SAACI 2026 Conference Delivers Huge Partnerships and Major Investment Boost for Durban

 

By Fred Felton | Aug. 5, 2026

The Southern African Association for the Conference Industry (SAACI) 2026 National Annual Conference has just finished at The Capital Zimbali with a huge success, bringing together South Africa’s business events leaders in a powerful show of innovation and collaboration.

The SAACI 2026 National Annual Conference inspired the business events industry with a renewed commitment to collaborate, driving the future of South Africa's MICE sector and creating lasting economic impact. Photo: Supplied. 

The conference was held over three days and reinforced Durban’s standing as Africa’s premier Meetings, Incentives, Conferences and Exhibitions (MICE) destination by showcasing world-class infrastructure, authentic hospitality, and a thriving tourism economy.

Durban’s world-class business events infrastructure, hospitality, and tourism offerings were put on show for delegates through a programme of industry discussions, networking opportunities and destination experiences.

One of the key highlights was Southern Sun Elangeni & Maharani’s announcement of a R250 million phased refurbishment, which started on 27 July 2026. For the next three years, both hotel towers will be transformed through redesigned guest rooms, upgraded public spaces, and enhanced facilities, further strengthening Durban’s tourism and hospitality offering.

‘’Such conferences are powerful drivers of investment, tourism growth, innovation, and job creation. We are proud to have showcased Durban’s exceptional hospitality and business events offering while welcoming continued investment from partners such as Southern Sun,’’ said Durban Tourism Deputy Head Winile Mntungwa.

Mntungwa noted the City’s commitment to consolidating Durban’s position as Africa’s leading MICE destination.

The conference ended with a renewed pledge from industry stakeholders to continue building partnerships, driving innovation, and growing South Africa’s business events industry.

City Unveils Easter Plans

 

By Fred Felton | Apr. 17, 2025

The time over Easter is set to be a memorable experience for all in Durban with a mix of adventure and relaxation for everyone.

EThekwini Mayor Councillor Cyril Xaba unpacks the City's Easter and Holiday Season Campaign.  Photo: Thuli Dlamini. 

A few days ago eThekwini Municipality revealed its Easter and Winter campaign themed ‘’Endless Fun Season’’. Tourism stakeholders were treated to a trip around Durban with stops at various tourist attractions including PheZulu Safari Park and the new Westown Square Shopping Mall.

Durban has a wide range of attractions from world-class shopping malls, vibrant markets, wonderful waterfalls and safari experiences.

It is estimated that around 1.3 million visitors will descend on the City over the Easter holiday while the hospitality industry is expected to see hotel occupancy rates at 63 percent, which is an increase from last year’s 50 percent.

There is also expected to be a boost for the local economy with direct spending estimated at around R2.5 billion and a GDP contribution of around R6.1 billion, with 11 000 employment opportunities created over this time.

Westown Square was a hive of activity as the City launched Easter Plans. | Photo: Fred Felton.

According to eThekwini Mayor Councillor Cyril Xaba this campaign is being done so that the City can highlight Durban’s rich tourism attractions, to make sure visitors explore more adventures, cuisine, attractions, and experiences.

‘’We want to assure our visitors both locally and internationally, that we are ready to deliver a safe and enjoyable holiday. Security measures have been put in place with a safety and security plan developed by the Metro Police and stakeholders to ensure visibility at all key tourism attractions,’’ said Mayor Xaba.

Last week the City rolled out its programme of rejuvenating the inner city precinct to deliver a safer, cleaner, and greener Durban. This programme has a wide range of services including deployment of professional security teams, armed patrol units, and rapid response squads.

Mayor Xaba said this landmark initiative marks a significant step forward in enhancing the quality of life of residents, businesses and visitors while boosting the local economy.

Durban has also received nominations in the World Travel Awards for various categories including Africa’s Leading Festival and Events Destination. There are several signature events lined up for visitors including the Joyous Celebration Easter Mega Fest, One-Man Show Concert, eThekwini Surf Pro and the Durban International Marathon.

You can also expect activations in Amanzimtoti, Shongweni, uMhlanga, Inanda, and the Beachfront.

‘’As the ultimate holiday destination, Durban is offering an opportunity to unwind and explore the fun and diverse attractions as we usher in the Winter season,’’ said Mayor Xaba.

