International tourism is rebounding strongly, with a nearly 90% recovery of pre-pandemic levels expected by the end of 2023, according to the latest data from the World Tourism Organization (UNWTO). Between January and September 2023, approximately 975 million tourists traveled internationally, marking a 38% increase compared to the same period in 2022. The third quarter of 2023 saw a 22% rise in international tourist arrivals, reaching 91% of pre-pandemic levels, with July achieving the highest monthly performance since the onset of the pandemic.
Overall, tourism has recovered 87% of pre-pandemic levels during this period, indicating a promising trajectory toward reaching 90% recovery by the year’s end. International tourism receipts are expected to reach around USD 1.4 trillion in 2023, representing 93% of the earnings in 2019. Regions such as the Middle East, Europe, and Africa are leading the recovery, with measures like visa facilitation, destination development, and hosting large events contributing to their remarkable performance. Despite economic challenges and geopolitical tensions, international tourism is poised to fully recover pre-pandemic levels by 2024.
Source: DailyFT
