AGP Executive Report

Aviation & Tourism Demand: Europe logged record summer air traffic despite Middle East war disruptions, averaging 35,959 flights a day (up 2.4% vs 2025) and hitting 37,640 flights on July 10, with 72.6% arriving on time; Eurocontrol says the conflict pushed more holidaying within Europe and drove “high increase” traffic to countries including North Macedonia. Border & Travel Disruption Watch: Bulgaria’s foreign ministry warned of coordinated strike action by carriers and heavy goods vehicles from Serbia and Bosnia and Herzegovina on Sept. 14, with Montenegro and North Macedonia also expected to join, advising travelers to check traffic and consider alternative routes. Dining & City Life: TGI Fridays signed a landmark development deal with Devolli Group for its first expansion into North Macedonia (plus Kosovo and Albania), with 10 restaurants planned across the three markets. Culture Tourism Link: Abu Dhabi’s International Book Fair opened with Balkan Culture as Guest of Honour in collaboration with North Macedonia, spotlighting regional heritage through literature and events. Travel Inspiration: A new study ranks the world’s most “eye-catching” cycling routes, with Europe dominating the top picks—good fuel for planning two-wheel holidays.

Aviation & Tourism Demand: Europe hit its busiest summer skies on record, averaging 35,959 flights a day from July to August (+2.4% vs 2025), with 72.6% arriving on time; Eurocontrol says the Middle East war influenced travel, but also pushed more Europeans to holiday closer to home—driving “high increases” in Albania, Croatia, Greece, Montenegro, North Macedonia, and Serbia. Road Travel Disruption: Bulgaria’s foreign ministry warns of coordinated strike action on Sept. 14 involving carriers and heavy goods vehicles from Serbia, Bosnia and Herzegovina, with North Macedonia also expected to join, potentially affecting land border crossings near the Schengen area—drivers are urged to check traffic and consider alternative routes. Culture & Travel Spotlight: Abu Dhabi International Book Fair opened under UAE President patronage, with Balkan Culture as Guest of Honour in collaboration with North Macedonia—an event that could boost regional cultural visibility for travelers. Tourism Business: TGI Fridays signed a development deal with Devolli Group for its first expansion into North Macedonia (plus Kosovo and Albania), planning 10 restaurants across the three markets.

Cultural Tourism Boost: The 35th Abu Dhabi International Book Fair opened at ADNEC Centre Abu Dhabi under UAE President patronage, running Sept 13–18 with 1,500+ cultural events and a “Turn the Page, Read the World” theme. Balkan Spotlight: North Macedonia is featured via the Guest of Honour pavilion “Balkan Culture,” giving a fresh international stage to regional heritage, literature and music. Regional Travel Demand: Eurocontrol reports Europe’s summer skies hit a record 35,959 flights a day (July–August), with notable growth in tourist traffic including North Macedonia—good news for inbound planning. On-the-Ground Hospitality: TGI Fridays signed a development deal with Devolli Group for its first expansion into Kosovo, Albania and North Macedonia, aiming to open 10 restaurants across the three markets. Health & Safety Watch: North Macedonia is seeing a West Nile virus surge, with intensified mosquito spraying and heightened guidance for people over 60.

Cultural Tourism Spotlight: The 35th Abu Dhabi International Book Fair opened at ADNEC under UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, running Sept 13–18 with 1,500+ events and Balkan Culture as Guest of Honour in collaboration with North Macedonia—an easy win for regional cultural visibility. Air Travel Demand: Eurocontrol reports Europe’s summer skies were at a record high despite Middle East war disruptions, with notable traffic growth including North Macedonia. Cycling Holidays: New research highlights rising interest in cycling trips (292% search growth for “cycling holiday”), with Europe dominating the most eye-catching routes list—good news for fall planning. Hospitality & Dining: TGI Fridays signed a landmark development deal with Devolli Group for its first expansion into North Macedonia (plus Kosovo and Albania), aiming for 10 restaurants across the three markets. Health & Travel Safety: Skopje’s Infectious Diseases Clinic reports an increase in West Nile virus cases, with eight hospitalized and a death count rising—authorities are stepping up mosquito control. Tourism Inspiration: A travel feature promotes a luxury Balkan rail journey through the region, including stops that connect well with North Macedonia itineraries.

