Travel Industry Outlook - Insights from the MarketHub 2026

What is the state of travel and technology in 2026? From rapid technological advancements to shifting customer preferences, industry players must move fast - not only to keep the pace, but to pave the road towards a frictionless future.

At the MarketHub: UNLOCKED, HBX Group partners, thought leaders and industry trailblazers gathered to reimagine the possibilities of a sector facing profound change. Discover how it all unfolded in your free copy of MarketHub Pulse Review, available to access below.

Why the MarketHub is one of the must-attend travel industry events of the year

Across the 2026 cycle, players from across the industry explored how technology can uncover untapped potential, how data drives meaningful action, and how connection and empathy are key to inspiring dynamic partnerships.

With guest speakers ranging from Amadeus to Zytlyn, with many more in between (not least Oxford Economics, AWS and renowned futurist John Sanei), the agenda was packed full of valuable insights from titans spanning the length and breadth of this vibrant sector.

More than just a travel trade show, the MarketHub is a must-attend corporate travel event, weaving together thought-provoking keynotes, high-value networking opportunities, and memorable destination experiences that showcase the culture, hospitality and connections that prove that tourism is a sector unlike any other. See the highlights from our Bali, Malta and Punta Cana events in the magazine now.

What the MarketHub revealed about the travel sector in 2026 and beyond

It's time to move from data to direction:

Travel has never had more data at its disposal, but the challenge is no longer collecting information – it's acting on it. Across the MarketHub 2026, speakers explored how AI, real-time intelligence and better connectivity are helping businesses turn signals into decisions, identify opportunities sooner and respond to changing traveller behaviour with greater confidence. 

In the AI era, travel is still very human:

As artificial intelligence reshapes every stage of the customer journey, one message emerged consistently across the event: technology works best when it enhances human expertise, rather than replaces it. The future of travel will be built on trust, authenticity and meaningful connections, with AI helping businesses create better experiences while keeping people at the centre. 

The age of the individual is upon us:

Traditional traveller segments are giving way to a more personal understanding of customer needs. From fandom tourism and live events to passion-led travel and personalised experiences, brands are increasingly being challenged to understand the motivations behind each booking and build offers around the traveller, not the category. 

Key takeaways from travel leaders and industry experts

The travel industry enters the second half of the decade with no shortage of challenges, from volatility and rising costs to growing technological complexity. Yet the conversations that shaped MarketHub 2026 were overwhelmingly optimistic: demand remains resilient, innovation continues at pace, and new technologies are creating opportunities to connect travellers, partners and destinations in more meaningful ways than ever before.

Download your complimentary copy of MarketHub Pulse Review 2026 to explore exclusive interviews with HBX Group CEO Nicolas Huss and futurist John Sanei, and discover data-backed insights from top travel industry players. This is your essential guide to the ideas, opportunities and innovations shaping the TravelTech sector in 2026 and beyond.