Global investment in travel and tourism exceeded US$1 trillion in 2025 for the first time since before the pandemic, according to new research from the World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC), highlighting renewed confidence in the sector’s long-term growth.
The WTTC’s latest Global Trends Report shows travel and tourism investment grew 8.5 per cent year-on-year, helping the sector contribute a record US$11.6 trillion to global GDP in 2025.
Major markets drive investment growth
The United States, China, India and Saudi Arabia accounted for almost half of all global travel and tourism investment, contributing close to US$500 billion during the year.
According to the report, these markets are driving growth through infrastructure investment, government support and increased private sector confidence.
WTTC President and CEO Gloria Guevara said destinations making long-term commitments to tourism were positioning themselves for future economic growth.
“The message from this research is clear: investment and growth go hand in hand,” Guevara said.
“The destinations and economies making long-term commitments to Travel & Tourism today are positioning themselves to capture tomorrow’s jobs, visitor spending, and economic opportunities.”
Investment expected to continue
The report highlights several markets expected to record strong tourism growth over the next decade, including Indonesia, the Netherlands, Rwanda, Singapore and Thailand. Spain was also recognised for its long-term tourism strategy, with travel and tourism contributing 15.3 per cent of national GDP.
WTTC forecasts the sector will contribute US$17.1 trillion to the global economy by 2036 and support almost 89 million additional jobs worldwide.
The organisation said continued investment, improved connectivity and supportive government policies will be critical to sustaining tourism growth despite ongoing geopolitical and economic uncertainty.
