International Tourism Hit 84% of Pre-Pandemic Level

Key Points

• International tourism reached 84% of pre-pandemic levels between January and July 2023, with 700 million tourists traveling.
• The Middle East surpassed pre-pandemic tourism levels, while Europe, Africa, and the Americas were close but not above.
• Asia-Pacific lagged in recovery at 61% due to late reopening, but is expected to reach 80-95% by year-end despite economic challenges.

Summary

Between January and July 2023, international tourism achieved 84% of its pre-pandemic levels, with 700 million tourists traveling globally, as reported by the UN World Tourism Organization. The Middle East showed exceptional growth, exceeding its pre-pandemic levels by over 20%. In contrast, Europe, Africa, and the Americas approached but did not surpass their pre-pandemic levels, with Europe at 91%, Africa at 92%, and the Americas at 87%. The Asia-Pacific region struggled with recovery at only 61%, impacted by late reopenings in key markets like China. The UNWTO anticipates Asia-Pacific tourism to reach between 80% and 95% of pre-pandemic levels by the end of 2023, despite potential economic hurdles such as inflation and rising oil prices.