For ideas on what to do in Durban go to www.visitdurban.travel or follow @DBNTourism on social media.

The 'Best Ever' Africa Travel Indaba Planned

 

By Fred Felton | Feb. 20, 2025

The plans for the 2025 Africa Travel Indaba have been unveiled by Durban Tourism with a bold vision for the success of Africa’s largest trade and tourism event.

Africa's Travel Indaba happens from 12 to 15 May this year. | Photo: Fred Felton

The proposed programme for the event was presented by Durban Tourism Regional Marketing Manager Melusi Khumalo to the City’s Economic Development and Planning Committee for their recommendation.

During the presentation she highlighted that preparations are already in full swing for this flagship event. Africa’s Travel Indaba happens from 12 to 15 May at the Inkosi Albert Luthuli International Convention Centre.

At the committee meeting which was held on 13 February, Khumalo noted that 2025 marks the City’s final contractual year hosting the Indaba, taking note of the importance of this event to secure future bids.

‘’We aim to pull out all the stops to host the best-ever Indaba to ensure Durban becomes the permanent home of this prestigious event,’’ said Khumalo.

The Africa Travel Indaba is a crucial platform for showcasing Africa’s tourism offerings and engaging with the global trade, while also boosting local tourism.

Khumalo also shared last year’s impressive statistics which included 1 200 exhibitors, 9 217 delegates, 1 737 buyers and participants from 75 countries.

Exhibitor registrations are now open for exhibitors who would like to showcase their products and network with those in the tourism industry.

For registration and more info, please visit www.indaba-southafrica.co.za

A Magical Season Awaits You in Durban

 

By Fred Felton | Dec. 9, 2024

The red carpet is being rolled out for tourists visiting Durban. The City aims to boost tourism and ensure a safer, more magical experience for everyone.

Durban is ready to welcome you! | Photo: Supplied. 

The eThekwini Municipality in collaboration with South African Tourism, the Provincial Tourism and Film Authority, and various private sector partners went on a roadshow around Durban on the ‘’Tourism Takes the Lead Roadshow,’’ on 4 December. This was done under the theme ‘’Exploring Durban’s Travel Adventures Together,’’ this highlighted Durban’s readiness for visitors during the summer and festive time.

EThekwini Municipality has worked to improve its attractions. The improvements include a more stable beach water quality, swimming pools that are fully operational, a safer city strategy and improved maintenance standards.

There is so much to do in Durban including a ride on the Rickshaw Bus, a visit to Mitchell Park, enjoying the party scene at Florida Road, Segway Rides along the promenade, Gondola Rides and Rickshaw rides.

Segway Rides. One of the many things to do in Durban. | Photo: Supplied. 

The Metro Police, along with law enforcement agencies, making sure of high visibility at key tourist hotspots. There will also be access-controlled roads, a free park-and-ride system, and 500 newly trained Metro Police officers are being deployed and 170 high performance vehicles will be patrolling Durban to make sure visitors are safe.

At present there are 21 immaculate beaches open and 30 public swimming pools open, eThekwini Municipality will also monitor water quality throughout the festive season, making sure visitors enjoy Durban’s pristine beaches.

The Cube on Innes Road, Morningside. Features panoramic views of Durban. | Photo: Fred Felton. 

Visitors can also look forward to many events this festive season including the Durban Jazz Festival and the eagerly awaited Fact Durban Rocks New Year’s Eve celebration. There is always a festive buzz in Umhlanga and Florida Road has entertainment day and night.

‘’Florida Road is one of our vibrant culinary experiences,’’ noted Durban Tourism Deputy Head, Winile Mntungwa.

There will also be an economic boost this summer season, with projections for 2024/2025 estimating over 1.3 million visitors, a 75% occupancy rate, R2.5 billion in direct spending, and R6.3 billion added to GDP – which translates to more than 11,000 new jobs.

A new attraction on the beachfront is the Durban Beach Café which was opened on 22 November this year.

The festivities continued this year when the MSC Euribia visited Durban recently which announced the start of the 2024/2025 cruise season. The MSC Musica also brought a wave of international visitors to Durban recently. ‘’We are excited to welcome thousands of international travellers to the City,’’ noted eThekwini Mayor Councillor Cyril Xaba.