Air Travel Pulse: Eurocontrol reports Europe’s summer skies hit a record 35,959 flights a day (up 2.4% vs 2025), with big increases in Albania, Croatia, Cyprus, Greece, Montenegro, North Macedonia, Serbia and Slovenia—good news for inbound planning. Border & Road Disruptions: Bulgaria’s foreign ministry warns of coordinated carrier strikes and heavy-vehicle blockades on Sept 14, with North Macedonia among the countries expected to join, urging travelers to check traffic and consider alternate routes. Tourism-Linked Dining Expansion: TGI Fridays signs a development deal with Devolli Group for its first expansion into Kosovo, Albania and North Macedonia, with 10 restaurants planned across the three markets. Health Alert for Visitors: Skopje’s Infectious Diseases Clinic reports eight hospitalized neuroinvasive West Nile virus cases and a total of eight deaths as of September 2026, with intensified mosquito spraying and guidance for people over 60. Independence Day Context: Kazakhstan’s president congratulates North Macedonia on Independence Day, underscoring regional diplomatic visibility. Travel Inspiration: A fall-focused travel roundup highlights European cities as cheaper and less crowded in autumn, feeding demand for shoulder-season trips.

Aviation & Tourism Demand: Eurocontrol reports Europe’s skies hit a record during the July–August holiday rush, averaging 35,959 flights per day (+2.4% vs 2025) and peaking at 37,640 flights on July 10—despite Middle East war disruptions. Regional Travel Boost for North Macedonia: Eurocontrol says traffic fell in some countries but surged in Albania, Croatia, Cyprus, Greece, Montenegro, North Macedonia, Serbia and Slovenia, reflecting a shift toward “safer” intra-Europe holidays. Border & Transport Disruption Watch: Bosnia and Herzegovina’s transport minister warns coordinated carrier protests are planned for Sept. 14 at EU border crossings, tied to the Schengen 90/180 rule for professional drivers—potentially affecting travel routes through the Western Balkans including North Macedonia. New Hospitality Investment: TGI Fridays signs a landmark development deal with Devolli Group for its first-ever expansion into North Macedonia (plus Kosovo and Albania), with 10 restaurants planned across the three markets. Public Health Alert: Skopje’s Infectious Diseases Clinic reports eight hospitalized neuroinvasive West Nile virus cases and a new death, as authorities intensify mosquito spraying and guidance for people over 60.

Aviation & Tourism Demand: Eurocontrol reports Europe hit record summer air traffic in July–August despite Middle East war disruptions, with a big rise in flights to North Macedonia (alongside Albania, Croatia, Greece, Montenegro, Serbia and Slovenia). Border & Transport Disruption: Bulgaria’s Foreign Ministry warns of coordinated carrier blockades at land border crossings on Sept. 14, with heavy goods transport affected across Serbia, Bosnia and Herzegovina, North Macedonia and Montenegro, including routes toward Schengen. Hospitality Expansion: TGI Fridays signs a landmark development deal with Devolli Group for its first expansion into Kosovo, Albania and North Macedonia—10 restaurants planned across the three markets. Public Health Alert: Skopje’s Infectious Diseases Clinic reports eight hospitalized neuroinvasive West Nile virus cases and an eighth death; authorities have intensified mosquito spraying and issued guidance, especially for people over 60. Travel Safety Reminder: The 17th anniversary of the Ilinden ship tragedy was marked in Ohrid, where 15 Bulgarian tourists died when a boat capsized in 2009.

TGI Fridays Expansion: TGI Fridays has signed a landmark development deal with Devolli Group for its first-ever expansion into Kosovo, Albania, and North Macedonia, with 10 planned restaurants across the three markets—good news for visitors looking for familiar dining options in the Balkans. Border Disruption Alert: North Macedonia and other regional carriers are expected to join a September 14 strike by carriers from Serbia and Bosnia and Herzegovina, with heavy-goods terminals blocked at land borders—travelers should plan routes and check traffic early. Health & Safety: Skopje is reporting an increase in neuroinvasive West Nile virus cases, with eight patients hospitalized and an eighth death recorded; authorities are running mosquito spraying and urging extra caution for people over 60. Tourism & Travel Inspiration: Travel And Tour World named the world’s top shopping destinations for 2026, with London leading—useful for travelers planning city breaks and “shop + culture” trips. Travel Experience Spotlight: A new luxury rail journey highlights the Balkans by train, including routes through former Yugoslav countries and ending in Istanbul, positioning the region as a comfortable, scenic alternative to flights. Regional Business Context: A report on Portugal’s housing boom also notes North Macedonia’s rising real house prices, a reminder that investment interest across Europe can shape future travel demand.

