalia remains under a full U.S. travel ban since 2017, with only limited exemptions for certain individuals. The grandfather clause offers some protection for those who were already in the U.S. or held valid visas before the ban was implemented. However, the ban severely limits the ability of Somali nationals to travel to the U.S., especially since family reunification exemptions were eliminated under the latest travel ban. While the grandfather clause allows those with existing visas to maintain their status, it does not significantly ease the travel restrictions for future applicants. Somali nationals are among the most severely affected, as the grandfather clause provides only minimal relief in the face of the full ban and the lack of family-based visa options. Somali nationals must navigate a highly restricted visa process, where even existing visa holders face challenges with consular services and long wait times, given the diplomatic tensions and limited processing capacity in Somalia.
Full ban limits travel for Somali nationals.
Grandfather clause protects existing visa holders.
Family reunification exemptions eliminated for Somalis.
Limited consular services further complicate travel plans.
Sudan: Full Ban and Severe Impact from Civil War
Sudan faces the most severe cumulative impact under the U.S. travel ban, with a full ban in place and the additional complications of ongoing civil war. The grandfather clause offers some protection for Sudanese nationals who were already in the U.S. or held valid visas before the ban was imposed. However, the civil war has severely disrupted Sudanese nationals’ ability to secure travel documents, making it difficult for them to even access consular services. The grandfather clause allows those already in the U.S. to remain without facing deportation, but for new applicants, the situation is dire. With disrupted consular operations and the instability in Sudan, Sudanese nationals are among the most disadvantaged, with limited opportunities to travel to the U.S. The grandfather clause provides some relief but does not alleviate the broader geopolitical and logistical issues affecting Sudanese nationals.
Full ban severely impacts Sudanese nationals.
Grandfather clause offers protection for existing visa holders.
Civil war makes consular access difficult.
Limited opportunities for new applicants to travel.
Chad: Full Ban and Diplomatic Tensions Impacting Travel
Chad is subject to a full U.S. travel ban, which severely restricts the ability of its nationals to enter the United States. The grandfather clause offers limited relief for those who already hold valid visas or are already in the U.S., allowing them to maintain their status without further disruption. However, for those outside the U.S., the ban effectively prevents them from applying for most U.S. visas, including immigrant visas and non-immigrant visas. Chad’s diplomatic relationship with the U.S. has been historically strained, contributing to the prolonged restrictions on travel. While the grandfather clause helps those already in the U.S., the full travel ban continues to prevent Chadian nationals from being able to reunite with family members or visit the U.S. for business or tourism. Moreover, applicants who had hoped to apply for a visa have been left with limited options, as consular access remains restricted. The grandfather clause does not significantly ease the challenges faced by new applicants in Chad, leaving them in limbo with no clear pathway to U.S. entry.
Full ban severely restricts travel for Chadian nationals.
Grandfather clause protects existing visa holders.
Diplomatic tensions with the U.S. contribute to the ongoing ban.
Limited consular access leaves new applicants with few options.
Grandfather Clauses in the December 2025 and January 2026 U.S. Travel Bans
The December 2025 and January 2026 U.S. travel bans, which targeted several countries with either full or partial visa restrictions, included important grandfather clauses to protect individuals who had pre-existing rights or status in the U.S. These provisions ensured that individuals who met certain criteria would not be subjected to the new restrictions. According to the grandfather clause, the ban applied only to nationals who were outside the U.S. as of the effective dates — December 2025 and January 2026 — and did not hold a valid U.S. visa. The key exemptions under the grandfather clause included:
Valid visa holders: Individuals holding a valid visa as of the effective date were exempt from the ban.
Physical presence in the U.S.: Those who were already physically present in the U.S. were exempt from the restrictions.
Green card holders: Lawful permanent residents were fully exempt from the travel ban.
Dual nationals: Those traveling on passports from non-restricted countries were exempt from the restrictions.
Immediate family immigrants: Spouses, minor children, and parents of U.S. citizens could still obtain visas under the grandfather clause.
Adoption visas: Holders of IR-3, IR-4, IH-3, and IH-4 visas were exempt.
Afghan SIV holders: Special Immigrant Visa applicants who had assisted the U.S. government were also exempt.
