TORONTO — International tourism made a full recovery in 2024, with global tourist arrivals reaching 1.4 billion – 99% of pre-pandemic levels – according to the World Tourism Barometer from UN Tourism. This represents an 11% increase over 2023, driven by robust demand, strong source markets, and the continued revival of travel in Asia and the Pacific.
The Middle East emerged as the best-performing region relative to 2019, recording 95 million arrivals – 32% above pre-pandemic levels. Africa welcomed 74 million visitors, 7% more than in 2019, while Europe, the world’s largest travel destination, saw 747 million international arrivals, exceeding 2019 numbers by 1%. Asia and the Pacific experienced rapid recovery with 316 million arrivals, though numbers remained at 87% of pre-pandemic levels, up from 66% in late 2023.
The Americas reached 97% of 2019 figures, with the Caribbean and Central America surpassing pre-pandemic performance. Subregional leaders included North Africa and Central America, which recorded 22% and 17% more visitors than in 2019, respectively. Southern Mediterranean Europe (+8%) and the Caribbean (+7%) also showed significant growth.
Record Revenues and Spending Trends Tourism revenues soared to an all-time high of US$1.9 trillion in 2024, 3% above 2019 levels in real terms. Receipts from international travel reached $1.
6 trillion, reflecting a 4% increase from pre-pandemic values. Average tourist spending gradually normalised at $1,100 per trip, hi.