For more info visit: www.visitdurban.travel or follow them on social media @DBNTourism

Take a Southern Sun Break in Durban

 

By Fred Felton | Nov. 5, 2024

Southern Sun has partnered with Durban Tourism as it once again cements a long-term investment in the City through a summer holiday activation aimed at bringing more tourists back to Durban and making the city South Africa’s top holiday attraction.

Southern Sun and Durban Tourism have partnered to promote Durban. | Photo: Supplied. 

Southern Sun and Durban Tourism are clearly dedicated to promoting South Africa’s beloved coastal hotspot, they are also aiming to rekindle excitement in this region which is full of diversity and must see destinations. There are convenient flights by South African Airways (SAA) from all the major cities in SA to Durban’s King Shaka International Airport which makes it very easy for tourists to reach the city’s well known attractions and beaches.

Durban has many beautiful beaches, a pulsing energy, plenty of historical sights, family-friendly things to do and a wide variety of accommodation within Durban. There is so much to offer in the City for local and international travellers.

The chandelier at the reception of The Edward. | Photo: Fred Felton

There are a wide variety of Southern Sun hotels in Durban so you have plenty of options. Along the Golden Mile some of their best hotels include The Edward which has that old world charm and is filled with pictures of Durban a long time ago. The hotel features a variety of room offerings and the presidential suite will certainly take your breath away. The hotel features sumptuous meal offerings from any type of Durban Curry to meat, fish and chicken dishes, desserts to die for and delicious drinks to cool you down after your beach swim.

A hotel room at the Southern Sun Elangeni & Maharani. | Photo: Fred Felton. 

Further down the Golden Mile you will find the Southern Sun Elangeni & Maharani where you have a wide variety of options of where you would like to stay. There are various options with beautiful sea views that show you all that Durban has to offer. This hotel also features many conference options for business travellers and for those that like to party the Sky Venue at the Maharani, features spectacular views.

The Grill Jichana serves Beef Fillet with pepper sauce along with shoestring fries, comes with onion rings and vegetables. | Photo: Fred Felton

For a tasty dinner try The Grill Jichana which is in the Elangeni. The Beef Fillet and the Lamb Shank are highly recommended. When you wake up in the morning, try out Vigour &Verve in the Maharani for a delicious breakfast. Their omelette is highly recommended. Here you can find any type of breakfast under the sun from fresh fruit to yogurts, eggs and bacon, sausages, muffins, pastries and so much more. There is of course plenty of fresh juices and most importantly coffee and cappuccino to get you ready for your big day out.

uShaka Marine World. | Photo: Fred Felton.

Dick King Statue. | Photo: Fred Felton

Segway Rides. | Photo: Fred Felton. 

If you prefer the finer things in life head further north to uMhlanga Rocks and there you will find the Beverly Hills where you can find fine dining, high teas, spectacular sea views and easy access to the uMhlanga Rocks promenade where you can walk each morning or afternoon. This hotel features the utmost luxury, hospitality and exceptional service. Here you can find complimentary unlimited Wi-Fi, 24-hour in-room dining service, gym, a spa and more. The hotel is also the perfect spot for meetings and events. For dining try The Sugar Club and for cocktails head to Elements Café Bar. You can also pop by their Lounge & Vista Terrace for tea & coffee, the Vista Terrace is also perfect for dolphin spotting.

Beverly Hills Balcony Views. | Photo: Fred Felton. 

‘’Southern Sun’s legacy in the Durban region spans over five decades, and it’s a heritage we hold with pride. We remain fully committed to the growth and success of this beautiful region,’’ said Samantha Croft, Southern Sun’s Durban Region Operations Director.

Roasted Butternut and Feta Quiche at Beverly Hills. | Photo: Fred Felton. 

Start packing your bags for your next trip to Durban this summer, with Southern Sun’s SunBreaks Summer offer. You can enjoy relaxing on the beach, explore Durban and have some quality time with the family this December or January.