Athletes/coaches: Individuals traveling for major sporting events like the World Cup or Olympics were exempt.
Refugees/asylees: Those who had already been admitted as refugees or granted asylum were also exempt from the ban.
These provisions were critical in mitigating the disruptions caused by the travel bans, ensuring that individuals with established U.S. connections were not unfairly impacted by the newly imposed restrictions.
Impact of US Travel Restrictions on African Nations: Breakdown by Restriction Type
As of 2026, a total of 39 African nations are impacted by varying levels of U.S. travel restrictions, with some countries facing full bans and others experiencing partial restrictions or immigrant visa freezes. The restrictions are categorized into three main types: Full Travel Ban, Partial Travel Ban, and Immigrant Visa Freeze.
Full Travel Ban (12 countries): These nations face a complete suspension of entry, meaning that both tourist and immigrant visas are effectively unavailable. The countries on this list include Burkina Faso, Chad, Republic of the Congo, Equatorial Guinea, Eritrea, Libya, Mali, Niger, Sierra Leone, Somalia, South Sudan, and Sudan.
Partial Travel Ban & Immigrant Visa Freeze (27 countries): These nations face a combination of restricted tourist travel and an indefinite pause on immigrant visas. The Partial Ban + Freeze includes countries like Angola, Benin, Burundi, Côte d’Ivoire, Gabon, The Gambia, Malawi, Mauritania, Nigeria, Senegal, Tanzania, Togo, Zambia, and Zimbabwe. Meanwhile, Freeze Only countries, such as Algeria, Cameroon, Cape Verde, Egypt, Ethiopia, Ghana, Guinea, and Morocco, are specifically subject to a suspension of new Green Card applications.
The reasons behind these policies are primarily vetting and security concerns, with the U.S. government citing deficiencies in screening and information-sharing from certain countries. Additionally, the Immigrant Visa Freeze targets nations deemed high risk for public charge concerns, with the U.S. claiming that these countries may rely too heavily on public welfare benefits. However, these restrictions apply primarily to individuals outside the U.S. who did not have a valid visa before January 1, 2026. Green Card holders and dual nationals using passports from non-banned countries are generally exempt.
This complex web of travel restrictions significantly impacts tourism and immigration patterns between Africa and the U.S., causing delays and uncertainties for many travelers.
Nigeria, along with Ghana, Zimbabwe, Kenya, Ethiopia, Somalia, Sudan, Chad, and over 30 other African countries, faces a visa freeze and travel ban. However, a crucial loophole allows some travelers to secure seamless entry to the U.S. despite these restrictions.
Conclusion
Nigeria, along with Ghana, Zimbabwe, Kenya, Ethiopia, Somalia, Sudan, Chad, and over thirty other African countries, continues to cope with the challenges posed by the U.S. visa freeze and travel ban. Despite these restrictions, many individuals are finding ways to secure seamless entry to the U.S. by utilizing specific loopholes or exemptions. These provisions offer some relief, allowing travelers with existing valid visas or particular circumstances to bypass some of the restrictions. While the broader visa freeze and travel bans remain in place, these measures provide a critical path forward for those affected, ensuring that they can still pursue their travel and immigration goals despite the challenging circumstances.
Egypt is now alongside South Africa, Morocco, Ethiopia, Seychelles, Tunisia, Eswatini, and other African countries, driving Africa’s dominance in world tourism with an impressive surge in tourist arrivals. This remarkable growth highlights Africa’s increasing global appeal, particularly as more countries across the continent see higher visitor numbers year after year. Egypt‘s rise, fueled by its rich historical and cultural offerings, positions the country as a major force in the African tourism sector. The increase in arrivals is also reflective of the continent’s broader appeal, driven by its diverse landscapes, cultural heritage, and newly improved infrastructure. This surge is contributing to Africa’s economic growth and reinforcing its importance on the global tourism map, making the region an increasingly attractive destination for travelers worldwide.
IATA 2026 Aviation Forecast: Africa vs. Global
Based on the IATA 2026 African Media Roundtable report, Africa is showing strong growth in passenger traffic, outpacing the global average with a forecasted growth rate of 6.0%. While passenger traffic growth is leading globally, African airlines continue to face structural challenges that suppress profitability. The region is experiencing higher operating costs in key areas such as fuel prices, taxes, and air navigation charges, all of which contribute to a lower net profit margin of 1.3%, compared to the global average of 3.9%.
