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Sports travel trends 2026: predictions, experiences and destinations 
Editor's Pick, Sports Business, Trends

Sports travel trends 2026: predictions, experiences and destinations 

Sports travel in 2026 is shaping up to be bigger, bolder, and more immersive than ever. As global sporting calendars accelerate and a new wave of fan culture rises, travellers are no longer content with simply attending events – they’re seeking experiences that blend sport, wellness, culture, and community.  The result is a fast-evolving landscape where elite tournaments collide with bucket-list destinations, grassroots movements sit alongside global mega-events, and technology is transforming the way fans engage on the road. In this round-up, we look at the biggest trends and predictions for sports travel and adventure travel in 2026.   Main image: Premier League football club Arsenal play at the Emirates Stadium in London (Picture credit: Arne Müseler / arne-mueseler...
URWLD to make Middle East debut with new sports-lifestyle venue in Riyadh 
Sports Business, Venues & Stadiums

URWLD to make Middle East debut with new sports-lifestyle venue in Riyadh 

Indoor adventure and sports-lifestyle destination company URWLD (‘Your World’) has confirmed that its first Middle East venue will be in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. The announcement was made at the inaugural TOURISE Summit held in Saudi’s capital city from 11-13 November 2025. Boasting more than a dozen adventure sports and experiences in one indoor facility, URWLD combines elevated hospitality with lifestyle-inspired food and drink experiences, appealing to both adventure-seeking participants and non-participants alike. For the past two years URWLD has been working closely with key government stakeholders in Saudi Arabia, including, among others, the Ministry of Investment (MISA) and the General Entertainment Authority (GEA). Set to open ahead of 2030, Riyadh marks the first step in URWLD...
Maison Sport backs GB Snowsport stars ahead of Milano Cortina 2026
Sports Business

Maison Sport backs GB Snowsport stars ahead of Milano Cortina 2026

Ski lesson booking platform Maison Sport has announced a new partnership as an official sponsor of GB Snowsport. This collaboration will support Britain's Alpine Men’s World Cup team – Dave Ryding, Billy Major and Laurie Taylor – as they prepare for the Milano Cortina 2026 Winter Olympic Games. Founded by former members of the British ski team, Maison Sport has a deep-rooted passion for British Snowsports. This partnership marks a significant step for the company to further its commitment to supporting the UK Snowsports community, from grassroots talent to the highest levels of international competition. Nick Robinson, CEO and co-founder of Maison Sport, said: “As a former member of the British Ski Team, I understand all too well the dedication and hard work required to compete at th...
Globe Soccer Awards extends partnership with title sponsors BEYOND Developments
Events, Sports Business

Globe Soccer Awards extends partnership with title sponsors BEYOND Developments

The Globe Soccer Awards has extended its strategic partnership with BEYOND Developments, confirming the Dubai-born real estate brand as title partner for the 16th edition of the BEYOND Developments Globe Soccer Awards for a second successive year. Marking another milestone in the evolution of the Globe Soccer Awards, the renewed collaboration reinforces Dubai’s growing influence in the global sporting landscape and underscores a shared commitment to excellence.  Tommaso Bendoni, Founder and CEO of Globe Soccer, said: “BEYOND Developments has been an exceptional partner and we are delighted to continue this journey. Their dedication to innovation and high-quality experiences perfectly aligns with the spirit of Globe Soccer. This ongoing collaboration will continue to enhance the BEYON...
Apply for ‘The Coolest Job on Earth’ at the Antarctica Marathon
Editor's Pick, Sports Business

Apply for ‘The Coolest Job on Earth’ at the Antarctica Marathon

Forget the sports travel bucket list (for a minute), this is one for the life and career bucket lists. Marathon Tours & Travel is calling on runners, adventurers, storytellers, and content creators from across the world to apply for its most exciting campaign yet – “The Coolest Job on Earth”. This unique competition offers one lucky winner the chance to travel with the company to Antarctica in March 2026 and work behind the scenes at the world-famous Antarctica Marathon. The winner will travel to King George Island in March 2026, joining the Marathon Tours & Travel team in delivery of the Antarctica Marathon, which is held on 19 March 2026. They’ll be given the unique opportunity to experience one of the planet’s most extraordinary running events, and to connect with runners fr...
Sports travel bucket list: a women’s padel-wellness retreat in Bali   
Bucket List, Holidays & Trips, Trends

