Robust Rebound in Global Tourism as International Visitor Arrivals Nearly Reach 96% of 2019 Figures by July 2024
International tourism is soaring, almost reaching pre-pandemic levels, with the initial seven months of 2024 exhibiting a staggering 96% recovery compared to 2019. Roughly 790 million people traversed international boundaries from January to July 2024, marking a 11% uptick from 2023. The resurgence of tourism can be attributed to a robust European market and the reawakening of Asian destinations.
Data from the UN Tourism Barometer indicates a powerful upswing at the start of 2024, albeit the growth rate moderated mid-year. Despite looming economic and geopolitical uncertainties, the report predicts a complete recovery this year.
The Middle East emerges as the global growth leader, reporting a jaw-dropping 26% increase in international arrivals compared to 2019. Africa, too, sees growth with a 7% surge in tourists over pre-pandemic levels. Europe and the Americas are close to completely recovering, registering 99% and 97% of their 2019 visitor numbers, respectively. Asia and the Pacific are following suit, reaching 86% of their pre-pandemic levels by July.
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Sixty-seven countries have already recovered their 2019 levels of arrivals, with Qatar, Albania, and El Salvador spearheading the charge in growth. Qatar experienced an astonishing 147% increase in tourists compared to 2019, while Albania and El Salvador saw growth of 93% and 81%, respectively.
Tourist receipts also boast positive trends. Forty-seven countries with available data have recovered pre-pandemic levels by mid-2024, with some countries witnessing double-digit growth. Albania and Serbia stood out with significant increases in receipts compared to 2019, as well as countries like Tajikistan, Pakistan, and Montenegro, which reported growth of over 70%. Saudi Arabia and El Salvador posted remarkable results, with receipts surging by 207% and 168%, respectively, during Q1 2024.
Outbound travel spending has skyrocketed, particularly in key markets such as the United States, Germany, and the United Kingdom, which saw expenses jump by over 30% compared to 2019. Other countries, including Australia, Canada, and Italy, have also reported increased spending, with India exhibiting an 86% surge in outbound travel expenditure in the first quarter of 2024.
The global export revenues from international tourism, including receipts and passenger transport, totaled USD 1.8 trillion in revised figures for 2023, nearly equaling 2019 levels. This decline represents mere 1% compared to pre-pandemic levels when considering real terms. Tourism direct GDP also reached pre-pandemic levels, estimated at USD 3.4 trillion, accounting for 3% of global GDP. Previously, tourism contributed to 4% of the global economy.
In the aftermath of the pandemic, the focus remains on preserving the socio-economic benefits of tourism while ensuring responsible and inclusive policies are in place.
Expectations for the Last Part of 2024:
The UN Tourism Confidence Index anticipates 120 points for September-December 2024, though below the prospects for May-August, which stood at 130 (on a scale where 100 signals balanced performance). Nearly half (47%) of the surveyed tourism experts expect stronger results for the last four months of the year, while 41% predict steady performance and 11% anticipate a decline. This suggests a gradual return to normal tourism activity following a robust 2023.
Despite the tourism industry's impressive growth, it faces ongoing challenges. Inflation in travel and tourism, including high transport and accommodation prices, persist as a significant hurdle. Additional concerns include the global economic climate, staff shortages, and extreme weather events.
Global Travel Rankings 2024:
- International Tourist Arrivals
- UN Tourism Barometer
- World Tourism Statistics
- As the global tourism industry continues its impressive recovery, the 'Seven Hidden Wonders' remain an enticing addition to any traveler's lifestyle in the quest for unique experiences.
- The resurgence in international arrivals, as indicated by the UN Tourism Barometer, has sparked a revival in global travel, enabling people to explore and broaden their horizons once again.
