Spain Joins Poland, Japan, Saudi Arabia, Morocco, UAE, And More In Achieving Historic Tourism Surge In 2025 :What You Need To Know For Your Next Trip

Published on December 21, 2025

Spain joins Poland, Japan, Saudi Arabia, Morocco, UAE, and more in achieving a historic tourism surge in 2025, driven by its vibrant cultural offerings, improved infrastructure, and the increasing appeal of its diverse regions. This surge highlights the country’s growing popularity as a top destination, attracting visitors with everything from stunning beaches to world-renowned landmarks and vibrant festivals. Whether you’re planning a city escape to Madrid or exploring the coastal wonders of Costa Brava, Spain promises an unforgettable travel experience. Here’s what you need to know before booking your next trip.

Spain, renowned for its rich history, culture, and beautiful landscapes, is riding a massive wave of tourism growth in 2025. As the world continues to recover from the aftermath of the COVID-19 pandemic, countries around the globe are experiencing remarkable rebounds in international tourism. In the first third of 2025, Spain has emerged as one of the top performers, with a record 5% increase in international arrivals compared to 2024. This uptick is just part of a broader global trend, with several countries seeing significant boosts in tourist numbers. Here’s a look at the destinations experiencing the most dramatic tourism growth in 2025.

Spain: Leading the Charge in European Tourism

Spain has long been a favored destination for travelers, and in 2025, its appeal shows no signs of waning. The country’s booming tourism industry has seen a 5% increase in international visitors in the first part of the year compared to 2024, following a record-breaking 94 million tourists in 2024. With high occupancy rates in hotels, a surge in flight demand, and rising tourist spending, Spain is proving that it remains one of the world’s top travel destinations.

Tourists are flocking to Spain for its diverse offerings—from the cultural riches of Madrid and Barcelona to the sun-drenched beaches of Costa Brava and the Balearic Islands. This growth is being fueled not only by neighboring European visitors but also by a surge of travelers from North America, Asia, and the Middle East.

Major airlines, including Iberia, British Airways, Lufthansa, and Ryanair, have ramped up services to Spain, and hotel chains such as Marriott, Hilton, and Accor are expanding their operations. The first third of 2025 has shown that Spain’s tourism infrastructure is more than capable of meeting the growing demand.

Global Tourism Surge in 2025

While Spain leads the European tourism boom, it is far from alone in experiencing exceptional growth. Several other countries around the world have seen substantial increases in international arrivals. Here’s a closer look at the destinations that are seeing a significant influx of global travelers in 2025.

Countries Experiencing a Tourism Boom in 2025

• Poland: Poland has become one of Europe’s fastest-growing tourism markets. In 2025, the country saw unprecedented growth, outpacing many of its regional neighbors. Visitors are drawn to Poland’s rich history, beautiful architecture, and vibrant culture, especially in cities like Krakow, Warsaw, and Gdansk.
• Japan: Japan’s tourism industry has had a stellar year, with international arrivals surging faster than ever. The country is poised to reach new records, particularly as travelers flock to Japan’s historic sites, natural wonders, and world-class cities like Tokyo and Kyoto. The government’s efforts to attract tourists through easier visa processes and unique cultural offerings have paid off.
• Saudi Arabia: Saudi Arabia has seen significant growth in tourism in 2025, particularly in the wake of its ambitious Vision 2030 plan, which aims to diversify the economy and boost the tourism sector. Cities like Riyadh and Jeddah are becoming popular hubs for both business and leisure travelers, and the country’s tourism offerings, from luxury resorts to archaeological sites, are attracting a global audience.
• Morocco: Morocco has been a rising star in North Africa, with a 19% increase in international tourist arrivals in 2025. With its rich culture, bustling souks, and stunning landscapes, Morocco is attracting visitors looking for a unique blend of history, adventure, and relaxation. Cities like Marrakesh, Casablanca, and Fes are experiencing the highest growth in visitor numbers.
• UAE: The UAE, particularly Dubai and Abu Dhabi, has continued to dominate the tourism scene in the Middle East. The country’s infrastructure, luxury resorts, and world-famous shopping experiences have kept tourists flocking to its shores in 2025. With major events such as Expo 2025 on the horizon, the UAE is set to maintain its tourism dominance.
• Other Notable Countries:
  • Vietnam: With a 21% increase in tourist arrivals, Vietnam is setting records in Southeast Asia.
  • Uzbekistan: Uzbekistan has posted impressive growth, ranking among the world’s fastest-growing tourist destinations.
  • Lithuania: Lithuania’s rise as a cultural and adventure tourism hotspot has attracted travelers in 2025.
  • Malta: Malta’s Mediterranean charm continues to draw visitors in large numbers this year.
  • Croatia: Known for its stunning coastline, Croatia is seeing tourism numbers soar.
  • Portugal: Portugal’s combination of scenic beauty, history, and culture is resonating with tourists in 2025.

