From smarter bookings to wow-worthy itineraries, travel businesses are in the race to level up fast, and stand out. As we know, travellers are getting savvier, demand’s not slowing down, and let’s be honest, competition is everywhere and it’s stiff. That’s why the sharpest agents are leaning into smart tech to not only boost sales, save time, up customer loyalty, but also very quickly pull together highly impressive itineraries.
We’ve scoured the latest innovations making waves across the industry, and have shortlisted the top eight tools you can start using today.
1. Chatbots
Why it matters: Clients want instant answers, whether it’s midday or midnight.
What’s working: AI-powered chatbots on WhatsApp, Instagram, and travel websites are offering instant replies, travel ideas, and even upsells. And this is all in the client’s preferred language.
Who’s doing it: Qatar Airways’ “Sama”, Saudi Tourism’s “Sara”, and global players like Booking.com and Expedia are leading the charge.
Your takeaway: Add a chatbot tool like HiJiffy or Yellow.ai to your website or socials to handle all of the FAQs, send reminders, and help secure that booking even while you sleep.
2. AI itinerary builders
Why it matters: Custom trips take time. These tools speed things up without sacrificing the magic.
What’s working: AI-based itinerary platforms like Roam Around, Roamify, and Itinera can turn simple inputs into beautiful, personalised travel plans in mere seconds.
Who’s doing it: A number of forward-thinking agents in the UAE and Jordan are layering AI-generated frameworks with personal touches.
Your takeaway: Use tools like Roamify or Curiosio to quickly whip up draft itineraries before you add your flair.
3. Automate, automate, automate!
Why it matters: Time spent on admin is time lost with your client.
What’s working: Robotic Process Automation (RPA) handles PNRs, payments, reports (even cancellation workflows) with lightning speed and zero burnout.
Who’s doing it: Larger agencies are using tools like UiPath and Automation Anywhere, while smaller outfits are trying tools embedded in platforms like Zoho or HubSpot.
Your takeaway: Start small, automate one repetitive task like sending invoices or booking confirmations using Zapier or Make.com. Once your’re comfortable automate other mundane tasks.
4. Smart pricing = more bookings
Why it matters: Today’s traveller is deal-hungry and price-aware, so you need real-time smarts.
What’s working: Dynamic pricing tools analyse seasonality, competitor rates, and even upcoming events to help you offer the right rate at the right time.
Who’s doing it: Many top agencies are already using predictive analytics platforms tied to airline APIs to sell smarter and faster.
Your takeaway: Use airfare alert tools like Hopper for insights, or create a monthly travel pass with exclusive perks to lock in loyal clients.
5. Personalisation
Why it matters: Today’s traveller wants to feel seen, heard and understood.
What’s working: Smart CRMs and analytics platforms are helping agents deliver hyper-personalised experiences—from room temperature preferences to birthday dinner bookings.
Who’s doing it: Players working with Travelport, Amadeus and Viavii are getting creative with loyalty data.
Your takeaway: Send a short preference form before each trip to ask your clients about sleep habits, hobbies, and travel style to shape truly thoughtful plans that speak to their personalities and interests.
6. ‘Try before you fly’
Why it matters: Seeing is believing, especially for high-end clients.
What’s working: Virtual reality (VR) tours and 360° hotel walk-throughs are helping clients pick the perfect stay before booking.
Who’s doing it: Many operators in Abu Dhabi and Dubai are using VR to sell honeymoon packages and group travel.
Your takeaway: Add a free 360° video link or virtual room tour to your emails or itineraries to “take your clients there”.
7. Loyalty that lives on blockchain
Why it matters: Travellers are tired of scattered points and complicated redemptions.
What’s working: Blockchain tech is being used to store travel documents, loyalty points, and identities in one secure place—ready for fast, cross-platform use.
Who’s doing it: Digital wallet projects backed by Emirates and regional startups are gaining traction.
Easy takeaway: Join a blockchain-based loyalty trial, or partner with fintech travel solutions to offer smarter perks.
8. Starting at the airport
Why it matters: The airport is a part of the journey, and usually, clients remember queues and chaos.
What’s working: Facial recognition, biometric check-in, and airport mobility apps are making travel smoother from curb to gate.
Who’s doing it: Dubai International Airport, Abu DHabi’s Zayed International Airport, Doha’s Hamad, and Riyadh’s new terminal are investing in autonomous transport and integrated apps to make check-in fast and painless.
Your takeaway: Send clients pre-trip links to local airport apps or biometric fast-track options to wow them before they’ve even landed.
Make no mistake, however. Tech isn’t replacing travel agents anytime soon. It’s empowering them. The most successful advisors today are combining the best of both worlds – ensuring empathy, creativity, and modern tools work together to help them deliver exceptional travel experiences.
