In the increasingly changing world of corporate travel, the outlook continues to deviate in favour of destinations that balance work and well-being. As we look ahead to summer 2025, businesses seek locations that let teams combine productive meetings with options for relaxation, creativity, and cultural enrichment.

Whether you’re planning a company-wide retreat, a leadership offsite, or incentive travel for your top performers, here are the top destinations to consider this coming summer, chosen for their accessibility, infrastructure, distinctive appeal, and suitability for corporate groups.

 

1. Barcelona, Spain

Why it’s ideal:

Barcelona has long been a standout for corporate planners, and it’s easy to see why. This cosmopolitan city has both centuries-old architecture and cutting-edge venues with tech-forward infrastructure. The weather in summer is warm but pleasant by the coast, and the city provides a wide range of activities—from beach outings and tapas tastings to guided Gaudí tours and flamenco performances.

Corporate advantages:

• Excellent MICE facilities and hotels
• Strong connectivity via air and rail
• Vivid cultural experiences to support team-building

Top activities:

Team-building cooking classes, sailing regattas, and rooftop networking sessions overlooking the Gothic Quarter.

 

2. Cape Town, South Africa

Why it’s ideal:

With its jaw-dropping natural beauty, Cape Town is an inspiring setting for corporate gatherings. From Table Mountain to the Cape Winelands, it presents both adventure and elegance. For UAE-based corporates, it’s also in a similar time zone, which reduces jet lag and helps maintain productivity.

Corporate advantages:

• A variety of high-end resorts and conference centres
• Affordable luxury by global standards
• Special incentive experiences like wildlife safaris or vineyard retreats

Top activities:

Winery tours in Stellenbosch, hikes in Table Mountain National Park, and beachside strategy sessions at Camps Bay.

 

3. Singapore

Why it’s ideal:

Clean, efficient, and future-facing, Singapore is one of Asia’s leading business hubs. It’s particularly suitable for tech companies, finance groups, and enterprises pursuing a high-functioning environment that doesn’t compromise on leisure. Its melting pot of cultures also allows teams to engage with multifarious experiences during their downtime.

Corporate advantages:

• Seamless event planning support from local providers
• Futuristic venues like Marina Bay Sands and Gardens by the Bay
• Safety, hygiene, and ease of navigation

Top activities:

Chinatown heritage trails, night safari team excursions, and rooftop cocktails at Ce La Vi.

 

4. Queenstown, New Zealand

Why it’s ideal:

For those willing to travel further afield, Queenstown is a reward in itself. This picturesque resort town, ringed by mountains and lakes, delivers adventure-based team-building activities with a strong emphasis on wellness and nature.

Corporate advantages:

• Ideal for incentive-based travel and creative thinking retreats
• A wide array of lodges and boutique hotels with MICE facilities
• Natural surroundings that support wellness-focused agendas

Top activities:

Bungee jumping, wine tastings, jet boating, and lakeside strategy sessions.

 

5. Tokyo, Japan

Why it’s ideal:

After reopening fully to international business travellers, Tokyo has re-emerged as a dynamic destination for corporate travel. The city boasts unmatched infrastructure, a deep sense of order, and a fascinating intersection between innovation and tradition. In summer, the city’s parks and rooftop venues come alive with open-air events.

Corporate advantages:

• Exceptional public transport
• Tech-savvy facilities for presentations and exhibitions
• High-quality hospitality and attention to detail

Top activities:

Sumo matches, sushi masterclasses, and meditation sessions in old temples.

 

6. Tbilisi, Georgia

Why it’s ideal:

A rising star on the MICE map, Georgia is a compelling mix of affordability, nature, culture, cuisine, and wine. Tbilisi, in particular, combines charming cobblestone streets and sulphur baths with a growing number of boutique hotels and meeting spaces. Visa-free access for UAE passport holders is another advantage.

Corporate advantages:

• Budget-friendly without compromising quality
• Strong support for small to mid-sized corporate groups
• One-of-a-kind team bonding activities in nearby mountain regions

Top activities:

Old Town scavenger hunts, culinary tours with local chefs, and visits to ancient sanctuaries.

 

7. Ljubljana, Slovenia

Why it’s ideal:

For companies wanting something fresh and less travelled, Ljubljana offers European charm in a compact, sustainable setting. With a strong emphasis on eco-friendly practices and green mobility, it’s a fantastic destination for companies with ESG goals. The surrounding lakes and mountains have uncharted, peaceful escapes within easy reach.

Corporate advantages:

• Great value for money
• Eco-certified venues and hotels
• Ideal for private leadership retreats or offsites

Top activities:

Kayaking down the Ljubljanica River, retreats on Lake Bled, and forest hikes with mindfulness workshops.

 

8. Riyadh, Saudi Arabia

Why it’s ideal:

Riyadh is positioning itself as a rising hub for business and innovation in the Middle East. With the Kingdom’s Vision 2030 rapidly evolving, the city boasts ambitious infrastructure, growing MICE capacity, and increasing ease for travellers. It’s especially valuable for companies based in the GCC looking for short-haul travel.

Corporate advantages:

• Excellent connectivity from the UAE
• Increasing number of luxury hotels and event spaces
• Opportunities to link business with cultural discovery

Top activities:

Visit Diriyah, desert glamping retreats, and exclusive corporate showcases in the King Abdullah Financial District.

 

Planning with ease

While these destinations vary in climate, cost, and culture, they all cater to the modern business traveller’s desire for experiences that go beyond the boardroom. Choosing the right destination also depends on the objectives of your travel—whether it’s a celebration, strategic planning, skill-building, or simply rewarding performance.

 

Having a dedicated corporate travel partner makes all the difference. Companies like Al Rostamani Travel bring decades of experience in planning tailored travel solutions across global destinations. From venue selection and logistics to on-ground execution and visa support, our corporate travel team helps you navigate every step with efficiency and care.

As we approach summer 2025, corporate travel is no longer just about movement—it’s about momentum. The right destination can unlock creativity, deepen connections, and align teams with a shared vision.

 

For more information, contact us at [email protected]