TGI Fridays Expansion: TGI Fridays is set to enter the Balkans with Devolli Group, with plans for 10 restaurants across Kosovo, Albania, and North Macedonia—a clear signal of growing hospitality investment in the region. Health Alert (West Nile): Skopje’s Infectious Diseases Clinic reports eight hospitalized cases of neuroinvasive West Nile virus and a weekend death; authorities have intensified mosquito control and issued extra guidance, especially for people over 60. Independence Day Diplomacy: Kazakhstan’s president sent congratulations to North Macedonia’s leader on Independence Day, underlining continued interest in broader cooperation. Travel & Culture (Ohrid): Ohrid marked the 17th anniversary of the Ilinden ship tragedy with memorial activities at the lakeside monument—an important moment for visitors and heritage-minded travelers. Tourism Planning (Autumn Europe): Travel experts highlight that fall can mean fewer crowds and better prices across Europe, with city-break ideas that could fit well with North Macedonia add-ons. Sports & Travel Links: Switzerland’s Noah Okafor says he won’t play under coach Murat Yakin; Switzerland’s Nations League opener is in North Macedonia, keeping regional match travel on the radar.

West Nile Virus Update (Skopje): North Macedonia reports 8 hospitalized cases of neuroinvasive West Nile virus in Skopje, with an 8th death confirmed; authorities have intensified mosquito spraying and issued extra precautions for people over 60 and those on immunosuppressive therapy. New Dining in the Balkans: TGI Fridays signs a landmark development deal with Devolli Group to open 10 restaurants across Kosovo, Albania, and North Macedonia—its first expansion into the three markets. Air Travel & Mobility: Tirana International Airport leads the Balkan region for the first half of 2026 with 6 million+ passengers (+17%); Skopje follows with 1.8 million. Regional Travel Demand (Football): Scotland’s Nations League trip includes a match in North Macedonia (Oct 3), with Slovenia vs Scotland ticket guidance also circulating for the Ljubljana leg. Tourism Safety & Health Context: The West Nile outbreak adds a public-health layer for late-summer and early-autumn travel planning in affected municipalities. Balkan Travel Inspiration: A luxury rail journey highlights the Balkans route from Venice to Istanbul, including stops through former Yugoslav countries.

West Nile Update (Skopje): Eight patients with neuroinvasive West Nile virus are hospitalized at Skopje’s Infectious Diseases Clinic, with a reported eighth death; authorities have intensified mosquito control, including aerial and ground spraying, and issued new guidance as cases rise across multiple municipalities. Dining & Tourism Growth (Balkans): TGI Fridays signed a landmark development deal with Devolli Group to open 10 restaurants across Kosovo, Albania, and North Macedonia—its first expansion into the Balkans—boosting the region’s hospitality pipeline. Travel Inspiration (Rail): A luxury sleeper-rail journey through former Yugoslav countries highlights a comfortable way to explore the Balkans, with routes including Slovenia, Croatia, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Serbia, and Bulgaria. Regional Energy Connectivity: Greece and Balkan partners signed an MoU to extend the Vertical Gas Corridor toward North Macedonia and Serbia, aiming to strengthen cross-border energy links that can support broader travel and business movement. Independence Day Diplomacy: Kazakhstan’s president sent congratulations to North Macedonia’s leader on Independence Day, underscoring ongoing diplomatic ties. Ohrid Remembrance: The 17th anniversary of the Ilinden ship tragedy was marked in Ohrid, with flowers laid at the lakeside monument for the 15 victims. Autumn City Travel Tips: Travel experts share European cities that shine in fall, pointing to fewer crowds and better prices for seasonal trips. Tourism Safety Note (Health): With the West Nile situation worsening, older travelers and those with health risks are urged to take extra precautions while planning visits.

Luxury Rail Travel: Golden Eagle Luxury Trains’ Danube Express is being pitched as a “hotel on wheels” for an 11-night, comfort-first Balkans route from Venice to Istanbul, passing through Slovenia, Croatia, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Serbia and Bulgaria—an angle that will resonate with Macedonian travelers looking for inland, scenic rail holidays. Dining & Tourism Economy: TGI Fridays has signed a development deal with Devolli Group for its first-ever expansion into Kosovo, Albania and North Macedonia, with 10 planned restaurants across the three markets—good news for visitors who want familiar international dining options. Public Health & Safety: Skopje is reporting eight hospitalized cases of neuroinvasive West Nile virus, alongside a weekend death; authorities have intensified mosquito control and issued updated guidance, especially for people over 60 and those on immunosuppressive therapy. Regional Connectivity: Greece and Balkan partners signed an MoU to extend the Vertical Gas Corridor toward North Macedonia and Serbia, reinforcing cross-border infrastructure that can indirectly support travel and business links. Travel Inspiration (Seasonal): Travel experts are pushing Europe’s autumn cities as a sweet spot for fewer crowds and lower prices, feeding demand for shoulder-season breaks that include the wider Balkans. Independence Day Context: Kazakhstan’s president sent congratulations to North Macedonia’s leader on Independence Day, a reminder of the country’s growing visibility in regional diplomacy.

