Tourism sectors focus on AI integration and seasonal diversification

The Manipal Academy of Higher Education (MAHE) celebrated World Tourism Day 2026 by focusing on the theme “Digital Agenda and Artificial Intelligence to Redesign Tourism.” The event highlighted how digital technologies and AI are transforming tourism services and engagement. During the program, Vice Chancellor Dr. Sharath K. Rao emphasized the need to embrace technological progress while maintaining the cultural and human aspects of travel. MAHE also launched a new web portal for internationalization and a dedicated international football team to foster cross-cultural connections among students.

In Cyprus, Hermes Airports is working to reduce the country’s dependence on peak summer tourism by promoting year-round travel. At the Tourism Seasonality Summit in Italy, the airport operator discussed strategies to strengthen connectivity during quieter periods. Proposed initiatives include developing inland and rural tourism, gastronomy, sporting events, and conference tourism to move beyond the traditional “sun-and-sea” model. Data indicates that winter traffic already accounts for more than a quarter of Cyprus’ total passenger traffic, and AI is being utilized to analyze travel data and identify emerging niche markets.