Over 900 Million Tourists Travelled Internationally in 2022 – UNWTO

The World Tourism Organization (UNWTO) reported more than 900 million tourists travelled internationally in 2022 – double the number recorded in 2021 though still 63% of pre-pandemic levels. Every global region recorded notable increases in international tourist numbers.

Middle East

The Middle East enjoyed the strongest relative increase as arrivals climbed to 83% of pre-pandemic numbers.

Europe

Europe reached nearly 80% of pre-pandemic levels as it welcomed 585 million arrivals in 2022.

Africa and The Americas

Africa and the Americas both recovered about 65% of their pre-pandemic visitors;

Asia and The Pacific

Asia and the Pacific reached only 23%, due to stronger pandemic-related restrictions which have started to be removed only in recent months.

Economic situation could translate into tourists adopting a more cautious attitude in 2023, with reduced spending, shorter trips and travel closer to home. Furthermore, continued uncertainty caused by the Russian aggression against Ukraine and other mounting geopolitical tensions, as well as health challenges related to COVID-19 also represent downside risks and could weigh on tourism’s recovery in the months ahead.

– UNWTO Report in January 2023