Seychelles eyes MICE boom following 12% tourist jump

At a Glance

• Seychelles reports a 12% increase in international arrivals, signaling tourism recovery.
• The country showcases MICE readiness at IBTM World 2025, focusing on corporate gatherings and partnerships.
• Officials aim to diversify tourism beyond leisure, positioning Seychelles as a top African hub for business events.

Seychelles is emerging as a rising star in global business tourism after reporting a 12% increase in international arrivals this year.

The island nation drew attention at IBTM World 2025 in Barcelona, one of the world’s leading meetings, incentives, conferences, and exhibitions (MICE) events.

Tourism officials used the platform to showcase the sector’s recovery and outline plans to expand beyond traditional leisure travel. 

At the event, Seychelles’ delegation highlighted the country’s readiness to host corporate gatherings, pointing to investments in infrastructure, partnerships, and tailored services for the MICE market.

“We’re seeing strong growth in global arrivals, and we want to translate that into business events tourism,” said Bernadette Willemin, Director General for Destination Marketing at Tourism Seychelles.

She credited the rise to collaboration between local stakeholders and international partners, alongside targeted marketing campaigns.

A growing focus on corporate events 

The MICE sector is increasingly central to Seychelles’ tourism strategy. Participation in international platforms like IBTM World helps the nation connect with corporate planners, tour operators, and event organizers, creating opportunities for sustained revenue.

Willemin added, “We are focused on expanding our business events segment while continuing growth in leisure tourism, making Seychelles an attractive and competitive destination.” 

Seychelles’ approach provides a blueprint for other African destinations seeking to raise their global profile.

By combining effective destination management, diversified offerings, and engagement at international events, countries can tap into high-value markets.

The island’s emphasis on unique venues, seamless logistics, and collaborative partnerships underscores its ambition to become a preferred hub for conferences and corporate meetings.

Leveraging global platforms for growth 

As Seychelles ramps up its MICE efforts, officials are using IBTM World connections to secure leads, strengthen networks, and reinforce the country’s position in the competitive global tourism landscape.

For tourism professionals across Africa, the takeaway is clear: growth in high-value markets requires strategic planning, market diversification, and active participation in industry events.