<> Viral of Today <>
Home » TOURISM NEWS » Global Tourism Set for Robust Surge in 2025 as Shaika Al Nowais Ushers New Era of Reform Saturday, May 31, 2025The global tourism sector is poised for a significant upswing in 2025, buoyed by strong international demand and strategic reforms under the newly elected Secretary-General of the United Nations Tourism Organization (UN Tourism), Shaika Al Nowais. This surge represents not only a recovery from the unprecedented setbacks caused by the COVID-19 pandemic but also signals a transformative phase characterized by innovation, sustainability, and inclusive growth.International Tourist Arrivals Expected to Surpass Pre-Pandemic LevelsAccording to projections released by UN Tourism and corroborated by government tourism agencies worldwide, international tourist arrivals are anticipated to exceed pre-pandemic figures by the end of 2025. This translates into a volume of arrivals that outpaces the peak years before the global health crisis.In 2019, the year prior to the pandemic, the world recorded close to one and a half billion international arrivals, setting a historic high. The pandemic’s onset caused a sharp decline, with global arrivals dropping by nearly seventy percent in 2020. Since then, recovery has been steady but uneven, hampered by ongoing travel restrictions, geopolitical tensions, and varying vaccination rates.However, the outlook for 2025 is markedly optimistic. The sector is expected to experience double-digit growth, driven by pent-up demand, eased travel restrictions, and the revival of business and leisure travel. Countries are increasingly leveraging digital innovation and sustainable practices to attract visitors, fostering confidence and resilience.Economic Impact: Tourism’s Growing Contribution to Global GDPThe economic significance of the tourism industry cannot be overstated. Prior to the pandemic, travel and tourism contributed nearly ten percent of global gross domestic product (GDP) and supported more than three hundred million jobs worldwide, encompassing a wide range of sectors from hospitality and transport to cultural and recreational services.With the sector’s revival, projections estimate that the contribution of tourism to global GDP will grow significantly in 2025, reflecting higher spending by international travelers and increased investment in tourism infrastructure. This growth is critical for many emerging economies where tourism constitutes a major economic pillar.Governments worldwide are investing heavily in tourism development as part of broader economic recovery plans. For instance, the European Union’s tourism strategy integrates digitalization and sustainability goals, aiming to strengthen resilience and competitiveness. Similarly, the United States Travel Association forecasts tourism spending to approach pre-pandemic levels as the sector rebounds.Shaika Al Nowais: Leadership Driving Innovation and Sustainable GrowthShaika Al Nowais’s election as Secretary-General of UN Tourism marks a new chapter for global tourism governance. Her mandate focuses on transparency, ethical leadership, and promoting sustainable and inclusive tourism models that balance economic growth with environmental protection and cultural preservation.Her leadership comes at a critical juncture when the sector must address long-term challenges such as climate change, overtourism, and socio-economic inequalities while capitalizing on opportunities created by technological advances and shifting traveler preferences.Under Al Nowais’s stewardship, UN Tourism is emphasizing a roadmap that integrates digital transformation, partnerships with the private sector, and a focus on community empowerment. These priorities align with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 8 (Decent Work and Economic Growth) and SDG 12 (Responsible Consumption and Production).Regional Outlooks: Diverse Growth Across ContinentsThe recovery trajectory varies across regions, reflecting differences in vaccination progress, policy responses, and market dynamics. However, all regions are expected to register strong growth in 2025.Europe: Europe remains the top destination for international arrivals, with countries like Spain, France, and Italy reporting robust bookings and increased tourism revenues. The region is also a leader in sustainable tourism practices, integrating environmental protection with economic recovery.Asia-Pacific: After a slower start due to stringent border controls, Asia-Pacific countries such as Thailand, Japan, and Australia are reopening, stimulating growth. This region’s focus on cultural heritage tourism and ecotourism is attracting a new wave of travelers.Americas: The Americas, led by the United States and Mexico, are experiencing rapid recovery in both domestic and international travel markets, supported by strong consumer confidence and expanded flight connectivity.Middle East and Africa: The Middle East is capitalizing on mega-events and infrastructural investments, with the UAE and Saudi Arabia at the forefront. Africa is also emerging as an attractive destination, particularly for eco-tourism and adventure travel.Digital Transformation and Sustainable Practices: Catalysts for RecoveryDigital innovation is reshaping the tourism landscape. From AI-driven personalized experiences to virtual reality tours, technology is enhancing traveler engagement and operational efficiency. UN Tourism encourages member states to adopt these innovations to remain competitive and meet evolving consumer expectations.Sustainability remains a core pillar. The sector is increasingly committed to reducing carbon footprints, preserving biodiversity, and ensuring that tourism benefits local communities. Governments are incorporating sustainability into tourism policy frameworks, fostering a balance between growth and responsibility.Challenges Ahead: Navigating Uncertainty with ResilienceDespite positive forecasts, the sector faces ongoing uncertainties including geopolitical tensions, climate-related disruptions, and potential new health risks. Travel costs influenced by inflation and fluctuating fuel prices may affect affordability and demand patterns.Shaika Al Nowais’s approach advocates for adaptive strategies and international cooperation to mitigate risks, emphasizing the importance of resilience and crisis preparedness within the sector.Conclusion: A Bright Horizon for Global Tourism in 2025The year 2025 is shaping up to be a landmark year for global tourism. With international arrivals projected to soar beyond historic levels and economic contributions rebounding strongly, the sector stands on the cusp of a sustained renaissance.Under Shaika Al Nowais’s visionary leadership, UN Tourism is steering the global industry toward a future defined by innovation, inclusivity, and sustainability. Governments, businesses, and communities worldwide are poised to benefit from this resurgence, ensuring that tourism continues to be a powerful driver of economic prosperity and cultural exchange.Official References:United Nations World Tourism Organization (UNWTO)European CommissionU.S. Travel AssociationUnited Nations Sustainable Development GoalsWorld Bank Tourism Data
This information will surprise you!
See also
- Read until the end to discover everything.
- Important information you need to know.
- Interesting facts and helpful tips.
Conclusion
Did you enjoy the news? Keep following us daily!