Bali Airport enhances travel experience

Bali Airport is committed to enhancing the travel experience for both domestic and international travelers. Starting in late 2023, the airport introduced new automatic gates to expedite immigration procedures, with plans for further expansion.

Recently, the management of Bali Airport apologized for any inconvenience caused by the installation of an additional 30 automatic gates in the international arrivals area. Senior officials have issued directives to expedite the installation process in preparation for the peak travel season, particularly for Australian vacationers.

Pramella Y Pasaribu, Chief of Bali’s Regional Office of the Ministry of Law and Human Rights, stated to the media, "Efforts are being directed towards completing this project earlier than initially planned."

Following the Eid festival, the airport intends to install 20 more automatic gates at the international departures terminal, bringing the total to 80 automatic gates at Bali Airport. The implementation of these gates has already improved the entry process for numerous visitors.

The management of Bali Airport aims to enhance passenger flow, especially during peak seasons when long queues at immigration counters can cause delays. Before the pandemic, travelers from various countries, including Australia, New Zealand, most European nations, and the United States, enjoyed visa-free entry. However, now visitors from over 90 countries must obtain a visa upon arrival, costing IDR 500,000 for a 30-day stay.

The introduction of new automatic gates significantly expedites the arrival and immigration process. Indonesian citizens, foreign nationals with electronic passports, and holders of electronic visas, including the e-Visa on Arrival, can utilize these gates. Expatriates in Bali with a KITAS, KITAP, or BVK registered on the Indonesian E-Visa platform are also eligible to use the automatic gates at Bali Airport and Jakarta’s Soekarno Hatta International Airport.

These gates utilize facial recognition technology and advanced border control systems for efficient entry processing. Tourists planning to visit Bali during the peak season, typically from late May to early September, are advised to arrange their electronic visas beforehand.

The electronic Visa on Arrival carries the same fee as the standard visa and can be applied for online. Families and groups can apply for the e-Visa on Arrival for up to five individuals at once, including children. The visa fee is IDR 500,000 per person and can be paid with a debit or credit card in Indonesian Rupiah.

Investment Opportunities in Bali’s Rental Market Amid Rising Tourist Influx

As Bali Airport continues to improve its infrastructure, particularly with the expansion of automatic gates, the anticipated surge in tourist arrivals presents promising investment opportunities in Bali’s rental property market.

The airport's efforts to enhance processing capabilities indicate Bali's readiness to accommodate a larger number of international visitors. This expected increase in tourism, especially during peak seasons, is likely to drive up demand for accommodations, making property investments in Bali increasingly appealing.

The convenience and efficiency provided by the new airport facilities ensure a smoother entry into Bali for tourists, enhancing the island’s allure as a holiday destination. This ease of access plays a crucial role in holiday planning and can influence repeat visits and longer stays.

Furthermore, the diverse demographics of tourists, including families, solo travelers, and groups, suggest a broad market for various rental properties. From luxury villas to budget-friendly apartments, Bali's rental market offers opportunities to cater to diverse needs.

Additionally, the alignment of the peak travel season with Australian vacation periods presents a targeted opportunity for property investors. Tailoring rental properties to appeal to Australian tourists could be a strategic move, given their significant contribution to Bali's tourist numbers.

Investors should also consider evolving preferences among travelers, who increasingly seek accommodations that offer both comfort and authentic experiences. Properties that reflect Bali’s unique culture and environment or provide special amenities and services are likely to be more appealing to the modern traveler.