Durban braces for Easter surge as mayor unveils safety plan

eThekwini mayor Cyril Xaba says Durban is ready to receive an expected influx of more than 1.2 million visitors over the Easter holiday period, with a comprehensive safety and tourism plan in place to manage the surge. Briefing the media on the city’s Easter campaign preparedness, Xaba said the municipality was building on the success of the 2025 festive season to ensure a safe and vibrant holiday. The city expects the Easter period to generate a direct economic injection of more than R2.6 billion, with accommodation occupancy projected at 62% and around 16 000 job opportunities anticipated.

“We are ready to welcome both local and international visitors to our shores,” said Xaba, adding that the city’s priority was to ensure tourists stay longer and spend more. Durban’s growing appeal has been boosted by its recent ranking among the world’s top travel destinations, placing 14th out of 100 cities in a global survey by Time Out Worldwide. A packed events calendar is expected to draw crowds, with major concerts, cultural showcases and family-friendly activities planned throughout the holiday period.

Attractions such as uShaka Marine Theme Park, Mitchell Park Zoo and the Durban Botanic Gardens will host special programmes aimed at keeping children entertained during the school break. Safety remains central to the city’s plan, with more than 1 000 law enforcement officers to be deployed across Durban. Metro Police, SAPS and other agencies will conduct 24-hour patrols, roadblocks and compliance inspections targeting crime, drunk driving and unroadworthy vehicles.

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“We have pulled out all the stops to ensure high visibility policing,” Xaba said. Authorities will also monitor churches, shopping centres and entertainment venues, where large gatherings are expected over the Easter weekend. The mayor welcomed the reappointment of KwaZulu-Natal police commissioner Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi, saying his leadership would strengthen crime-fighting efforts during the busy period.

Durban’s beaches — a major attraction — will all remain open, with 23 bathing beaches declared safe for swimming. The city has invested more than R1.2 billion in sanitation infrastructure upgrades to maintain water quality.

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