Hospitality & Tourism Investment: TGI Fridays has signed a landmark development deal with Devolli Group to bring 10 new TGI Fridays restaurants to Kosovo, Albania, and North Macedonia, marking the brand’s first expansion into the country and a push for long-term growth across Southeast Europe. Public Health: Skopje’s Infectious Diseases Clinic is treating eight confirmed neuroinvasive West Nile virus patients, with a reported eighth death; authorities have intensified mosquito spraying and issued updated guidance, especially for people over 60 and those on immunosuppressive therapy. Travel & Mobility (Regional Context): A “smart border” meeting between Kazakhstan’s president and the WCO chief highlighted digital customs upgrades—relevant to smoother cross-border logistics for travelers and cargo across connected routes. Culture & Travel Inspiration: Travel experts are recommending European cities that shine in autumn, while Euronews’ fall holiday bucket list points to seasonal trips that could boost off-peak tourism planning for the region.

Public Health Alert: Skopje’s Infectious Diseases Clinic reports eight hospitalized cases of neuroinvasive West Nile virus, with two in intensive care and a weekend death of a 70-year-old from Dracevo; authorities say none recently traveled abroad and have launched intensified mosquito spraying plus updated guidance urging extra caution for people over 60 and immunosuppressed patients. Tourism & Hospitality Expansion: TGI Fridays™ is partnering with Devolli Group for its first-ever Balkans expansion, bringing the brand to Kosovo, Albania, and North Macedonia—good news for visitors looking for familiar dining and nightlife options. Regional Travel Context: Greece and Balkan partners have signed an MoU to extend the Vertical Gas Corridor to North Macedonia and Serbia, a reminder that infrastructure projects can shape future travel and business connectivity. Cross-Border Tensions: A court case involving dual Bulgarian-Macedonian citizen Iva Mihaylova has reopened a Sofia–Skopje dispute, with Bulgaria using the medical-treatment restrictions linked to a Kočani crash as pressure in North Macedonia’s EU path. Travel Safety Memory: Ohrid marked the 17th anniversary of the Ilinden ship tragedy that killed 15 Bulgarian tourists, with flowers laid at the lakeside monument.

Balkan EU Access Tension: A fatal crash case involving dual Bulgarian-Macedonian citizen Iva Mihaylova is reigniting Sofia–Skopje friction, with Bulgaria citing issues in North Macedonia’s justice system and pushing EU monitoring as her passport travel ban and medical-treatment refusals continue. Regional Energy Connectivity: Greece, North Macedonia and Serbia signed an MoU to extend the Vertical Gas Corridor, aiming to strengthen cross-border energy security and north-south gas flows. Tourism Timing for Travelers: Travel experts highlight why autumn can be the sweet spot for European city breaks—fewer crowds and often better prices—while Euronews shares its seasonal holiday picks. EU Tourism Snapshot: Eurostat reports EU overnight stays rose 1.7% in the first half of 2026, with foreign tourists driving nearly half of all stays. Workforce & Travel-Linked Services: North Macedonia’s growing reliance on foreign workers is rising alongside local unemployment, with demand strongest in accommodation and food services. Lake Ohrid Remembrance: Bulgaria marked the 17th anniversary of the Ilinden ship disaster in Ohrid, where 15 Bulgarian tourists died. Culture & Film: A Mother Teresa documentary premiered in Kolkata on her feast day, drawing more than 200 attendees.

Bilateral Tensions: A fatal crash near Kočani has turned into a fresh Bulgaria–North Macedonia dispute, with Sofia using the case of dual citizen Iva Mihaylova to pressure Skopje over access to medical treatment and the wider EU path. Legal & Mobility Impact: Mihaylova’s passports have been seized and multiple requests to travel for treatment have been rejected, with talk of a possible European Court of Human Rights move. Tourism Safety Memory: In Ohrid, Bulgaria marked the 17th anniversary of the Ilinden ship disaster that killed 15 Bulgarian tourists, with flowers laid at the lakeside monument. Regional Travel Context: Western Balkan professional truckers staged protests in Skopje and other cities over Schengen’s 90-days-in-180 rule, warning of renewed freight blockades from mid-September—an issue that can quickly affect cross-border travel and logistics. Tourism Demand Signals: North Macedonia’s accommodation and food services are among sectors seeking foreign workers, reflecting ongoing staffing pressure that can shape visitor experiences.