International tourism increased significantly in the first quarter of 2024, reaching 97% of pre-pandemic levels, with more than 285 million travelers making international trips between January and March 2024. This marked a 20% increase compared to the same period in 2023, indicating an almost complete recovery from the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic.
UN tourism forecasts suggest that 2024 will see a full recovery in international travel, surpassing 2019 levels by 2%. Recent data from the specialized United Nations agency for tourism highlight a positive trend.
UN Secretary-General for Tourism Zurab Pololikashvili emphasized the importance of this recovery to global economies and the livelihoods of millions. He emphasized the importance of implementing sustainable tourism policies and effective destination management to address the sector’s impact on resources and communities.
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Regional analysis reveals remarkable performances in various sub-regions during the first quarter of 2024. North Africa led the international tourism trend with a 23% increase in arrivals compared to pre-pandemic levels, followed by Central America (+15%), the Caribbean and Western Europe (both +7 %). Southern Mediterranean Europe surpassed pre-pandemic levels by 1%, while South America almost reached 2019 levels. Northern Europe, sub-Saharan Africa and North America achieved 95-98% recovery.
In 2023, international tourism revenue will reach $1.5 trillion, a nominal value almost at the same level as before the pandemic. Revenues in Europe, the Middle East, the Americas, Africa and Asia Pacific showed varying degrees of recovery.
