Hotels and Airbnb accommodations in Nadi are expected to be fully booked ahead of the highly anticipated UB40 concert featuring Ali Campbell and Katchafire, set for January 30. Lawrence Kumar, president of the Nadi Chamber of Commerce, shared that many hotel rooms have already been reserved by both local and international attendees.
“The outlook for the UB40 and Katchafire concert is promising,” Kumar commented. He conveyed insights from members of the hotel and tourism sectors, who project that room occupancy rates will remain high leading up to the event, highlighting the strong demand from early reservations.
This concert is expected to be a significant catalyst for economic activity in the Nadi region. “Such an event is likely to drive considerable economic growth, particularly in the transport and tax sectors,” Kumar noted. He emphasized that the influx of concert-goers will increase demand for transportation services, benefiting local residents and international visitors eager to experience the event.
Furthermore, micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) are anticipated to thrive due to this event. Kumar mentioned that local food vendors and merchandise producers, including those selling UB40-themed T-shirts, are likely to gain from the concert’s widespread appeal.
“This concert is expected to trigger significant economic activity, not just in Nadi but throughout the entire country,” he remarked. In preparation for the expected surge of visitors, Nadi businesses have leveraged insights from past successful events, including two notable homecoming concerts held in 2024 and 2025, to be ready to accommodate guests.
The enthusiasm for this concert reflects not only a celebration of music but also a crucial moment for economic development in the region. Large gatherings of this nature not only provide entertainment but also foster community resilience and open up new business opportunities, showcasing the vibrant spirit of Nadi. This event is a promising indication of a thriving local economy and an opportunity for growth that can resonate beyond the concert itself.