According to the first comprehensive report on global tourism numbers and trends of the new decade, the latest UNWTO World Tourism Barometer, this represents the tenth consecutive year of growth. The Middle East leadsThe Middle East has emerged as the fastest-growing region for international tourism arrivals in 2019, growing at almost double the global average (+8%). Growth in Asia and the Pacific slowed down but still showed above-average growth, with international arrivals up 5%. Tourism spending still strongAgainst a backdrop of global economic slowdown, tourism spending continued to grow, most notably among the world’s top ten spenders. Tourism delivering ‘much-needed opportunities’“The number of destinations earning US$1 billion or more from international tourism has almost doubled since 1998,” adds Mr Pololikashvili.

Source: The North Africa Journal January 20, 2020 10:07 UTC