If you are looking for places to explore in Durban try out uShaka Marine World for a snorkelling experience that will take your breath away or why not try some Shark Cage Diving if you dare. They also have fun slides and an Aquarium. You can also book a Segway Ride at Moses Mabhida Stadium and enjoy scenic views of the beachfront.  Other options include the Rickshaw bus which takes you on an informative bus tour around Durban and you can even take a Rickshaw ride on the beachfront.  

‘’Our long-standing partnership with Southern Sun is built on a shared goal – promoting Durban as South Africa’s top holiday destination,’’ noted Winile Mntungwa, Deputy Head of Durban Tourism.

Beverly Hills Cappuccino. | Photo: Fred Felton. 

This partnership between Southern Sun and Durban Tourism underscores not only the importance of collaboration in boosting local tourism but also the commitment to providing visitors, with unforgettable experiences in Durban. Whether you’re seeking adventure, relaxation, or cultural exploration, Durban promises to deliver an enriching holiday experience.

For more information visit: https://www.southernsun.com and https://visitdurban.travel

Southern Sun Social Media

Instagram @southernsunhotels

X: @SouthernSunGrp

Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/SouthernSunHotels/

Durban Tourism

Instagram - @dbntourism

X - @dbntourism

Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/DBNTourism

SAA Social Media

Instagram - @flysaa

X - @flysaa

Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/FlySAA

Durban launches endless waves of tranquility summer campaign

 

NONDUDUZO NGCONGO

THE City is the place to be this summer. And to further position Durban as a destination of choice, eThekwini Mayor Councillor Cyril Xaba unveiled the City’s summer campaign ‘Endless waves of tranquillity’ on 11 September.

EThekwini Mayor Councillor Cyril Xaba unveiled the City's summer campaign on 11 September at the Coastal Beach Resort. Mayor Xaba said projections indicate over 1,3 million visitors will flock to the City during the 2024/25 summer season. | Picture: THULI DLAMINI. 

The launch took place at the Coastal Beach Resort that overlooks Umgababa Beach, which is considered one of the City’s tourism hidden gems.

Addressing the media and industry stakeholders, Mayor Xaba said such campaigns are crucial in marketing destination Durban. He said the launch will kickstart a series of destination promotion roadshows on digital platforms and through media to ensure the message reaches a wider audience.

“The campaign aims to unpack our festive season plans including holiday packages and safety measures that will be implemented. We encourage tourists to start booking their summer holidays in Durban. Through this campaign we want to ensure an increase in the projected number of visitors to Durban.”

Picture: THULI DLAMINI.

Mayor Xaba revealed that projections indicate over Durban launches endless waves of tranquillity summer campaign 1.3 million visitors will flock to eThekwini during the 2024/25 summer season.

“An occupancy rate of more than 65 percent is estimated. The direct spend is expected to be around R2.5 million contributing approximately R6.3 million to the GDP, while creating about 11 423 employment opportunities. Tourism is one sector which has a multiplier effect on the economy. This is one of the main reasons we fully support tourism promotion initiatives,” he added.

This, said Mayor Xaba, is testament that the City continues to support employment creation in the tourism sector. He cited the Coastal Beach Resort as an example, saying the establishment started in 2015 as a Shisanyama and by 2021 had developed into a fully-fledged resort offering 25 accommodation rooms, a restaurant, lounge, pool and was an events venue for hire. He said the resort has created 11 employment opportunities.

Destination promotion activations that Durban Tourism will be embarking on were also unpacked during the launch. This includes route development discussions for Zambia and Zimbabwe taking place from 12 to 16 September, an international tourism trade show in Europe from 16 to 20 September, and market roadshows taking place across Gauteng from 19 to 22 September.

Issues of safety and security were also highlighted to reassure visitors and residents that their safety is a priority. Mayor Xaba highlighted the progress of smart policing explaining how the City will use technology to proactively prevent crime.

During the launch, attendees experienced some of the activities offered at the resort such as horse riding along the beachfront. Nearby tourism offerings were also highlighted such as shark diving, Splash Waterworld, deep sea fishing, African Watersports Aliwal and more.

The upcoming Blue Economy Week, from 24 to 28 September, activation was also held on the day. The week aims to showcase coastal and ocean resources and activities to promote economic growth.

Enter the Durban Tourism Business Awards

 

By Fred Felton | Dec. 13, 2022

The Durban Tourism Business Awards are now open for entry and those in the tourism and hospitality industry are encouraged to enter.

