International tourism nearly reaches pre-pandemic levels in first half of 2024
International tourism has rebounded to 96% of pre-pandemic levels in the first seven months of 2024, according to the latest World Tourism Barometer by UN Tourism. Approximately 790 million tourists traveled internationally during this period, representing an 11% increase from 2023 and only 4% below 2019 figures. The recovery is attributed to strong demand in Europe and the reopening of markets in Asia and the Pacific.
UN Tourism Secretary-General Zurab Pololikashvili stated: "International tourism is on track to consolidate its full recovery from the biggest crisis in the sector's history. The ongoing rebound comes despite a range of economic and geopolitical challenges, highlighting the strong demand for international travel as well as the effectiveness of boosting air connections and easing visa restrictions. This recovery also highlights the growing need for tourism planning and managing to cater for its impacts on communities in a way that the immense socio-economic benefits are paired with inclusive and sustainable policies".
The Middle East led the recovery, with international arrivals 26% above 2019 levels. Africa welcomed 7% more tourists than in 2019, while Europe and the Americas recovered 99% and 97% of their pre-pandemic arrivals respectively. Asia and the Pacific reached 82% of its pre-pandemic tourist numbers.
By July 2024, 67 out of 120 destinations had recovered their 2019 arrival numbers. Top performers included Qatar (+147% versus 2019), Albania (+93%), and El Salvador (+81%).
International tourism receipts showed even stronger results, with 47 out of 63 countries surpassing pre-pandemic values in the first half of 2024. Notable performers included Albania (+128%) and Serbia (+126%). Outbound travel demand was strong from major source markets like the United States (+32%), Germany (+38%), and the United Kingdom (+40% through March).
The UN Tourism Confidence Index indicates positive expectations for the last part of 2024, with 47% of tourism experts anticipating better performance. However, challenges remain, including inflation in travel and tourism, the global economic situation, staff shortages, and extreme weather events.