Sports travel bucket list: a women’s padel-wellness retreat in Bali   

Padel and wellness, two of the fastest-growing trends in sport and active travel, are the focus of a new experience hosted by Goddess Retreats. The Padel Goddess Retreat in Seminyak, Bali, is the world’s first women-only padel, yoga, and wellness retreat – and one of the most exciting new additions to our global sports travel bucket list. Blending professional padel coaching with yoga, cultural rituals, unlimited spa treatments and boutique villa living, this seven-day, six-night all-inclusive retreat invites guests to play, connect and reset in a vibrant, supportive setting. Whether you're a curious beginner or a committed padel fan, this Bali getaway delivers movement, mindfulness and meaningful community in paradise. Why padel and wellness is the next big trend Padel’s rise isn...
Elevate your sporting experience in Paris
Editor's Pick, Holidays & Trips, Hotels & Resorts, Venues & Stadiums

Elevate your sporting experience in Paris

Seine-Saint-Denis was the beating heart of Paris 2024 and a major reason why the French capital has been ranked the world’s top sports city in 2025. Ramy James Salameh discovered the reinvention of the northern Parisian suburbs accelerated by the Olympics. Let me set the scene. I was swimming in France’s highest pool, some 140 metres above the ground beneath a neon sign declaring ‘head in the clouds’ and beside floor-to-ceiling windows looking out upon the gleaming venues of the Paris 2024 Summer Olympics. I’d checked into the H4 Hotel Wyndham Paris Pleyel Resort in Seine-Saint-Denis a part of northern Paris which encompasses a collection of suburbs beyond the Périphérique, now boosted by the Olympics and evolving into a symbol of creative energy, cultural renewal and sporting legacy...
Ultimate ski bucket list: skiing under the Northern Lights tops poll
Bucket List, Holidays & Trips, Trends

Ultimate ski bucket list: skiing under the Northern Lights tops poll

A survey by ski holiday specialist Heidi has revealed the No.1 ski bucket list experience for UK skiers. Topping the list by a considerable margin is skiing under the Northern Lights, voted the must-do adventure across all age groups.  Participants rated 30 iconic ski experiences they’d love to tick off at least once in their lifetime. The magic of gliding across snow while the aurora dances overhead scored almost twice as highly as the average activity – making it the undisputed favourite.  In second place was another nocturnal thrill: night skiing under the stars, followed by tackling the world’s longest on-piste run – the legendary 22km descent from Klein Matterhorn to Valtournenche in the Zermatt-Cervinia ski area, crossing the Swiss-Italian border.  Interesting...
GCC sports tourism to surge as PwC highlights growth opportunities
Editor's Pick, Sports Business, Sports Travel, Trends

GCC sports tourism to surge as PwC highlights growth opportunities

Forecast to surpass $2 trillion by 2030, the sports tourism sector is being propelled by mega-events, high-spending fans, active lifestyle movements and the rise of immersive, experience-led travel. But nowhere is this transformation more visible – or more strategically leveraged – than in the countries that make up the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC). According to “Game on for the GCC: Turning sporting ambition into lasting tourism impact”, a new report by PwC Middle East, the region has shifted beyond merely hosting world-class sporting events. It is now developing an integrated sports tourism economy – one that spans infrastructure investment, destination branding, digital innovation and year-round community engagement.  From Saudi Arabia’s record-breaking Esports World Cup, Qatar’...
A guide to cycling in Dubai 
Editor's Pick, Guides, Trends

A guide to cycling in Dubai 

Cycling in Dubai has evolved from a niche weekend pastime into one of the city’s fastest-growing lifestyle trends. Transformed into a world-class destination for cyclists of all levels, purpose-built tracks now weave through deserts, beachfronts and urban skylines, offering everything from leisurely scenic rides to high-performance training grounds.  Whether you’re a recreational rider looking for a safe morning loop, a commuter seeking eco-friendly alternatives, or a road cyclist chasing personal bests, Dubai delivers in style. From the sweeping Al Qudra desert trail to the bustling Nad Al Sheba and Meydan circuits, the city combines immaculate infrastructure with year-round sunshine and a thriving cycling community.  Where to ride in Dubai Located in the desert ap...
All eyes on Ireland as golf’s Ryder Cup heads to Adare Manor in 2027
Editor's Pick, Events, Hotels & Resorts, Sports Business

