Published on
January 20, 2026

Qatar Airways is set to boost its capacity to South Africa with an increase in flight frequencies starting in February-March 2026. This expansion will significantly improve connectivity between South Africa and the world, especially in the tourism sector. With over 170 global destinations now more accessible through Qatar Airways, tourists visiting Johannesburg, Cape Town, and Durban will have seamless one-stop flights via Doha. This increase in service marks a major milestone in the airline’s commitment to strengthening its African network and meeting growing travel demand.

New Flight Schedule to Boost Tourism and Business Travel

As part of the expanded schedule, Qatar Airways will offer more flights to key South African cities, creating a convenient bridge for both business and leisure travelers. The new frequencies are:

Johannesburg (JNB) to Doha (DOH): Increasing from 18 to 21 weekly flights, starting on 18 February 2026.Cape Town (CPT) to Doha (DOH): Increasing from 12 to 14 weekly flights, effective 17 February 2026.Durban to Doha (via Maputo, MPM): Increasing from five to seven weekly flights, starting 5 March 2026.

This expansion not only boosts convenience but also enhances flexibility for tourists seeking to explore South Africa’s vibrant culture, iconic wildlife, and world-renowned attractions.

Strategic Context of the Expansion: A Boost for Tourism

Qatar Airways’ increased flights are part of a broader strategy to enhance Africa’s tourism appeal. By expanding its network, Qatar Airways is making it easier for international tourists to access South Africa. The added frequencies reflect an increasing demand for tourism between South Africa and global destinations. With new connections to markets such as Europe, China, and the United States, travelers can now easily book their flights with Qatar Airways, seamlessly connecting through Doha’s state-of-the-art Hamad International Airport.

Advertisement

Advertisement

As the global tourism industry continues to recover, this move by Qatar Airways comes at a time when South Africa is positioning itself as a top travel destination in Africa. Visitors from around the world can now easily book flights to the popular cities of Johannesburg, Cape Town, and Durban, opening up new opportunities for cultural exchanges, adventure tourism, and luxury travel experiences.

Enhancing Connectivity for Global Tourists

The addition of more flights to South Africa brings undeniable advantages for both international and local tourists. With increased frequencies, Qatar Airways makes travel to South Africa more accessible. The increase in services means that tourists no longer have to worry about limited flight availability, making it easier to plan vacations, business trips, and special events such as conferences and international sporting events.

These added connections will encourage more tourists to explore the scenic Garden Route, the Cape Winelands, and the wildlife-rich Kruger National Park, as well as other lesser-known yet equally remarkable destinations. By improving access to these natural wonders and urban experiences, Qatar Airways is directly contributing to the growth of South Africa’s tourism industry.

Operational Benefits for South Africa’s Tourism Sector

For South Africa, the increase in Qatar Airways’ flight services means not just more convenience for tourists but also a significant boost for its tourism economy. More international visitors arriving in South Africa will likely lead to increased hotel stays, car rentals, local tours, and visits to major attractions. In addition, the improved air connectivity strengthens South Africa’s position as a premier destination for business tourism in Africa, further encouraging corporate travelers to visit for conferences, meetings, and trade events.

The expanded service also provides an opportunity for local tour operators, hotels, and service providers to engage with a larger customer base. With tourists arriving from all corners of the world, local businesses will benefit from a surge in tourism-related spending.

Strengthening Cargo and Trade Opportunities

Beyond passengers, Qatar Airways is expanding its cargo capacity to South Africa, which will have a positive impact on trade. The airline currently operates over 6,000 tonnes of cargo capacity per week between Africa and global markets. This expansion will help facilitate trade in essential goods, ranging from agricultural products to high-tech equipment, thereby supporting South Africa’s economy.

Strategic Partnerships to Drive Future Growth

Qatar Airways’ partnership strategy is pivotal to its growth in Africa. With a 25% stake in Airlink, a regional South African airline, Qatar Airways is further integrating into the local market. This partnership enhances Qatar Airways’ reach within the African continent, especially to underserved cities and remote regions. The result is better access to tourist attractions that might not be easily reachable via international flights alone.

Additionally, Qatar Airways’ collaboration with airlines such as Kenya Airways, Air Algérie, and RwandAir strengthens its position in the African travel market, providing travelers with even more options and flexibility when planning their itineraries.

Connecting South Africa to the World

Qatar Airways’ increased capacity to South Africa is a monumental step for the airline and for the tourism industry. As the airline enhances its services between Johannesburg, Cape Town, and Durban, it opens the doors to a more connected world, fostering greater cultural exchange and business opportunities. This expansion reflects Qatar Airways’ commitment to supporting the recovery and growth of global tourism, particularly in Africa. By making South Africa more accessible, the airline is playing a critical role in elevating the country’s tourism profile and positioning it as one of the most sought-after destinations in the world.

The future of South African tourism is looking brighter than ever, and with Qatar Airways leading the way in enhanced connectivity, the possibilities are endless for travelers and the tourism sector alike.