Tourism set to surpass pre-pandemic milestones by end of 2024

05-12-24

The global tourism sector welcomed 1.1 billion international travelers during the first nine months of 2024, reaching 98% of its pre-pandemic activity, according to the World Tourism Barometer by UN Tourism. Despite ongoing economic, geopolitical, and climate challenges, a full recovery from the pandemic’s devastating impact is expected by the end of the year.

Four years after the COVID-19 pandemic halted global travel, most regions have already surpassed their 2019 arrival numbers between January and September 2024. Regions like the Middle East (+29%) and Africa (+6%) posted growth beyond pre-pandemic levels, while Europe (+1%) and the Americas (-3%) closely matched 2019 figures. Asia and the Pacific, though still recovering unevenly, achieved 85% of pre-pandemic arrivals compared to just 66% in 2023.

Among the standout performers, Qatar saw a 141% surge in arrivals compared to 2019, followed by Albania (+77%) and Saudi Arabia (+61%). Other destinations, including Curaçao (+48%), Tanzania (+43%), and Colombia (+36%), also reported significant growth, reflecting strong global demand and the benefits of improved air connectivity and visa facilitation.

Visitor spending has grown even faster than international arrivals, delivering significant economic benefits worldwide. A total of 35 out of 43 countries with available data recorded tourism earnings surpassing pre-pandemic levels, often by double digits. Serbia led with a 99% increase, while Japan (+59%), Türkiye (+41%), and France (+27%) reported notable growth. The United States, the top global earner, posted a 7% increase in receipts by September.

Major source markets have driven expenditure growth, with Germany (+35%), the United States (+33%), and France (+11%) leading the way. The United Kingdom recorded an impressive 46% rise in outbound spending, followed by Australia (+34%), Canada (+28%), and India (+81%), highlighting their critical role in the recovery of global tourism.

By the end of 2024, international tourist arrivals are projected to return to 2019 levels. While some regions, such as North-East Asia and Central Eastern Europe, still lag in recovery, destinations in the Middle East, Central America, and the Caribbean have already surpassed pre-pandemic milestones. The increase in average spending per trip, supported by longer stays, has contributed to robust export revenues.

Despite this strong performance, several hurdles remain. Rising travel costs, including elevated transport and accommodation prices, volatile oil markets, and inflation, challenge the sector. Geopolitical tensions, staff shortages, and extreme weather events further threaten the pace of recovery. Nevertheless, the sector’s resilience continues to shine, driving jobs and economic benefits worldwide.