The figures for 2025 indicate a recovery to pre-pandemic growth rates, which averaged 5% from 2009 to 2019. The increase in travel is driven by high demand, stable dynamics in key markets, and ongoing recovery in Asia and the Pacific region. The expansion of air travel and improved visa conditions also contributed to the growth of international trips in 2025.
The Secretary-General of the UN World Tourism Organization, Sheikha Al Nuaimi, comments that the high interest in travel remained throughout 2025, despite rising inflation in the tourism sector and uncertainty related to the geopolitical situation. She expects that the positive trend will continue in 2026, provided that the global economy remains stable and destinations that have not yet reached pre-pandemic levels fully recover.
In 2025, tourism revenues reached a historic high of $2.2 trillion. The highest revenue growth was recorded in countries such as Morocco (19%), South Korea (18%), Egypt (17%), Mongolia (15%), Japan (14%), Latvia (11%), and Mauritius (10%).
There is also an increase in tourism profits in the UK, France, Spain, and Turkey.
For 2026, an increase in international tourism of 3-4% is expected compared to the previous year, if Asia and the Pacific region continue to recover and global economic conditions remain stable, without escalation of geopolitical conflicts.
Uncertainty related to current geopolitical tensions and conflicts poses a risk to tourism in 2026.Major international events, such as the 2026 Winter Olympics in Italy and the 2026 FIFA World Cup (Canada, USA, and Mexico), are also expected to contribute to the growth of international travel.
Photo on the main page is illustrative: UN News Service/M.Wells.
