Business travel is steadily bouncing back after the sharp decline caused by the pandemic. As global mobility resumes, the reasons for traveling — whether for business or leisure — are evolving and often depend on individual goals. For instance, there are many compelling reasons to visit Qatar, each tailored to different interests and objectives.

As we navigate this new era, companies have a unique opportunity to rethink and reshape corporate travel. What will work trips look like for today’s professionals? How are priorities shifting, and how will the lessons of recent years influence travel preferences and budgets? While uncertainties persist, several emerging trends are poised to redefine the future of business travel and the way organizations approach it.

How business travel has evolved

The landscape of corporate travel is transforming, driven by global economic changes, workforce diversity, and a growing focus on sustainability. Modern business travel is becoming increasingly global, inclusive, and technology-driven. Here’s how professional travel has evolved in recent years:

1. Increased globalization: More professionals are traveling internationally, building connections, attending global events, and exploring new markets, underscoring the interconnectedness of today’s economy.
2. Rising workforce diversity: With more women and minorities in the workforce, the demographic of business travelers is more diverse than ever, highlighting the importance of inclusivity.
3. Sustainability takes center stage: Employees and organizations are adopting eco-friendly practices, such as carbon-offset flights and green hotel options, to reduce their environmental footprints.
4. Technology integration: Advanced technology simplifies travel logistics, enhances connectivity, and enables seamless work continuity while on the move.
5. The Rise of “Bleisure” Travel: Blurring the lines between business and leisure, professionals are increasingly extending work trips for personal enjoyment, making the most of their time away.

9 Business travel trends

As the world of business evolves, so do the ways professionals travel. Here are the top trends shaping corporate travel:

1. Business travel demand is back

Business travel is bouncing back, with spending expected to hit $1.4 trillion by 2024 and nearly $1.8 trillion by 2027, according to GBTA’s Business Travel Index Outlook report. Face-to-face meetings, in-person events, and international business trips are regaining momentum, with 2025 poised to continue this upward trend.

2. Bleisure travel is booming

The blending of business and leisure travel — “bleisure” — is on the rise, fueled by a younger workforce seeking to enrich work trips with personal experiences. Employees are extending business trips for weekend getaways, creating opportunities for hotels to benefit from longer stays. This trend is transforming the corporate travel dynamic, offering employees more flexibility and balance.

3. Sustainability becomes a priority

Environmentally conscious travel is no longer optional — it’s expected. Companies and employees are prioritizing sustainable options, including green hotels, eco-friendly transportation, and paperless travel. Updated corporate travel policies are increasingly focusing on reducing carbon footprints and tracking sustainability metrics.

Key sustainable practices include:

1. Staying at eco-certified hotels.
2. Choosing carbon-offset flights.
3. Relying on paperless systems.
4. Using sustainability-focused travel reports.

4. Technology drives seamless travel

Technology is reshaping how businesses manage travel. Advanced tools enhance every aspect of the experience, from booking to expense reporting. AI and machine learning are predicting flight delays, recommending hotels, and personalizing trips. Virtual and augmented reality (VR/AR) are becoming tools for virtual site visits and training programs.

Corporate travel management platforms are key to optimizing bookings, tracking travelers, and controlling costs. In 2025, businesses will increasingly rely on next-gen solutions to streamline operations and improve traveler experiences.

5. Secondary markets are emerging

The growth of business travel into emerging markets, particularly in Asia and Africa, is a defining trend for 2025. Markets like India and Indonesia are gaining prominence, while alternative accommodations, such as home rentals, are rising to meet the needs of business travelers.

The global business travel market is projected to grow from $711.1 billion in 2021 to nearly $3 trillion by 2030, with emerging markets as critical drivers. Companies will need to adapt their travel strategies to tap into these new regions effectively.

6. Connectivity and personalization are key

Travelers now expect personalized, tech-enabled experiences. From seamless online booking to in-app travel assistance, convenience is a top priority. According to surveys, 80% of travelers value fully online booking, while 76% appreciate apps that reduce stress and simplify logistics.

Personal devices also play a major role, with travelers favoring touchless payments, smart device integration, and streaming capabilities. Businesses must embrace these technologies to meet evolving traveler expectations.

7. Loyalty programs shift from points to experiences

In 2025, loyalty programs will go beyond traditional perks like upgrades and points. Business travelers crave meaningful experiences, such as exclusive events, unique services, or personalized rewards. Practical benefits like late checkouts and complimentary upgrades remain important, but enriching experiences are what truly resonate with modern travelers.

8. Business trips get ROI-focused

The era of casual work trips is over. In 2025, companies are prioritizing purposeful travel, evaluating every trip based on its return on investment (ROI) and return on experience (ROE). Trips aimed at closing deals or advancing key projects are more likely to be approved, while relationship-building trips face greater scrutiny.

Rising flight delays, staffing shortages, and supply chain challenges are making travel less comfortable, further emphasizing the need to ensure trips are worthwhile. Companies that focus on enhancing the traveler experience will gain a competitive edge.

9. Wellness becomes a priority

The pandemic has heightened awareness of health and wellness, making it a critical focus for corporate travel programs. From safe accommodations to stress-reducing activities, wellness must be integrated into every step of the journey. Businesses are increasingly recognizing the value of prioritizing mental and physical well-being, with policies that support holistic health and create enjoyable travel experiences.