Madrid: Global tourism continues its upward trajectory, with international tourist arrivals rising 5% between January and September 2025 compared to the same period in 2024, according to the latest World Tourism Barometer. The sector has also surpassed pre-pandemic levels, recording 3% growth over 2019 numbers.
More than 1.1 billion travelers crossed borders in the first nine months of the year – about 50 million more than in 2024 – reflecting steady demand despite challenges such as high inflation, global tensions, and fluctuating traveler sentiment. The third quarter alone showed a 4% year-on-year increase, strengthened by strong summer travel trends across the Northern Hemisphere, according to a UN Tourism press release.
UN Tourism Secretary-General Zurab Pololikashvili noted that ongoing momentum in arrivals and tourism receipts demonstrates resilience across the industry. “Africa and Europe in particular stand out for their results,” he said.
Among all global regions, Africa recorded the strongest growth, with arrivals rising 10% in the first nine months of 2025. Both North Africa (+11%) and Sub-Saharan Africa (+10%) posted double-digit growth.
Europe remained the world’s most visited region, welcoming 625 million tourists during the period—an increase of 4% over 2024. Strong summer demand contributed to positive results across all subregions.
