Top 20 countries for travel and tourism: UAE ranks first in Mena and 18th globally

The UAE has ranked first in the massive Mena region and 18th globally in the Travel & Tourism Development Index (TTDI) by the World Economic Forum. The report released on Tuesday indicates that the Gulf state climbed seven places from its earlier 25th spot.

The UAE raised its score by 4.4% in the 2024 TTDI index. The report ranks 119 economies based on a set of factors, and provides a benchmarking tool for governments, companies, international organisations and others to develop the travel and tourism sector.

The TTDI index consists of 5 sub-indices – the enabling environment, travel and tourism policy and infrastructure, travel and tourism resources such as nature and culture, infrastructure and services, and the sustainability of the travel and tourism sector.

2024 a turning point for travel and tourism

The Middle East noted the highest recovery rates in the number of international tourist arrivals, 20% more than 2019 levels. Regions like Africa, Europe and the Americas also noted a strong rebound, recovering 90% of 2023 movement compared to pre-pandemic levels.

It appears that 2024 represents a turning point for the evolving travel and tourism sector. The US retained its top spot in the list, and so did Spain and Japan in the second and third positions. France, Australia, Germany, the UK, China, Italy and Switzerland followed next.

Among high-income economies, only the UAE and Saudi Arabia ranked among the top 10 that noted the most improvement in their performance between 2019 and 2024. The report anticipates the industry to recover and surpass pre-crisis levels.

Improved scores but labour shortages remain

The rebound has come against a backdrop of rising global air route capacity and connectivity, improved international openness, and increased investment in natural and cultural resources driving tourism, according to the Forum.

But on the other hand, non-leisure demand is still lagging, there are ongoing labour shortages, and productivity, capital investment and air route capacity and connectivity have struggled to address demand, leading to a supply and demand imbalance.

Top 10 countries for travel and tourism

1. United States

2. Spain

3. Japan

4. France

5. Australia

6. Germany

7. United Kingdom

8. China

9. Italy

10. Switzerland