All eyes on Ireland as golf’s Ryder Cup heads to Adare Manor in 2027

With Europe clinching a dramatic Ryder Cup victory over the USA at Bethpage Black, all eyes now turn to Ireland as the countdown begins for the 2027 Ryder Cup at Adare Manor, where golf’s greatest team event will celebrate its 100th anniversary. Team Europe stars Shane Lowry and Rory McIlroy played pivotal roles in New York, with Lowry delivering the decisive half point that ensured Europe retained the coveted trophy in front of packed galleries. Ireland’s Ryder Cup roots run strong, with Padraig Harrington, Paul McGinley and Darren Clarke among recent captains, having also provided unforgettable moments such as McGinley holing the winning putt in 2002 and Clarke’s performance at the K Club in 2006, when Ireland last hosted the event. The Island of Ireland is no stranger to hostin...
Kulm Hotel St. Moritz unveils new Alpine Sports Lounge & Boutique
Holidays & Trips, Hotels & Resorts

Kulm Hotel St. Moritz unveils new Alpine Sports Lounge & Boutique

The Kulm Hotel St. Moritz, a five-star luxury hotel located in the Engadin valley in St. Moritz, has unveiled the Kulm Alpine Sports Lounge & Boutique for winter 2025-2026. A reimagining of the traditional ski room, where pioneering design meets alpine performance, every detail sets guests up to enjoy their time on the mountains, from “avant-ski” rituals to peak performance equipment and ski concierge services.  Designed by Foster + Partners, the introduction of the Alpine Sports Lounge & Boutique is the first phase in a transformational new era for the iconic Kulm Hotel – the place that makes winter and continues to shape the future of luxury in the Alps. Heinz Hunkeler, general manager, said: “Kulm Hotel St. Moritz has been the original winter playground ever since we ...
Verbier, Switzerland: a winter sports travel guide for 2025-2026
Guides

Verbier, Switzerland: a winter sports travel guide for 2025-2026

Verbier, an Alpine village in Switzerland’s Valais Canton, is set to deliver one of its most ambitious ski seasons yet. From November 2025 right through to the end of April 2026 – a total of 151 skiable days – winter sports lovers will have half a year to carve up Switzerland’s most iconic terrain. Weekend-only access starts the season in November before the full lift system opens daily from early December. High-altitude pistes up to 2,700m and extensive snowmaking (63% coverage) make for reliable conditions from the first snowfall to spring’s final après-ski. Two rapid gondolas whisk skiers from the 1,500m village to summit terrain in under 11 minutes – meaning powder laps before breakfast are practically a given. Verbier anchors the 4 Vallées, Switzerland’s largest linked ski ar...
Seat Unique completes acquisition of Circuit Hospitality
Sports Business

Seat Unique completes acquisition of Circuit Hospitality

Premium ticketing platform Seat Unique has completed the acquisition of Bristol-based business Circuit Hospitality in a move that reflects the rapid growth of the UK’s premium experience economy and rising demand for live experiences. By bringing Seat Unique and Circuit Hospitality together, fans will now have greater access to premium experiences across some of the UK’s most iconic events and venues, including Manchester United Football Club, Wembley Stadium, and Everton Football Club. The acquisition significantly expands Seat Unique’s network of rights holder partnerships, creating more choice, more availability and more ways for fans to enjoy unforgettable live moments. It also enables rights holders to reach new audiences, unlock additional revenue, and deliver an enhanced premium ...
Commonwealth Games Glasgow 2026

Commonwealth Games Glasgow 2026

Glasgow 2026 (officially the XXIII Commonwealth Games) returns the Games to Scotland after Glasgow’s successful 2014 event. The city will stage a streamlined, cost-conscious edition following the withdrawal of Victoria (Australia) as host; organisers emphasise financial sustainability, reuse of existing venues and a tight, fan-friendly footprint. An estimated ~3,000 athletes from around 74 Commonwealth associations are expected to attend. When Victoria pulled out amid cost concerns, Glasgow stepped in with a plan built around existing facilities and a smaller programme. The Commonwealth Games Federation and Scotland’s partners backing the bid have focused on delivering the atmosphere and TV-ready competition of the Games while avoiding the large capital outlay typical of recent multi-sp...
Sports travel bucket list: rent an ultra-luxury ski chalet for €550,000 per week
Bucket List, Holidays & Trips, Hotels & Resorts