Furthermore, Africa is significantly affected by blocked funds, with the region accounting for 79% of the world’s blocked airline funds, a major barrier to financial sustainability. Despite these challenges, Africa’s 20-year growth rate of 4.1% remains the third fastest globally, positioning the region as a key player in the future of the aviation industry.
Egypt: Unveiling a 20% Surge in Ancient Wonders and Modern Luxuries
Egypt has seen an impressive 20% increase in tourist arrivals, solidifying its position as one of Africa’s top travel destinations. The country’s iconic historical landmarks such as the Great Pyramids of Giza, the Sphinx, and the ancient temples of Luxor continue to captivate tourists from around the world. Egypt’s unique ability to blend its ancient heritage with modern luxury makes it a compelling destination for a wide range of travelers. The coastal resorts along the Red Sea, including Sharm El Sheikh, Hurghada, and Marsa Alam, offer world-class diving and snorkeling opportunities, attracting both adventure tourists and those seeking relaxation. The recent development of new tourism infrastructure, such as luxury hotels, resorts, and improved transport links, has enhanced the country’s appeal. Additionally, the Grand Egyptian Museum, expected to open near the Giza Pyramids, promises to be a major cultural attraction, expected to increase the number of visitors even further. Furthermore, Egypt’s government has taken measures to improve security, boost tourism campaigns, and enhance facilities for tourists, contributing to the rapid growth in arrivals. The rise in tourist numbers underscores Egypt’s ongoing efforts to revitalize its tourism sector, ensuring that the country continues to be a major player in global tourism.
South Africa: A 19% Growth Amidst Stunning Landscapes and Cultural Riches
South Africa has experienced a 19% growth in tourism, thanks to its diverse landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and world-class wildlife experiences. From the iconic Table Mountain in Cape Town to the expansive Kruger National Park, South Africa offers an unparalleled range of natural wonders that appeal to both adventure seekers and luxury travelers. The country’s wildlife is a major draw, with the “Big Five”—lions, elephants, buffaloes, leopards, and rhinoceroses—making it one of the best safari destinations in the world. The scenic coastal regions, such as the Western Cape and Garden Route, attract travelers seeking beautiful beaches and outdoor adventure. South Africa’s wine-producing regions, like Stellenbosch and Paarl, are also famous, offering travelers a taste of its rich wine culture. The country’s history and culture are equally fascinating, with the vibrant city of Johannesburg and the historic sites of Robben Island and Soweto offering unique insights into its past. Investment in tourism infrastructure, including new airports, roads, and accommodations, has made traveling more accessible. Additionally, the government’s commitment to sustainable tourism practices, coupled with efforts to promote local culture, wildlife conservation, and community engagement, continues to drive the country’s tourism growth. South Africa remains a top choice for travelers seeking a blend of natural beauty, rich history, and diverse experiences.
Ethiopia: 15% Growth as the Cradle of Civilization Beckons Travelers
Ethiopia has experienced a 15% increase in tourist arrivals, driven by its rich historical significance and unique cultural offerings. Known as the “Cradle of Civilization,” Ethiopia is home to some of the world’s most ancient sites, including the rock-hewn churches of Lalibela, which are considered one of the most impressive architectural feats in history. Additionally, the city of Aksum, once the capital of the ancient Kingdom of Aksum, boasts remarkable obelisks and archaeological ruins. Ethiopia’s landscape is just as diverse and stunning, from the Simien Mountains and their rugged peaks to the vast Great Rift Valley, home to beautiful lakes, wildlife, and unique ecosystems. The country’s historical and cultural heritage, coupled with its growing ecotourism sector, continues to draw visitors seeking immersive travel experiences. Ethiopia is also renowned for its coffee, considered the birthplace of the coffee plant, and the opportunity to experience traditional coffee ceremonies is a highlight for many travelers. Government efforts to develop infrastructure and promote destinations like the Danakil Depression—one of the hottest and most unique places on Earth—have contributed to increased tourist interest. Ethiopia’s growing tourism sector is creating jobs and boosting the economy, while its rich history and culture continue to attract global travelers who seek both adventure and historical exploration.