The Durban Tourism Business Awards are now open for entry. | Photo: Fred Felton 

The awards are presented by Durban Tourism and they have proved a huge success in promoting excellence and innovation within the tourism industry. The awards also market the various tourism gems throughout the City.

The 2^nd edition of these awards will be held on 15 June 2023. Awards on offer include cash and development options for winners and runners-up.

You can enter the 2^nd annual Durban Tourism Business Awards online at https://www.durbantourismawards.com/

There are various categories for the awards and they include:

Upcoming Filmmakers Award

This award is aimed at rewarding those upcoming and outstanding people and organisations that have produced, written a script, or directed films in the past five years that have showcased Durban in their film or documentary, or advert.

Service Excellence Award

This includes awards in various sectors including:

The Accommodation Award for bed and breakfasts, country houses and guest houses, hotels, lodges and self-catering units.

MESE Award (this is for Meetings, Exhibitions and Special Events venues).

Visitor Experiences Award which will include scenic beauty, adventure and activities, wildlife, lifestyle, beach experience, luxury and restaurants.

Tourist Guides Award which will include adventure, nature and culture guides.

Tour Operators Award

Rickshaw Pullers Award

Crafters Award

Event Organisers and Promoters Award that brings international events to Durban and package their events with other tourism products.

Sustainable Development Award

This award is aimed at green tourism-based products that have adhered to the impact of climate change and have placed emphasis on the environmental impact and green sustainable solutions in their businesses.

Entrepreneurship Award

This award will recognise black-owned small, medium and micro enterprises that have achieved success since beginning their tourism establishments.

Special Achievement Award (Mayor’s Choice)

This award will recognise tourism products that have proven to be long-lasting.

The Durban Tourism Business Awards close for entries on 14 January 2023.

For more information, visit www.durbantourismawards.com or follow Durban Tourism on social media @DBNTourism you can also email: info@durbantourismawards.com or call 031 322 4164.

 

Durban Tourism Joined Tsogo Sun Hotels in Cleaning the Beachfront

 

By Fred Felton | Feb. 19, 2022

The hospitality sector of the City of Durban teamed up with Tsogo Sun Hotels and those in the tourism industry to help clean up the beachfront on 18 February 2022.

Durban Tourism and staff and guests of Tsogo Sun Hotels helped to clean-up the Durban Beachfront on 18 February 2022. | Image: Durban Tourism 

This project was also aimed at assisting the Childhood Cancer Foundation South Africa (CHOC) with its fundraising drive to assist children with cancer.

This campaign was supported by Durban Tourism and it saw in the region of 10 hotels that are situated on the Durban beachfront and Umhlanga beachfront team together to help clean up their part of the beachfront.

Durban Tourism supported the clean-up campaign of Tsogo Sun Hotels in Durban on Friday. | Image: Durban Tourism 

‘’This collaboration is a big deal to Durban Tourism as Tsogo Sun is the biggest accommodation group in Durban. The significance of this action as private sector in their own accord deciding to add beach clean-up into their initiative demonstrates their support to Municipality service delivery. It also sends a message that as big tourism stakeholders, keeping the City clean protects tourism as the second biggest economic contributor to the Durban economy,’’ said Melusi Khumalo, Regional Marketing Manager for Durban Tourism.

The clean-up was also used to assist the Flip Flop Friday programme on Friday, 18 February 2022. This raised much-needed funds for CHOC. Hotel staff and guests of the various hotels participated and help with the fundraising by purchasing flip flops for R10 so that they could wear them during the beach clean-up.

‘’This is a good campaign because the drains won’t get blocked anymore. I always throw my litter in the bin,’’ said local Addington Beach resident Cindy Polydorou.

The hotels that took part in this clean-up include Garden Court South Beach, The Edward, Garden Court Marine Parade, Southern Sun Elangeni and Maharani, Suncoast Towers and Sun Square Suncoast, The Beverly Hills, Garden Court uMhlanga, Cabana Beach Resort and uMhlanga Sands Resort.

‘’Let us work together to make eThekwini the most liveable city by 2030,’’ said eThekwini Municipality Mayor, Councillor Mxolisi Kaunda.