Adelaide Rises as Top Emerging Business Travel Destination
Adelaide has emerged as one of the world's top destinations for international business travel. According to American Express's Amex Trendex: Business Travel Edition report, Adelaide ranks alongside Hyderabad in India and Manchester in the UK as a 'fastest-growing emerging destination' for corporate travel.
The South Australian capital saw a significant rise in corporate travel spending and commercial development over the past year, with innovation precincts, international transit capacity, and recent airline route expansions contributing to its growth. One notable expansion was the introduction of direct flights between San Francisco and Adelaide by United Airlines, which helped make 2025 Adelaide Airport's busiest year on record.
Business Events Adelaide chief executive Damien Kitto attributed Adelaide's success to its unique blend of affordability and quality, saying 'Adelaide offers a unique setting without the cost and complexity of larger cities.' He noted that event organisers often choose Adelaide for its cost-effectiveness, with costs stretching further without compromising on quality.
South Australia's Minister for Tourism Emily Bourke MLC emphasized the economic benefits of business travel to Adelaide, stating 'When people travel to Adelaide for business, the flow-on benefits for local businesses and the state's economy are far-reaching.'