According to the UN World Tourism Organization (UNWTO), international tourism numbers are anticipated to return to pre-Covid levels by the end of 2024. The first UNWTO World Tourism Barometer for the year revealed that in 2023, there were an estimated 1.3 billion international travelers, accounting for 88% of pre-pandemic levels.
The report points to a “stronger recovery of Asian markets” and increased airline connections as factors contributing to the full recovery by the end of 2024. UNWTO Secretary General Zurab Pololikashvili emphasized the positive impact of tourism recovery on economies, jobs, and growth globally. International tourism receipts reached $1.4 trillion in 2023, representing 93% of the 2019 figure.