Morocco: 14% Growth with a Perfect Blend of History and Adventure
Morocco has seen a 14% increase in tourist arrivals, driven by its diverse landscapes, fascinating history, and vibrant culture. The country’s rich blend of Arab, Berber, and French influences creates a unique cultural tapestry that captivates visitors. Cities like Marrakech, Fes, and Casablanca offer stunning architecture, bustling souks, and rich culinary traditions, making them popular destinations for travelers seeking culture, shopping, and history. Morocco’s majestic Atlas Mountains and the vast Sahara Desert provide a haven for adventure seekers, offering trekking, camel rides, and desert camping. The coastal areas, including Essaouira and Agadir, attract those looking for beautiful beaches and a more relaxed pace of life. The country has made significant investments in its tourism infrastructure, including new resorts, luxury hotels, and improved transport systems, which have made it easier for visitors to explore both well-known and off-the-beaten-path destinations. Morocco is also becoming a hub for adventure tourism, from hiking in the Atlas Mountains to surfing on its Atlantic coastline. Furthermore, the government’s emphasis on promoting sustainable tourism and preserving Morocco’s cultural and natural heritage has added to its appeal. As a result, Morocco continues to see strong growth in its tourism sector, attracting millions of visitors annually, all eager to experience the country’s rich history, landscapes, and unique blend of cultures.
Seychelles: 13% Surge in the Ultimate Island Escape
Seychelles, the idyllic archipelago in the Indian Ocean, has experienced a 13% rise in tourist arrivals, establishing itself as a premier luxury travel destination. Known for its stunning beaches, crystal-clear waters, and lush tropical forests, Seychelles attracts honeymooners, nature lovers, and those seeking an exclusive escape. The country’s emphasis on eco-tourism and preserving its fragile environment has played a crucial role in its rise as a top destination. The islands offer some of the most pristine beaches in the world, such as Anse Source d’Argent, where visitors can relax on powdery white sands surrounded by granite boulders. Seychelles is also home to abundant wildlife, including the famous giant Aldabra tortoises and a rich marine life, making it a popular destination for diving and snorkeling. The country has also built a reputation for offering private, luxury resorts on secluded islands, further enhancing its appeal to high-end travelers seeking privacy and tranquility. As one of the few countries in the world that has managed to balance tourism growth with environmental sustainability, Seychelles has garnered international recognition. The government’s commitment to preserving its natural heritage while enhancing tourism infrastructure ensures that Seychelles remains a top destination for travelers seeking relaxation, adventure, and unparalleled natural beauty.
Tunisia: 10% Growth with a Rich History and Mediterranean Charms
Tunisia has experienced a 10% increase in tourism, driven by its rich cultural history, Mediterranean coastline, and budget-friendly appeal. As a crossroads of civilizations, Tunisia is home to remarkable historical sites such as the ancient ruins of Carthage, the amphitheater of El Djem, and the Medina of Tunis, a UNESCO World Heritage site. These cultural treasures attract history enthusiasts and travelers interested in exploring the remnants of the Roman Empire and ancient Arab culture. Tunisia’s long Mediterranean coastline, with its beautiful beaches and resorts in places like Hammamet and Djerba, offers a combination of relaxation and water sports. Tunisia’s affordability makes it a popular choice for both European travelers seeking a quick getaway and those looking for cultural immersion without breaking the bank. In addition, the country’s improving safety measures, along with an increasing number of international flights, have boosted its tourism appeal. The Tunisian government has invested in modernizing infrastructure, including new airports and hotels, to accommodate growing numbers of tourists. Efforts to promote eco-tourism, alongside a renewed focus on heritage preservation, have further enhanced the country’s image as a diverse and accessible tourist destination. Tunisia’s blend of historical allure, Mediterranean beauty, and affordability makes it a top destination for those seeking a mix of culture, relaxation, and adventure.
