Global Scans · Travel · Weekly Summary

WHAT'S NEXT?: How we travel, where we travel and whether we travel at all will mean tremendous change in the decades ahead.

• [New] Russia is quietly testing a new plasma propulsion system that, if it performs as claimed, could dramatically change how long it takes to travel to Mars. Yahoo Tech
• [New] With the launch of Etihad Rail passenger train services, the national rail network is expected to deliver wide-ranging benefits, including: enhance tourism, supporting mobility, helping efforts to reduce emissions, and strengthening social and economic ties between the Emirates. The Indian Express
• [New] By connecting key cities like Abu Dhabi, Dubai, and Fujairah, Etihad Rail will strengthen commerce and tourism within the UAE. GCC Railway
• [New] Luxury consumers will drive hotel bookings in 2026, hospitality industry professionals shared with Hotel Dive earlier in 2026. Hotel Dive
• [New] A more supportive backdrop for U.S. travel in 2026 is expected, which could catalyze performance gains. Hotel Dive
• [New] Future performance growth will be driven by multiple factors, including a more stable travel environment and strengthening consumer spending. / USA Hotel Dive
• [New] In a move set to elevate global cruise tourism, Norwegian Cruise Line has announced that it will broadcast all 104 FIFA World Cup 2026 matches across its entire fleet of ships, making the summer season even more exciting for passengers. Travel And Tour World
• [New] Sports tourism, the largest revenue driver, is expected to account for 60% of total sports economy growth through 2030. Mexico Business
• [New] Sports tourism now accounts for roughly 10% of global tourism spending, projected to reach $1.3 trillion. Travel And Tour World
• [New] Embedded insurance matures into a $250 billion powerhouse, weaving coverage into e-commerce, travel apps, and SaaS platforms for frictionless uptake-projected at 35% annual growth. Insurance Journal
• [New] While Oman stands the best bet of making inroads into the UAE/Qatar demand pool for travel, Bahrain and Kuwait have long since languished to the point where no matter what they do, they will always be a regional afterthought in terms of business, travel and holidays. Khaleej Times
• [New] In 2026, AI will become an even more powerful, invisible engine behind travel, anticipating what travelers need before they ask and removing friction at every step. Hotel Online
• [New] Today, nearly 50 million annual trips occur between Los Angeles and Las Vegas - over 85% of them by automobile - a trip which is unpredictable, unreliable and challenged by congestion. SoCal Magazine
• [New] Total travel spending in the United States is projected to reach approximately $1.35 trillion in 2025, with forecasts indicating an increase to $1.49 trillion by 2029. Sarasota Magazine
• [New] Destinations that integrate local culture, seasonal events, immersive storytelling, and high-quality hospitality are expected to see sustained growth in Valentine-driven travel demand through 2026 and beyond. Bennington Banner
• [New] Turkey, a rising star in global medical tourism sector, is projected to attract more international medical tourists in 2026, drawn by advanced treatments, world-class technology, and high standards of care. Medium
• [New] Relatively lesser-known players such as Sri Lanka, Vietnam and Czech Republic are among the countries which are tipped to emerge as hot destinations for medical tourism in 2026, while emerging players such as Malaysia, Thailand and Philippines are expected to further solidify their positions. Medium
• If Tesla can successfully launch the Cybercab at scale in 2026, it could fundamentally alter the cost structure of global logistics and personal travel, effectively solving the problem of urban congestion and high-cost car ownership. Valley City Times-Record
• Safety is a Top Consideration Travel risk is top of mind in 2026, as 75% of travelers are making travel decisions with safety, health, or insurance considerations in mind. Yahoo Finance
• The global space tourism industry will reach approximately $1.6 billion, driven by intense competition and renewed government focus. Chris Cruises
• Alternative Tourism: Stratospheric balloon flights aim for a 2026 debut, though some European operators and space hotels face delays until 2027. Chris Cruises

Last updated: 31 January 2026