Global travel outlook

INTERNATIONAL - The World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC) reports that Singapore is on track to smash its all-time international arrivals record this year, outpacing other major Southeast Asian destinations such as Thailand and the Philippines. 

According to the latest research, international arrivals are projected to reach almost 16 million in 2025 – 9.6% above 2019 pre-pandemic levels.  

India is fueling a major tourism surge to “The Lion City”, with arrivals expected to jump from just over 1.11 million in 2019 to 1.25 million in 2025 — the highest on record.  

Despite a slow rebound in outbound travel from China globally, Singapore is on track to welcome a record 2.8 million Chinese visitors this year, setting the stage for further growth in 2026. 

WTTC President & CEO, Julia Simpson, said “Singapore is setting the pace for global tourism growth, breaking records, and outpacing its regional rivals. With soaring visitor numbers expected from India, and a return of Chinese travellers, the city-state’s tourism engine is running at full throttle. 

“This is not just a comeback – it is a transformation. Singapore is leading in innovation and sustainability, and its Travel & Tourism sector is on course to be stronger than ever, driving jobs, growth, and economic prosperity for years to come.”