International tourism closes 2024 with full recovery and record spending figures

22-12-24

International tourism is on track to fully reach pre-pandemic levels before the end of the year, according to the latest World Tourism Barometer from the World Tourism Organization (UNWTO). During the first nine months of 2024, 1.1 billion international tourist arrivals were recorded, representing an 11% increase compared to the same period in 2023 and 98% of 2019 levels. This progress has been driven by remarkable growth in average spending per tourist, improved air connectivity and the removal of barriers such as visa facilitation in several key regions.

The UNWTO report highlights a 2024 marked by a strong rebound in tourism demand following the pandemic years. It also reveals that tourism receipts have significantly exceeded pre-pandemic levels in many destinations, reflecting an increase in average spending per visitor. In particular, regions such as the Middle East and Africa have led global growth, while Europe and the Americas show a robust and sustained recovery.