- ECTAA held its 131st semi-annual meeting in Rabat on 17–18 November 2025.
- Delegates discussed revisions to the Package Travel Directive and new sustainability regulations.
- Sessions examined artificial intelligence applications in travel personalisation and distribution.
- Members addressed environmental pressures and inclusive tourism practices.
- Morocco’s National Tourist Office reported 3.5m European visitors in 2025, a 12pc increase.
The 131st semi-annual meeting of the European Travel Agents’ and Tour Operators’ Associations has concluded in Rabat after delegates from across Europe addressed regulatory updates and industry shifts over two days.
The event opened on 17 November with presentations from Morocco’s National Tourist Office on visitor arrivals from Europe, which totalled 3.5m in 2025. Figures showed a 12pc increase from the previous year, with sessions focusing on infrastructure for group travel. Delegates visited the Kasbah of the Oudaias and Hassan Tower to evaluate sites for organised tours.
ECTAA president Frank Oostdam stated that outcomes from the meeting will guide advocacy in Brussels for harmonised regulations to cover 80,000 travel agents and tour operators in the association. Members reviewed the European Commission’s proposed changes to the Package Travel Directive, including positions on liability for disruptions from external events.
Discussions covered environmental pressures, digital transformation and sustainability in the travel sector. Delegates examined artificial intelligence for personalised itineraries and supply chain management, as presented by Christoph Moller of ECTAA Travel. Sessions addressed unbalanced tourism and its effects on local communities.
The agenda included the evolution of the travel agency sector and adaptation of business models for viability. Participants considered automated payment solutions to enhance efficiency and reduce operational risk. Topics extended to inclusive tourism and the role of AI in travel experiences.
The meeting reinforced Euro-Mediterranean cooperation, with delegates exploring Rabat’s offerings to support Morocco as a destination for European visitors. ECTAA’s efforts highlighted partnerships between Europe and the Mediterranean region.
