RateHawk identifies 10 trends shaping travel’s next decade

RateHawk, the B2B booking platform of UAE-based Emerging Travel Group, has identified 10 trends expected to shape travel distribution through 2036 in a joint report with travel research company PhocusWright.

The findings were unveiled during RateHawk’s Futurecast online conference on 23 June 2026, with the full report now available to download online.

 

Demand for personalised experiences and social media-driven bookings is expected to continue growing over the next decade, prompting travel businesses to diversify their products and distribution channels.

 

The study also identifies geopolitical tensions and economic uncertainty among the biggest challenges facing the sector, increasing demand for diversified supply, integrated booking platforms and stronger API connectivity.

 

Artificial intelligence is identified as another major force shaping travel distribution. More than 57% of travel professionals surveyed by RateHawk in 2026 viewed AI positively in the workplace, with agentic workflows expected to automate routine tasks and allow travel advisors to focus on higher-value customer service.

 

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Other trends identified in the report include rising price sensitivity, greater reliance on diversified supply networks, integrated booking platforms, stronger API connectivity and improved data quality to support the next generation of travel technology.

 

Astrid Kastberg, Managing Director of RateHawk, said: “We created this report as a practical guide to help travel businesses navigate the industry’s fast-changing environment. It explores key shifts across the market landscape, traveller behaviour and technology adoption, helping travel professionals identify the actions needed to stay competitive over the next decade.”

 

RateHawk’s Futurecast online conference featured executives from TikTok, Travelport, Lufthansa City Center, MakeMyTrip and Emerging Travel Group.

 

Earlier this year, the company also announced plans to expand its tech capabilities and strengthen its API offering as it entered its second decade. The platform currently provides access to more than 3.2 million accommodation options worldwide, including direct contracts with more than 250,000 properties, alongside flights from more than 450 airlines, transfers in more than 150 countries and a range of ancillary travel services.

 

For more information,visit www.ratehawk.com