Sports travel bucket list: rent an ultra-luxury ski chalet for €550,000 per week

If your winter sports dreams include carving down world-class slopes by day and retreating to your own private Alpine palace by night, this one’s for the bucket list. London-based The Luxury Chalet Company has unveiled its most opulent winter portfolio yet – a collection of chalets so lavish they redefine what après-ski luxury means. With properties starting from €30,000 per week and soaring to an astonishing €500,000 per week (and sometimes beyond), these chalets are the ultimate in mountain indulgence. Guests can expect indoor swimming pools, private spas, cinema rooms, gyms, games lounges, wine cellars, and even grand pianos, alongside butlers, chefs, chauffeurs, and personal concierges. Cameron Temple, founder of The Luxury Chalet Company, said: “Our clients are looking for the u...
Sports travel bucket list: ‘Italian Swing’ golf trip on La Dolce Vita Orient Express
Bucket List, Holidays & Trips

Sports travel bucket list: ‘Italian Swing’ golf trip on La Dolce Vita Orient Express

For golf travellers who believe the journey should be every bit as memorable as the destination, the “Italian Swing” voyage aboard the La Dolce Vita Orient Express is a bucket list experience like no other. This four-day, three-night adventure fuses world-class golf with the romance of slow luxury travel – a rolling celebration of Italy’s landscapes, cuisine, and culture. Unveiled as part of the La Dolce Vita Orient Express’s series of curated Italian itineraries, the Italian Swing offers an indulgent round trip from Rome to Apulia, Siena, and Perugia, showcasing Italy’s finest fairways in cinematic style. Think golden Tuscan hills, medieval towns, coastal vistas, and evenings of exquisite dining – all wrapped in the timeless elegance of a train that redefines old-world glamour. Onbo...
Sports travel bucket list: Fitness Hub at Four Seasons Resort Bali at Sayan
Bucket List, Holidays & Trips, Hotels & Resorts

Sports travel bucket list: Fitness Hub at Four Seasons Resort Bali at Sayan

The Four Seasons Resort Bali at Sayan has unveiled its new Fitness Hub, a dedicated space perched above the Ayung River that unites modern training methods with restorative therapies. It is the only jungle sanctuary in Bali to offer both time-honoured healing traditions and advanced recovery therapies in one seamless experience. Part of the growing global movement towards longevity tourism, the Fitness Hub blends recovery-focused travel and immersive nature experiences to promote vitality, balance, and long-term wellbeing. Here, guests can flow seamlessly from ancient Balinese healing rituals to high-tech recovery in one of the world's most serene river valleys. Set high above the river valley, the new Fitness Hub offers complimentary access to a light-filled gym with panoramic jungl...
Sports travel bucket list: Iglu Cruise NFL-themed cruise holidays
Bucket List, Holidays & Trips

Sports travel bucket list: Iglu Cruise NFL-themed cruise holidays

Sports and sea adventures come together as Iglu Cruise unveils an exciting new collection of NFL-themed cruise holidays. This first-of-its-kind offering allows travellers to combine luxury cruising with the thrill of attending a live NFL game in the USA – a dream trip for sports and travel fans alike. Natalie Draper, Head of Marketing Partnerships at Iglu Cruise, said: “We’re so pleased to bring fun extra activities to our cruise customers. This is a first for us, and we’ll be watching sales closely to see how the idea lands. We know our customers love overseas sporting occasions, such as attending a Grand Prix, so this feels like a natural next step.” With packages that include flights, hotels, transfers, cruise meals, and NFL game tickets, these itineraries make for a seamless and ...
LEVEL UP Sports Tech Innovation Expo Dubai

LEVEL UP Sports Tech Innovation Expo Dubai

LEVEL UP, a first-of-its-kind Sports Tech Innovation Expo created in partnership between the Dubai Sports Council (DSC) and Global MICE Organisation Limited (GMOLx), will take place from 27-29 November 2025 at Dubai Harbour. Designed to convene more than 10,000 attendees from around the world, the expo will unite a powerful mix of athletes, sports federations, startups, investors, brands, innovators, media and celebrity personalities. The event aims to accelerate innovation, strengthen industry collaboration and reinforce Dubai’s global standing as a premier hub for sports, entertainment and technology. With the Middle East and Africa sports tech market projected to reach US$3.3 billion by 2030, Dubai offers a strategic gateway into this fast-growing sector. The emirate’s sports indu...

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