International travel returns to 96% of 2019 levels
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 by UN Tourism, 790 million tourists travelled globally during this period, marking an 11% increase compared to 2023 and only a 4% shortfall from 2019.
“This rebound shows that international tourism is on track to consolidate its full recovery,” stated UN Tourism Secretary-General Zurab Pololikashvili. He highlighted the resilience of the sector despite ongoing challenges such as economic uncertainty and geopolitical tensions.
“The strong demand for international travel, combined with improved air connectivity and eased visa restrictions, has driven the recovery,” he explained.
The first quarter of 2024 saw particularly robust growth, although progress slowed in the second quarter. Nevertheless, the findings align with earlier projections of a full recovery in international arrivals by year-end.
The Middle East led the resurgence, with international arrivals soaring 26% above 2019 levels between January and July 2024. Africa also posted strong gains, welcoming 7% more tourists than during the same period in 2019.
Europe and the Americas nearly returned to pre-pandemic volumes, achieving 99% and 97% of 2019 levels, respectively.
In contrast, Asia and the Pacific recorded 82% of its pre-pandemic numbers. While still recovering, the region showed steady improvement, reaching 86% in July.
Some countries surpassed expectations, such as Qatar, where arrivals more than doubled (+147% compared to 2019), and Albania (+93%).
Tourism receipts further underlined the sector’s resilience. Notable performers included Serbia and Albania, where revenues more than doubled compared to 2019, while Türkiye and Colombia achieved growth exceeding 50%.
The UN Tourism Confidence Index points to a cautiously optimistic finish to the year, with expectations at 120 points for the final months of 2024. However, challenges persist. Inflation, high transport costs, and accommodation prices remain significant obstacles.
Global economic conditions, staffing shortages, and climate-related disruptions add to the complexity.
“Tourism’s socio-economic benefits are immense,” Pololikashvili remarked. “Yet sustainable policies are essential to ensure these gains do not come at the expense of local communities or the environment.”
While uncertainties remain, the recovery of international tourism underscores its enduring appeal and adaptability, offering hope for continued progress into 2025.
