Stat: Europe enjoys tourism boom amid fall in international visitors to US

Europe – Europe is on track for a record-breaking year in tourism, with international visitor spending expected to rise 11% in 2025 to reach £620bn ($838bn, €734bn), according to the World Travel and Tourism Council (WTTC). France and Spain are set to lead the surge. 

The WTTC attributes part of this shift to a forecast 7% drop in international visits to the US. CEO Julia Simpson said: ‘Canadian and Mexican travellers may choose other destinations in response to President Donald Trump’s trade and migration policies,’ adding that the strong US dollar is also discouraging inbound travel. 

Spain alone is projected to welcome up to 100m international arrivals in 2025, with tourist spending expected to rise by 6% to £94.6bn ($127.7bn, €111.8bn) year on year. The sector’s contribution to Spain’s GDP could hit £220.4bn ($297bn, €260.5bn), almost 16% of the national economy. 

‘Spain remains a true global tourism powerhouse,’ said Simpson. ‘The data reflects a dynamic, resilient and constantly evolving sector.’ 

While Spain is set to enjoy strong growth, France is expected to continue attracting a higher number of travellers. 

Read our Arabian Travel Market 2025 event recap to meet the travellers of tomorrow and understand the top trends defining the travel and hospitality sector in the coming years.