International tourism ended 2023 at 88% of pre-pandemic levels, with an estimated 1.3 billion international arrivals, according to the first UNWTO World Tourism Barometer of the year. Key takeaways include:The Middle East led recovery in relative terms as the only region to overcome pre-pandemic levels with arrivals 22% above 2019. Asia and the Pacific reached 65% of pre-pandemic levels following the reopening of several markets and destinations. According to the UNWTO Tourism Recovery Tracker, both international air capacity and passenger demand recovered about 90% of pre-pandemic levels through October 2023 (IATA). International tourism is expected to fully recover pre-pandemic levels in 2024, with initial estimates pointing to 2% growth above 2019 levels.

Source: The North Africa Journal January 19, 2024 10:02 UTC