International Tourism maintains momentum with 5% Growth in Q1 2025

30-05-25

International tourism continued its upward trajectory in 2025, recording a 5% increase in international tourist arrivals during the first quarter of the year compared to the same period in 2024. This growth reflects the resilience of the sector in the face of ongoing challenges such as high inflation, geopolitical tensions, and trade disruptions. According to the World Tourism Organization (UNWTO), more than 300 million international travelers were registered between January and March 2025, 14 million more than during the same period last year, and 3% above pre-pandemic levels recorded in 2019.

The report emphasizes that, despite adverse global conditions, the demand for international travel remains robust. International air traffic grew by 8% compared to Q1 2024, while global hotel occupancy rates held steady at 64% in March. This positive performance is attributed to improved air connectivity, the easing of travel restrictions, and increased consumer confidence in the safety of destinations.

International tourism revenues also showed significant gains in several countries. France recorded a 6% increase, Norway 20%, and other European destinations reported notable revenue growth. These results reflect not only a rise in visitor numbers but also increased spending per tourist, driven by a more diverse and higher-value tourism offering.

Regionally, Africa led the way with a 9% increase in international arrivals, surpassing pre-pandemic levels by 16%. Europe and the Americas posted 2% growth, while the Middle East saw a 1% rise. These varying rates of growth across regions underline the need for tailored strategies that address each market's specific conditions and promote a balanced, sustainable recovery for the global tourism sector.

Looking ahead, UNWTO maintains a positive outlook for the rest of 2025, forecasting international arrivals to grow between 3% and 5% by the end of the year. However, it warns of key challenges that could impact traveler confidence and the long-term sustainability of the recovery, including rising travel costs, trade tensions, and geopolitical instability.

In this context, UNWTO calls on governments and the private sector to continue working together to implement policies that promote innovation, sustainability, and resilience in tourism. Investment in infrastructure, workforce training, and digital technologies will be critical to consolidating the recovery and ensuring that tourism remains a powerful engine for global economic and social development.

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