Global tourism surpasses pre-pandemic levels in 2024
February 10, 2025
Travel

Global tourism surpasses pre-pandemic levels in 2024

Arrivals soar to 1.4 billion

International tourism achieved a major milestone in 2024, with global arrivals soaring to 1.4 billion, marking a near-complete recovery from the devastating impacts of the Covid-19 pandemic.

The surge in traveller numbers represents a 99% return to pre-pandemic levels, with an 11% increase over 2023, equating to 140 million more international arrivals globally. The growth was driven by strong post-pandemic demand, robust performance from key source markets, and the resurgence of destinations in Asia and the Pacific.

According to the latest World Tourism Barometer from UN Tourism, international tourist arrivals in 2024 matched pre-pandemic levels, with a notable resurgence across several key regions. As the sector recovers, global tourism’s economic impact continues to grow, with spending rising across most destinations.

Middle East

The Middle East emerged as the strongest performer relative to 2019, with arrivals increasing by 32% in 2024 compared to pre-pandemic levels. While the region saw a slight 1% increase over 2023, its performance remains impressive, with 95 million arrivals recorded for the year. Africa also witnessed strong results, with 74 million arrivals, a 7% increase over 2019, and a 12% growth compared to 2023.

Europe

Europe, the largest destination region globally, experienced 747 million international arrivals in 2024, 1% higher than in 2019 and 5% higher than in 2023. However, Central and Eastern Europe remained subdued due to the ongoing effects of the Russian invasion of Ukraine. The Americas recorded 213 million arrivals, recovering 97% of pre-pandemic numbers, with the Caribbean and Central America already surpassing 2019 levels.

Asia Pacific

Asia Pacific saw a 33% surge in international arrivals, reaching 316 million in 2024. While still 13% below pre-pandemic levels, this improvement from 66% at the end of 2023 highlights the region’s rapid recovery. North Africa and Central America stood out with the most substantial growth, with 22% and 17% more international arrivals than before the pandemic.

UN Tourism Secretary-General Zurab Pololikashvili noted that 2024 marked a full recovery for the global tourism sector. In many places, tourist arrivals and earnings are already higher than in 2019. “

“This growth reflects the resilience of the tourism industry, contributing significantly to the socio-economic development of both mature and emerging destinations.”

Several countries saw impressive growth in international tourist arrivals, with El Salvador, Saudi Arabia, Ethiopia, and Morocco all-surpassing pre-pandemic levels by wide margins. El Salvador led the way, with an 81% increase in arrivals, while Saudi Arabia recorded a 69% jump. Other countries like Qatar and Albania also saw double-digit growth in 2024 compared to 2019.

This robust recovery is reflected in the tourism industry’s performance indicators. International air capacity and traffic nearly returned to pre-pandemic levels, with global accommodation occupancy rates reaching 66% in November 2024. Furthermore, tourism exports set a new record of $1.9 trillion in 2024, up 3% from 2019, with international tourism receipts growing by 4% in real terms.

The UK’s tourism sector and other major earners, such as Spain, France, and Italy, saw significant growth in tourism receipts during the first nine to eleven months of 2024. The UK experienced a 40% increase compared to 2019, reflecting its continued appeal as a travel destination.

Looking ahead, the outlook for 2025 remains positive, with international tourist arrivals expected to grow by 3% to 5% compared to 2024. This growth is anticipated to be driven by ongoing recovery in Asia Pacific and solid expansion in other regions. However, challenges remain, including high transport and accommodation costs, geopolitical risks, and extreme weather events, threatening the sector’s stability.

The UN Tourism Confidence Index for 2025 is optimistic, with 64% of experts expecting a better outlook for the year ahead. Despite these challenges, sustainable tourism practices and exploring lesser-known destinations are expected to remain key trends in the evolving tourism landscape.

As international tourism recovers, balancing growth with sustainability will ensure that tourism contributes positively to the global economy while safeguarding the planet for future generations.

Image: The Middle East emerged as the strongest performer relative to 2019, with arrivals increasing by 32% in 2024 compared to pre-pandemic levels. Credit: Tirachard Kumtanom

Arnold Pinto

Arnold Pinto

Arnold Pinto is an award-winning journalist with wide-ranging Middle East and Asia experience in the tech, aerospace, defence, luxury watchmaking, business, automotive, and fashion verticals. He is passionate about conserving endangered native wildlife globally. Arnold enjoys 4x4 off-roading, camping and exploring global destinations off the beaten track. Write to: arnold@menews247.com
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