Please read in conjunction with - Selling Africa in 2025: A Financial Guide for Travel Agents

Special Considerations for UAE-Based Travel Agents: Selling to International and Local Clients

For UAE-based travel agents, Africa represents one of the most profitable outbound markets in 2025. With Emirates serving 25+ African destinations and Etihad expanding rapidly, launching new routes to Addis Ababa and Zanzibar, plus doubling flights to Nairobi from December, access and connectivity are better than ever.

Dubai alone contributes a growing share of outbound leisure travel to Africa, mainly driven by expatriate families seeking short breaks, UAE nationals pursuing safari and beach combinations, and the growing corporate travel link between Dubai, Johannesburg, and Nairobi.

Why Africa Sales Matter for UAE Agents

UAE-based agencies have a unique position: they can source directly from African DMCs while marketing to both expatriate and GCC clients, often earning higher margins than international competitors. But multi-currency settlements, regional taxation, and supplier reliability make financial discipline essential.

Practical Tips for UAE Agents

• Supplier Relationships: Build direct connections with Africa-based DMCs such as Thompsons Africa or Intrepid DMC to secure stronger commissions and reduce reliance on overseas intermediaries.

• Currency Management: Quote in AED for local clients but settle in USD when paying suppliers to simplify reconciliation. Using platforms like Wise or Revolut can reduce bank conversion costs by 2–3%.

• Client Segmentation: UAE residents often prefer curated, mid- to high-end packages so tailor options such as “Luxury Safari & Zanzibar Escape” or “Cape Town and Garden Route Discovery,” focusing on convenience and value rather than lowest price.

• VAT Awareness: UAE agents registered for VAT can reclaim business input tax on marketing and supplier expenses that support outbound sales, improving profitability compared to foreign agents.

• Sustainability Appeal: Promote eco-certified lodges and conservation-driven travel, which resonate strongly with UAE’s focus on sustainable tourism and the ongoing Year of Sustainability initiatives.

Antravia’s Support for UAE Agents

Through Antravia’s UAE insights platform, we support local travel agents with practical guidance on supplier relationships, VAT compliance, and regional opportunities. Our deep familiarity with the Dubai market helps agents increase profitability while staying aligned with local regulations.

👉 Ready to boost your Africa sales? Contact Antravia UAE for a free consultation.

This article by Antravia is general information, not advice. Regulations evolve quickly (especially CT, QFZP, and excise). Verify key positions against the primary sources below or with a locally licensed advisor.