The number of international tourist arrivals recorded globally in 2024 was 1.4 billion, 99% of pre-pandemic 2019 levels, the United Nations Tourism (UN Tourism) said.
“Last year was a year of recovery for international tourism after the worst crisis in the industry’s history. Most destinations welcomed more international travelers in 2024 than before the pandemic, and their spending continued to grow strongly. In total, 1.4 billion tourists traveled internationally, an 11% increase from 2023, marking a 99% recovery to pre-pandemic levels,” the report said.
According to the organization, the growth is attributed to strong travel demand following the pandemic and the continued recovery of tourism in Asia-Pacific countries. The Middle East, Europe and Africa performed best in the recovery of tourist flows.
“The Middle East is the region with the largest growth in international tourism after the pandemic. It recorded 95 million tourist arrivals in 2024, up 32% from 2019. Africa welcomed 7% more tourists in 2024 than in 2019 (74 million), Europe by 1%. The European continent, which received 747 million foreign tourists or almost half of the total international flow, remains the world’s most attractive region for tourism,” the report said.
According to UN Tourism, all European countries surpassed 2019 levels with the exception of Central and Eastern European states.
“The Americas welcomed 213 million tourists, just 3% less than in 2019. The Caribbean and Central America have already exceeded pre-pandemic levels. The Asia-Pacific region continues to recover international tourist flows. It welcomed 316 million tourists in 2024, 87% of 2019 levels. Compared to 2023, arrivals are up 33%,” the organization said.