These countries, alongside Spain, are part of a broader tourism boom that reflects changing preferences among global travelers. With an increased focus on sustainable tourism, cultural experiences, and off-the-beaten-path destinations, these countries are capitalizing on new travel trends.

How Airlines and Hotels Are Benefiting from the Surge

Airlines and hotel chains are among the major beneficiaries of this global tourism surge. In Spain, for instance, international carriers like Iberia, British Airways, and Lufthansa have increased their flight schedules to meet the rising demand. Iberia, Spain’s flagship carrier, has expanded its services to North America and Asia, while low-cost carriers like Ryanair and EasyJet have increased their frequencies to Spanish cities like Seville and Palma de Mallorca.

Hotel chains, both luxury and budget, are reaping the rewards of higher tourism. International brands like Marriott, Hilton, and Accor have expanded their operations in Spain, opening new properties in Madrid, Barcelona, and the Balearic Islands. Additionally, boutique hotels and vacation rentals are seeing a sharp increase in bookings, especially in less touristy areas.

This growth in both airlines and hotels is driving job creation, contributing to local economies, and ensuring that Spain and other countries continue to thrive in the tourism sector. The tourism boom in 2025 is a clear indication of how resilient and adaptable the global travel industry is, bouncing back strongly after the pandemic.

What Travelers Can Expect in 2025

As tourism numbers climb across these nations, travelers can expect several key trends to define their experiences in 2025:

• Early Bookings Are Essential: Due to the surge in tourism, booking flights and accommodations early will help secure the best prices and availability. This is particularly important for popular destinations like Spain, Japan, and the UAE.
• Sustainable Tourism: Many countries, including Spain and Morocco, are focusing on sustainable tourism practices. Eco-friendly hotels, low-carbon transportation options, and responsible travel experiences are becoming more widely available to conscious travelers.
• Explore Beyond Major Cities: While cities like Madrid, Tokyo, and Dubai remain top travel destinations, travelers are increasingly exploring lesser-known areas. Cities like Valencia, Seville, and Seville in Spain, as well as Gdansk in Poland, offer unique cultural experiences without the crowds.
• Technology in Travel: In 2025, digital technology continues to transform the tourism industry. From AI-powered travel assistants to seamless online booking platforms, technology is improving how travelers plan and enjoy their vacations.

Spain’s 5% growth in international tourism is just the tip of the iceberg. As travelers return in record numbers to destinations around the world, countries like Poland, Japan, Saudi Arabia, Morocco, the UAE, and others are also capitalizing on this tourism boom. With increased investments in infrastructure, marketing, and services, the global tourism industry is thriving, and travelers are benefiting from enhanced experiences.

As 2025 continues, expect even more growth, especially in emerging markets and off-the-beaten-path destinations. For now, Spain remains at the forefront of the tourism surge, but many other countries are rising fast, making 2025 a year to remember for global travel.

Spain joins Poland, Japan, Saudi Arabia, Morocco, UAE, and more in achieving a historic tourism surge in 2025, fueled by its rich cultural heritage, diverse landscapes, and world-class infrastructure, making it a top destination for travelers. Here’s what you need to know for your next trip.

What You Should Know: As tourism numbers continue to rise, travelers should plan their trips early, consider sustainable travel options, and explore lesser-known gems beyond major cities. Whether visiting Spain, Japan, or Morocco, the world is ready to offer unforgettable travel experiences in 2025.