Travel Industry Mourns the Loss of Nexion’s Robbi Jumaa Hamida

Robbi Jumaa Hamida, a beloved executive at Nexion Travel Group, passed away on July 4, 2025, at the age of 50. Jackie Friedman, president of Nexion Travel, shared the news of his passing on Facebook.

“It is with deep sadness and a heavy heart that I share the passing of our beloved colleague and dear friend, Robbi Hamida, after a brave and unwavering battle with cancer.

“Robbi faced his illness with the same courage, grace, and positivity that defined him in all he did. His leadership, wisdom, and unwavering commitment to the travel industry touched the lives of so many—both within Nexion and across our broader travel community of partners and advisors.

“He was more than a leader—he was an inspiration, a friend and even a bit of a fashionista. We will never forget Robbi’s wardrobe of colorful suits he wore at CoNexion. Robbi had a gift for bringing people together and a rare ability to make everyone feel seen and valued. His impact reached far beyond the walls of Nexion and will continue to ripple throughout the entire travel community he loved so deeply.

“Though we grieve his loss, we also honor the extraordinary life he lived—a life filled with purpose, generosity, and love. Robbi leaves behind a legacy that will forever be part of who we are.”

According to his obituary, Hamida’s passion for travel began with a love of aviation, beginning his career in 1995 with United Airlines. From the airlines, he moved to the travel trade side with a stint at American Express Travel in Atlanta, before he founded Tur Travel in 2003. He joined Nexion in 2008, where he remained until his passing.

Hamida’s contributions to the travel industry were recognized with several awards, including the ARC Travel Agency Representative of the Year in 2018 and Delta Air Line’s Keep Climbing award in 2024, a first for a nonemployee.

In a post on LinkedIn, Charles Sylvia, vice president of industry and trade relations at the Cruise Lines International Association, wrote:

“With heavy hearts, the CLIA North American Travel Trade Membership team joins our industry family in mourning the loss of Robbi Hamida of Nexion Travel Group. Robbi’s unwavering courage, grace, and positivity, especially during his brave battle with cancer, inspired all who knew him… Robbi’s legacy of generosity, purpose, and love will continue to ripple through our industry. We honor his extraordinary life and the indelible mark he leaves on all of us.”

Michelle Sutter, a former Holland America Line executive, shared her memories of Hamida on LinkedIn as well.

“I will always remember Robbi for his authenticity and genuine kindness. I’m grateful for having had the opportunity to share time with him.”