International tourism has almost returned to pre-pandemic levels, with 96% of 2019 figures recorded in the first seven months of 2024.
According to the latest World Tourism Barometer from UN Tourism, 790 million tourists traveled worldwide during this period, which represents an increase of 11% compared to 2023 and only a shortfall of 4% compared to 2019.
“This recovery shows that international tourism is on track to consolidate its full recovery,” said Zurab Pololikashvili, UN Secretary-General for Tourism. He highlighted the sector’s resilience despite ongoing challenges such as economic uncertainty and geopolitical tensions.
“Strong demand for international travel, combined with improved air links and relaxed visa restrictions, has driven the recovery,” he explains.
The first quarter of 2024 saw particularly robust growth, although progress slowed in the second quarter. Nevertheless, the findings are consistent with previous predictions of a full recovery in international arrivals by the end of the year.
The Middle East led the revival, with international arrivals rising 26% above 2019 levels between January and July 2024. Africa also posted strong gains, welcoming 7% more tourists than the same period in 2019.
Europe and America almost returned to pre-pandemic volumes, reaching 99% and 97% of 2019 levels respectively.
In contrast, Asia and the Pacific recorded 82% of pre-pandemic figures. Although still recovering, the region is showing steady improvement, reaching 86% in July.
Some countries exceeded expectations, such as Qatar, where arrivals more than doubled (+147% compared to 2019), and Albania (+93%).
Tourism revenues further underlined the sector’s resilience. Standout performers included Serbia and Albania, where sales more than doubled from 2019, while Türkiye and Colombia achieved growth of more than 50%.
The UN Tourism Confidence Index points to a cautiously optimistic end to the year, with expectations of 120 points for the final months of 2024. However, challenges remain. Inflation, high transport costs and accommodation prices remain significant obstacles.
Global economic conditions, workforce shortages and climate-related disruptions add to the complexity.
“The socio-economic benefits of tourism are enormous,” Pololikashvili noted. “Yet sustainable policies are essential to ensure that these gains do not come at the expense of local communities or the environment.”
While uncertainties remain, the recovery of international tourism underlines its continued appeal and adaptability, offering hope for further progress in 2025.
