DURBAN STEPS UP: A MAGICAL SEASON AWAITS YOU
Durban is rolling out the red carpet for travellers as it takes bold steps to revitalise tourism and ensure a safer, more magical experience for all.
In collaboration with South African Tourism, the Provincial Tourism and Film Authority, and private sector partners, the City is proud to spearhead the “Tourism Takes the Lead Roadshow” on 4 December. Under the theme “Exploring Durban’s Travel Adventures Together,” this initiative highlights Durban’s readiness to dazzle visitors during the summer and festive seasons.
To reimagine Durban as a premier destination, the City has worked tirelessly to address past challenges and elevate its attractions. Improvements include stabilised beach water quality, fully operational swimming pools, a robust safety strategy, and upgraded maintenance standards.
This campaign signals a renewed Durban – a city bursting with life, stunning coastlines, and warm hospitality. This festive season promises an “Endless Wave of Tranquillity” with diverse events and activities that cater to all.
To enhance safety and convenience, the Metro Police, alongside law enforcement agencies, are ensuring high visibility at key tourist hotspots. Measures include access-controlled roads, a free park-and-ride system, and the deployment of 500 newly trained Metro Police officers with over 170 high-performance vehicles. Additionally, the City is partnering with the National Prosecuting Authority to address crimes targeting tourists, aligning with Durban’s vision of a smart and secure city.
With 21 pristine beaches open and 30 public swimming pools available, the City will closely monitor water quality throughout the festive season, ensuring visitors enjoy Durban’s sparkling coastline to the fullest.
From Umhlanga’s festive buzz to Florida Road’s vibrant scene, Durban’s December calendar features a host a plenitude signature events, including the Durban Jazz Festival and the much-anticipated Fact Durban Rocks New Year’s Eve celebration.
The summer season is set to deliver an economic boost, 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 – translating to more than 11,000 new jobs.
Adding to the excitement, Durban celebrated the opening of the Durban Beach Café on 22 November, a stunning new addition to the city’s vibrant beachfront attractions.
The festivities continue with the arrival of the MSC Euribia, heralding the start of the 2024/25 cruise season followed by the MSC Musica, bringing a wave of international visitors to Durban’s shores “We are excited to welcome thousands of international travellers to the City,” said eThekwini Mayor Councillor Cyril Xaba”. We invite you to rediscover the magic of Durban, support local businesses, and become an ambassador for this extraordinary city.
“For many South Africans and international visitors, the city of Durban and the greater Kwa Zulu-Natal have always been attractive and iconic. We are here today to continue creating that desire and to remind all visitors to the city that there is lots to explore here.
Durban and indeed the rest of the country, is ready to receive an influx of travellers who are seeking to create memorable experiences,” said Thembi Sehloho, Chief Marketing Officer at South African Tourism.
For updates and event details, visit www.visitdurban.travel or follow us on social media @DBNTourism.
Let’s make this season unforgettable – Durban is ready to welcome you!
