US, Spain and Japan Lead Tourism

Photo: Pxhere

The United States has secured first place in the Travel & Tourism Development Index 2024, published by the World Economic Forum in cooperation with the University of Surrey. The index evaluates the resilience, sustainability and long-term development of the travel and tourism sector across 119 countries. The US topped the ranking due to its strong infrastructure, supportive policies and long-term strategic approach to tourism growth.

Spain and Japan followed closely, ranking second and third, reinforcing their status as leading destinations in Europe and Asia.

Why the United States ranks first

The US tourism sector continues to benefit from its scale and diversity. Major cities, iconic national parks and an extensive transport network enable the country to accommodate large volumes of international visitors. Digital innovation and environmental protection measures have further strengthened the sector’s competitiveness.

Government policies increasingly focus on resilience and sustainability, ensuring that growth is not only rapid but also structurally sound in the long term.

Spain’s balanced tourism model

Spain’s second-place ranking reflects its rich cultural heritage, world-class destinations and strong commitment to responsible tourism. Cities such as Barcelona, Madrid and Seville remain among Europe’s most visited, while national policies aim to manage tourist flows and protect historic and natural assets.

By balancing economic benefits with sustainability, Spain has positioned itself as a benchmark for modern tourism management.

Japan’s innovation-driven approach

Japan ranked third thanks to its distinctive blend of tradition and technology. The country has invested heavily in smart tourism solutions, digital services and infrastructure designed to enhance visitor experience while preserving local quality of life.

Destinations such as Tokyo, Kyoto and Osaka illustrate how cultural depth and technological innovation can coexist within a sustainable tourism framework.

The broader global picture

The top ten of the Travel & Tourism Development Index also includes France, Australia, Germany, the United Kingdom, China, Italy and Switzerland. While each country follows a different path, all share a focus on sustainability, service quality and long-term sector resilience.

The ranking highlights a shift in global tourism priorities from volume-driven growth to balanced and responsible development.

What travellers can expect next

Leading destinations are accelerating investments in eco-friendly travel options, digital tools and smarter infrastructure. By 2026, travellers can expect more personalised services, greener mobility solutions and enhanced digital experiences, particularly in the US and Japan.

Spain is expected to continue refining its approach to managing visitor flows while promoting lesser-known regions.

As reported by International Investment experts, the Travel & Tourism Development Index 2024 confirms that leadership in global tourism increasingly depends on sustainability, innovation and governance quality. The United States, Spain and Japan are setting benchmarks that will shape how tourism develops worldwide in the coming years.