The Middle East has been the best performing region, outperforming by 32% on 2019 levels and 1% on 2023 levels. Africa has also recorded remarkable growth, with 7% more arrivals compared to pre-pandemic values. Europe, being the world's largest tourist destination, has managed to outperform its 2019 records by 1%, while the Americas has reached 97% recovery and Asia-Pacific 87%, still affected by restrictions and adjustments in international air mobility.
The report also highlights the continued increase in international tourism receipts, which in 2024 reached USD 1.6 trillion, 3% higher than in 2023 and 4% higher than in 2019 in real terms. These results reflect not only an increase in visitor numbers, but also higher tourism spending, influenced by increased demand for high-end experiences and extended stays.
Within the analysis of the most dynamic markets, the main regions and countries that have led the recovery in terms of arrivals and tourism expenditure were identified. Destinations in the Middle East, Europe and Latin America have stood out for their rapid recovery, while traditional source markets, such as the United States, China and several European economies, have driven global tourism flows.
The UN Tourism Confidence Index reveals moderate optimism for 2025. According to the organisation's Panel of Experts, international arrivals are projected to grow by 3% to 5%, provided economic conditions remain favourable, inflation continues to decline and there is no escalation in geopolitical conflicts. This forecast suggests a stabilisation of the sector and the consolidation of emerging trends in the industry, such as the digitalisation of tourism, sustainability and destination diversification.
Among the main challenges identified for the coming year are global economic uncertainty, fluctuations in air transport costs and geopolitical tensions in various regions. However, the resilience demonstrated by the sector and the adaptation strategies implemented by governments and tourism businesses suggest that the recovery is sustainable and will continue its upward trajectory in the coming years.
With this near full recovery of international tourism, expectations for growth and strengthening of the sector as a key pillar of global economic development are reaffirmed. The UN Tourism World Tourism Barometer report highlights the importance of continuing to promote policies that drive sustainability, innovation and inclusiveness in the industry, thus ensuring that tourism is an engine of prosperity and well-being for all communities globally.
