TEHRAN – Global tourism has made a remarkable comeback, reaching 97% of pre-pandemic levels in the first quarter of 2024, according to the latest data from the UN tourism.
Over 285 million tourists traveled internationally between January and March, marking a significant 20% increase compared to the same period in 2023.
This surge highlights the near-complete recovery of the sector from the devastating impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic, the UN body reported.
In 2023, international tourist arrivals had already rebounded to 89% of 2019 levels, with tourism export revenues hitting 96% of pre-pandemic figures. Direct tourism GDP matched 2019 levels, setting the stage for further growth in 2024. UNWTO projects that international tourism will fully recover this year, with arrivals expected to surpass 2019 levels by 2%.
The first quarter of 2024 saw varying degrees of recovery across different regions. The Middle East led the way with international arrivals soaring 36% above pre-pandemic…
tourism-nears-full-recovery-reaching-97-of-pre-pandemic” target=”_blank”>Read further.