Airbnb pumped billions into SA’s economy in 2022

Airbnb has more than doubled its contribution to South Africa’s economy since 2019.

A recent report by Genesis Analytics reveals that Airbnb contributed more than R23.5 billion to SA’s GDP in 2022, creating more than 50 000 jobs.

The growth in tourism was attributed to the increase in domestic travelers, who accounted for more than 60% of the total nights booked on the platform.

Velma Corcoran, Airbnb Regional Lead for Middle East Africa was thrilled at the strides made by the online platform in SA, since it was launched in 2015.

“We are proud to have more than doubled our economic impact, meaning more South Africans are benefiting from increasingly local and inclusive tourism,” she said.

Good numbers

According to the report, nationwide host earnings amounted to more than R4 billlion in 2022, with a typical host earning of about R32 500 on average.

• South Africans booking their stay with Airbnb increased by 34% in 2022 compared to 2019.
• 47% of surveyed guests chose AirBnB over alternatives to save money (up from 34% in 2021).
• 53% of hosts listed accommodation on Airbnb to cope with rising living costs.
• 64% of hosts are female – higher than the platforms 55% share of female hosts.

Top Airbnb destinations

South African cities with the fastest-growing Airbnb bookings.

1. Mafube, Free State
2. Impendle, KwaZulu-Natal
3. Nala, North West
4. AbaQulusi, KwaZulu-Natal
5. Witzenberg, Western Cape
6. Emalahleni, Mpumalanga
7. Hantam, Northern Cape
8. Mahikeng, North West
9. Chief Albert Luthuli, Mpumalanga
10. Emakhazeni, Mpumalanga

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Giving back

Airbnb has now pledged $500 000 (about R9 549 750) towards assisting non-profit organisations (NPOs) with digital access to enable sustainability.

The company announced on Tuesday, during the Africa Travel Summit in Johannesburg, plans to provide digital support to NPOs.

Corcoran said the pledge signified the company’s commitment to sustainable, diverse and inclusive tourism industry.

“We believe in the power of public and private sector partnerships to support this important work,” she said.

Airbnb plans to work with local stakeholders to identify organisations worth considering for awards and grants.

“We look forward to working together with governments, non-profits and tourism organisations across Africa to make tourism and hosting more accessible, safe, diverse, and affordable for everyone,” said Corcoran.

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