International tourism has demonstrated a robust recovery in the first quarter of 2025, with a 5% increase in global tourist arrivals compared to the same period in 2024, according to a report highlighted by Egypt’s Information and Decision Support Center (IDSC). This growth translates to over 300 million international travelers between January and March, marking a 14 million rise from the previous year and exceeding pre-pandemic levels by 3%
The report underscores the resilience of the tourism sector amid ongoing geopolitical and economic challenges. Visitor spending and tourism revenues have also seen significant increases, reflecting the sector’s strength despite rising travel costs and service prices.
Regional Highlights:
- Europe: Welcomed 125 million international tourists in Q1 2025, a 2% increase from the previous year and 5% above 2019 figures. Central and Eastern Europe experienced an 8% growth, while Southern Mediterranean Europe saw a 2% rise .
- Africa: Recorded a strong 9% growth in international arrivals compared to Q1 2024, surpassing pre-pandemic levels by 16% .eglobaltravelmedia.com.au+9tourexpi.com+9bwtravel.com+9
- Asia-Pacific: Led global growth with a 12% increase in arrivals. Northeast Asia stood out with a 23% rise, reaching 91% of 2019 levels .
- Americas: Experienced a 2% overall increase, with South American destinations achieving a notable 13% growth, benefiting from the Southern Hemisphere’s summer season
- Middle East: Saw a modest 1% growth compared to Q1 2024; however, arrivals remained 44% higher than pre-pandemic levels .
Tourism Receipts and Economic Impact:
International tourism receipts have shown robust growth in several destinations. Spain reported a 9% increase, Turkey 7%, and France 6% in the first quarter of 2025. In Asia, Japan saw a remarkable 34% rise in revenues, while Nepal achieved 18% growth .
The report also notes that in 2024, international tourism receipts, including revenues and air transport, reached $2.0 trillion, an 11% increase over 2023 and 15% above pre-pandemic levels. These receipts represent 6% of total global exports of goods and services and 23% of global trade in services .
Outlook:
Despite the positive trends, the global tourism sector faces ongoing challenges. Surveys of tourism experts indicate that slowing economic growth, rising travel costs, and increased customs duties are prominent risks. Declining consumer confidence and geopolitical tensions also pose potential threats to tourism performance in 2025
Nevertheless, the continued rise in international arrivals and increased tourism spending demonstrate the sector’s resilience and its vital role in supporting global economies
