South Africa wants to revive tourism and attract visitors from India by introducing visa reforms, air connectivity, and stronger marketing. Ismail Dockrat, Chief Operating Officer, South African Tourism, reportedly said that India is a huge market for the upcoming 2027 Cricket World Cup. There is added focus on MICE, Tier II cities and emerging travel segments.

About 4,000 Indian travellers in June marked a near 40 percent decline year-on-year. H1 arrivals fell around 31 percent to about 26,000.

He said South Africa faces stiff competition, and India's marketing needs a stronger proposition. The visa process is a key issue. The new Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA), essentially a digital visa, makes it easier for Indian travellers to visit South Africa.

Also, Indian travellers have to connect through Nairobi, Addis Ababa, or Middle Eastern hubs. There are discussions to revive direct flights.

The 2027 Cricket World Cup in September will require targeted marketing with offers for extended stays to boost tourism.

South Africa, like other countries, needs greater visibility in India. This will be done through a higher marketing budget, with a strong focus on digital platforms targeting millennials and Gen Z.

It is felt that marketing must be expanded to Tier II markets of Jaipur, Ahmedabad, Hyderabad, Chennai, Lucknow, and Pune. 

The target is 100,000 Indian travellers in 2026.