Tourists to take 30 billion trips by 2034, give $16 trillion boost to world economy

Dubai: Global tourism is entering an unprecedented era—poised to serve 30 billion annual trips and contribute $16 trillion to the world economy by 2034, according to a new report by the World Economic Forum (WEF) in collaboration with Kearney and the Saudi Ministry of Tourism.

In the report titled “Travel and Tourism at a Turning Point: Principles for Transformative Growth,” the sector is projected to grow 1.5 times faster than the global economy, cementing its position as a powerful engine of jobs, cultural exchange, and investment. Yet, the path forward is not without turbulence.

“As global travel accelerates, we are standing at a pivotal crossroads,” said Børge Brende, President and CEO of the WEF. “Realizing tourism’s full potential will require bold reimagining—aligned across sustainability, community, and innovation.”

Asia is poised to become the fastest-growing tourism economy, with countries like India, China, Saudi Arabia, Thailand, and Sri Lanka at the forefront. By 2030, India and China alone will account for over 25% of all outbound international trips, reshaping global travel flows.

The report forecasts travel and tourism GDP in Asia to exceed 7% by 2034, with countries accelerating tourism investment to build global visibility and diversify their economies.

New growth drivers are emerging fast. Sports tourism is forecast to hit $1.7 trillion by 2032, while ecotourism continues to grow at 14% CAGR, tapping into younger, experience-driven travellers. Meanwhile, the travel tech market—valued at $10.5 billion in 2024—is expected to nearly double by 2033, with 91% of travel tech leaders planning increased investments.

But this growth comes with high infrastructure demand. To support 30 billion global trips, the industry will need to build 7 million hotel rooms and add 15 million flights per year, the report notes.

Despite its potential, the tourism boom brings serious challenges. Without targeted reforms, greenhouse gas emissions from travel could rise from 8% to 15% of global totals by 2034. Tourists may generate 205 million tons of solid waste annually, or 7% of global waste.

At the same time, labour shortages persist. The UK hospitality sector saw 53% staff turnover from 2022 to 2023, and U.S. hotels continue to face hiring challenges despite significant wage hikes.

“The industry’s success is not guaranteed,” warned Bob Willen, Managing Partner and Chairman at Kearney. “To grow responsibly, we must build greener infrastructure, empower workers, and ensure local communities benefit.”

Hosting the report launch, Saudi Arabia is investing in regenerative destinations, future-ready infrastructure, and talent pipelines to welcome 150 million visitors by 2030.

“Tourism is no longer a siloed industry—it is a powerful catalyst for economic growth and cooperation,” said Ahmed Al-Khateeb, Saudi Minister of Tourism. “We invite the world to be part of shaping tourism’s transformation.”

As the world redefines how it travels, the WEF’s report offers more than forecasts—it presents a blueprint for balancing growth with responsibility, ensuring that the future of tourism is not just bigger, but better for all.