Global arrivals reach 1.52bn in 2025 – Africa leads as demand stays strong
International tourist arrivals rose 4% in 2025 to an estimated 1.52 billion – around 60 million more than in 2024 – according to UN Tourism’s latest World Tourism Barometer. The upturn signals a return to pre‑pandemic growth patterns, supported by strong demand, improved air connectivity and easier visa policies. Total export revenues from tourism reached a record USD 2.2 trillion.
Europe received 793 million arrivals (+4% year on year; +6% vs 2019), Africa grew 8% to 81 million led by North Africa (+11%), and the Middle East rose 3% – 39% above 2019 and close to 100 million visitors. Asia and the Pacific increased 6% but remained 9% below 2019 as recovery continued, while the Americas edged up 1% amid mixed subregional trends. UN Tourism expects global arrivals to grow a further 3% to 4% in 2026, though high costs, economic uncertainty and geopolitical risks remain key headwinds.
Source: UN Tourism
