According to data provided by the UN News Service, in 2025 the world welcomed 1.52 billion international tourists, which is 60 million more than in the previous year, 2024, representing a growth of 4 percent.
These results indicate a recovery in tourist flows to levels observed before the pandemic. The increase in tourist activity is attributed to high demand, stable dynamics in major markets, and ongoing recovery in Asia and the Pacific region. The expansion of air travel and improvements in visa services also contributed to this growth.
The Secretary-General of the UN World Tourism Organization, Sheila Al Nuwais, noted in her comments that the demand for travel remained high throughout the year, despite challenging economic conditions, including inflation in tourism services and geopolitical instability.
Some countries that provided data for the past year demonstrated impressive double-digit growth in international arrivals. Among the leaders in increasing tourist flows were Brazil (37%), Egypt (20%), Morocco (14%), and the Seychelles (13%).
Tourism revenues in 2025 reached a record $2.2 trillion.
Forecasts for 2026 suggest a growth in international tourism of 3-4 percent compared to 2025, provided that Asia and the Pacific region continue to recover, the global economy remains stable, and the geopolitical situation does not worsen. However, the current uncertainty caused by conflicts and tensions poses risks for the tourism industry this year.
Against this backdrop, significant international events, such as the Winter Olympics in Italy and the World Cup (Canada, USA, and Mexico), will also influence the growth of international travel.