Sierra Leone: 10% Growth as Africa’s Hidden Gem Emerges
Sierra Leone has experienced a 10% increase in tourism, marking it as one of the fastest-growing destinations in West Africa. The country’s natural beauty, from pristine beaches along the Atlantic coast to lush tropical forests and wildlife reserves, has increasingly caught the attention of international travelers. Sierra Leone’s eco-tourism offerings, including the Gola Rainforest National Park, provide opportunities to explore its rich biodiversity, including rare species like the pygmy hippo. The country’s rich cultural heritage, seen in places like Freetown—the capital known for its historical significance in the transatlantic slave trade—also attracts those interested in African history and culture. In addition to eco-tourism, Sierra Leone is gaining recognition for its adventure tourism opportunities, including hiking, bird watching, and community-based tourism experiences. Sierra Leone’s government has worked to improve tourism infrastructure and create a more favorable investment climate for the tourism industry. These efforts have led to the expansion of eco-friendly lodges, resorts, and improved transportation networks, making it easier for tourists to explore the country. As a result, the country’s tourism sector has grown, with more visitors coming to experience the unique landscapes, culture, and hospitality of Sierra Leone. Despite challenges, the growth of the tourism sector is proving to be a significant driver of the country’s economic development.
Eswatini: 9% Growth as the Kingdom of Culture Welcomes Travelers
Eswatini, the small kingdom in Southern Africa, has seen a 9% increase in tourist arrivals, driven by its natural beauty and rich cultural heritage. Known for its unique cultural festivals, including the Umhlanga (Reed Dance) and Incwala, Eswatini offers a truly immersive cultural experience for travelers seeking to explore authentic African traditions. The country’s diverse landscapes, from the majestic Malolotja Nature Reserve to the lush Ezulwini Valley, appeal to nature lovers and adventure enthusiasts. Eswatini’s wildlife reserves, such as Hlane Royal National Park and Mkhaya Game Reserve, provide opportunities for visitors to see Africa’s famous wildlife up close, including elephants, lions, and rhinos. The kingdom’s relatively small size and ease of access from neighboring South Africa have made it a popular stop for travelers seeking a more tranquil and authentic African experience. The government has invested in expanding tourism infrastructure, including new hotels, lodges, and transport services, to enhance the country’s appeal. Additionally, Eswatini’s commitment to sustainable tourism and community-based initiatives ensures that tourism development benefits both the environment and local communities. With its captivating mix of culture, nature, and wildlife, Eswatini continues to grow as a desirable destination for those seeking an off-the-beaten-path African experience.
Dismantling Travel Barriers within Africa: Visa-Free and e-Visa Trends
One of the most positive trends highlighted in the IATA 2026 report is the significant progress being made in dismantling travel barriers within Africa. In 2016, only 20% of travel scenarios within the continent were visa-free, but by 2026, this percentage is projected to rise to 28%. The number of countries offering e-visas has also surged from 17% to an estimated 48% across 26 countries, making it easier for African citizens to travel within the region. Furthermore, a landmark achievement in the past decade is the introduction of full visa-free travel to all Africans in five countries, including Benin, The Gambia, Rwanda, Seychelles, and Ghana. These developments are creating a more open and connected Africa, encouraging regional mobility and facilitating economic growth.
Metric
2016 Status
2026 Status
Visa-Free Travel Scenarios
20%
28%
Countries Offering e-Visas
17%
~48% (26 countries)
Full Visa-Free (to all Africans)
0 Countries
5 Countries
Countries
Benin, The Gambia, Rwanda, Seychelles, and Ghana
Egypt joins South Africa, Morocco, Ethiopia, Seychelles, Tunisia, Eswatini, and other African countries in driving Africa’s dominance in world tourism with the highest surge in tourist arrivals last year, showcasing the continent’s growing global appeal.
Conclusion
Egypt has joined South Africa, Morocco, Ethiopia, Seychelles, Tunisia, Eswatini, and other African countries in propelling Africa’s dominance in world tourism with the highest surge in tourist arrivals last year. This impressive growth reflects the continent’s increasing appeal as a diverse and rich travel destination. With Egypt’s historic attractions and new tourism developments, along with the ongoing rise of other African nations, the region continues to solidify its place as a major player in the global tourism industry. As these countries build on their unique cultural, natural, and historical offerings, Africa’s tourism sector is poised for even greater growth, contributing to the continent’s economic development and reinforcing its position on the world stage.
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