Global Tourism Set to Soar Beyond Pre-Covid Heights in 2025

By The Malketeer 

Middle East and Africa Leading  the Post-Pandemic Travel Boom

Global tourism is gearing up for a remarkable resurgence, poised to surpass pre-pandemic levels by 2025.

According to a report by BMI, a Fitch Solutions firm, total global arrivals are projected to grow by 12.4% compared to 2019, reaching a staggering 1.6 billion travellers.

This marks a significant milestone as the industry shifts from recovery mode to sustained growth.

From Recovery to Growth: A New Era for Global Tourism

After years of rebuilding following the crippling Covid-19 pandemic, global tourism is back on solid footing.

While 2024 saw an estimated 3.9% increase in arrivals compared to 2019, 2025 will catapult the sector into robust growth with an anticipated 8.2% year-on-year expansion.

However, as markets stabilise, growth is expected to taper slightly from 2024’s steep 16.1% rise, signalling a move into a period of steady momentum rather than rebound recovery.

MENA Takes the Crown: A Regional Success Story

The Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region is leading the global tourism charge, posting the strongest growth figures worldwide.

By 2025, arrivals to MENA are expected to be 34.4% higher than pre-pandemic levels, a testament to the region’s rapid reopening and strategic tourism initiatives.

What fuelled MENA’s comeback?

• Swift lifting of pandemic-related restrictions allowed regional and European tourists to return quickly.
• High-profile events, such as the 2022 FIFA World Cup in Qatar, drew global attention and massive footfall.
• Saudi Arabia’s visionary tourism strategies have diversified the sector, attracting visitors far beyond its traditional audience.

While geopolitical tensions like the Levant Wars (2023) have impacted countries like Israel, Lebanon, and Iran, MENA’s overall growth remains resilient, showcasing its position as a global tourism powerhouse.

Asia and CEE: A Slower Road to Recovery

In contrast, Asia and Central & Eastern Europe (CEE) are set to recover more gradually, only reaching pre-Covid levels in 2025.

Several factors have slowed their rebound:

• Asia’s delayed reopening: Many Asian countries, including tourism giant China, only lifted restrictions in 2023, pushing recovery timelines further. China, both a key source market and destination, plays a pivotal role in regional recovery.
• The Russia-Ukraine war’s ripple effects: The ongoing conflict has caused sharp declines in tourist flows to and from Ukraine and Russia, impacting the broader CEE region. Sanctions on Russia have further disrupted travel dynamics.

The Post-Covid Tourism Blueprint: What’s Next?

As the global tourism industry pivots from recovery to long-term growth, several trends will shape its trajectory:

• Strategic events and campaigns: Nations are leveraging major global events to boost arrivals and reshape their tourism mix.
• Key source market revival: Countries reliant on high-volume travellers, such as China, are set to reap substantial gains as international travel normalises.
• Sustainability and innovation: With rising travel volumes, destinations are under pressure to adopt eco-friendly practices and cutting-edge technologies to manage capacity.

A Brighter Horizon for Travel Enthusiasts and Marketers

For travel marketers, the forecasted growth presents unparalleled opportunities to reignite wanderlust and build impactful campaigns.

From celebrating regional success stories like MENA to reengaging source markets in Asia and CEE, the stage is set for a global tourism renaissance.

As tourism prepares to soar beyond pre-pandemic heights, 2025 promises to be a defining year—one where travel dreams come alive, economies rebound, and destinations redefine their global footprint.