Himal Press 
KATHMANDU: International tourism is poised to reach nearly 90% of pre-pandemic levels by the close of 2023, the latest data from the World Tourism Organization (UNWTO) shows.
Between January and September 2023, an estimated 975 million tourists traveled internationally – a growth of 38% compared to the same period in 2022. The strong recovery was particularly evident in the third quarter, with destinations witnessing a 22% rise in international tourist arrivals compared to the same period of last year. By the third quarter of 2023, international tourist arrivals had reached 91% of pre-pandemic levels, reaching a peak of 92% in July – the best month since the onset of the pandemic.
International tourism receipts are expected to reach $1.4 trillion in 2023, compared to $1.5 trillion earned by destinations in 2019.
Regionwise, the Middle East leads tourism recovery surpassing pre-pandemic levels by 20% in the first nine months of 2023. According to UNWTO, the Middle East is the only world region to surpass the 2019 figures. Europe, the largest destination region globally, welcomed 550 million international tourists, representing 94% of pre-pandemic levels. According to the data, Africa and the Americas also showcased solid recovery, reaching 92% and 88% of pre-pandemic visitor numbers, respectively.
Asia and the Pacific have achieved 62% of pre-pandemic levels largely due to slow recovery in North East Asia which stands at around 50%. South Asia on the other has recovered 95%, data shows.
