Global Business Travel Trends for the remainder of 2025
As we move deeper into 2025, the global business travel landscape is undergoing a dynamic transformation.
Driven by technological innovation, sustainability imperatives and shifting corporate priorities, business travel is evolving into a more strategic, efficient and human-centred experience.
Here we take a look at some of the top trends redefining the way professionals travel for work this year.
Business travel spending reaches new heights
According to the Global Business Travel Association (GBTA), global business travel spending is projected to hit $1.57 trillion in 2025, marking a 6.6% year-over-year growth.
While this reflects a steady recovery, the pace is moderated by trade policy uncertainty, inflationary pressures and geopolitical risks.
The U.S. and China remain dominant markets, accounting for nearly 60% of global spend, with India, South Korea and Turkey emerging as fast-growing players.
The rise of AI and smart automation
Artificial Intelligence is no longer just a support tool – it’s becoming a proactive travel assistant. The emergence of AI means systems can now autonomously rebook flights, optimise itineraries, and negotiate hotel rates, all while ensuring compliance with corporate travel policies.
This shift is streamlining the travel experience and freeing up time for travellers and managers alike.
Sustainability becomes a core strategy
Sustainable travel is no longer optional – it’s essential. Companies are embedding eco-conscious practices into every aspect of travel planning.
Key strategies include:
- Assessing trip necessity and replacing some travel with virtual meetings
- Choosing direct flights to reduce emissions
- Opting for trains or electric vehicles for short-haul travel
- Booking green hotels with energy-efficient systems
- Using digital tools to highlight low-emission travel options and track carbon footprints
This shift is helping organisations meet carbon reduction targets while maintaining productivity.
Purposeful and Strategic Travel
Post-pandemic, companies are prioritizing high-impact travel—focusing on events, client meetings, and team-building activities that deliver tangible value. This strategic approach is reshaping travel budgets and encouraging organizations to scrutinize the necessity of each trip.
Wellness and Work-Life Integration
The concept of “Jetset Hacking” is gaining traction, with wellness-focused innovations like fitness-centric hotels and jet lag treatments becoming standard. Younger professionals (Gen Z and Millennials) are driving demand for travel experiences that blend work and leisure, emphasising flexibility and wellbeing
Biometric and Digital Payment Innovations
Technology is enhancing security and convenience. Biometric gateways using facial recognition are streamlining airport experiences, while virtual cards and mobile wallets are becoming the norm for corporate travel payments
These innovations are improving compliance and simplifying expense management.
Regional Travel and “Proximity Power”
With hybrid work models and localized supply chains, companies are favouring regional and domestic travel over long-haul trips. High-speed rail networks and proximity-based planning are making shorter trips more strategic and cost-effective
2025 marks a turning point for global business travel.
Companies that embrace these trends – balancing innovation, sustainability and strategic value – will be better positioned to empower their workforce, optimise travel spend and stay competitive in a rapidly evolving world.
