KUALA LUMPUR: Global inbound arrivals are expected to grow by 4.2% to 1.47 billion trips in 2019, with the top 100 cities covering nearly 47% of global arrivals, according to global market research company Euromonitor International.
Its ‘Top 100 City Destinations 2019’ report, covering the world’s leading cities ranked by international tourist arrivals, shows that five of the top 10 most visited cities in 2018 are in the Asia-Pacific, with Hong Kong listed as the most visited city in the world, followed by Bangkok.
“Amid the current situation in Hong Kong, leading to a sharp decline in the number of visitor arrivals this year at -8.7%, the city is expected to maintain its leading position in 2019,” said Euromonitor International senior analyst Rabia Yasmeen.
While the Asia-Pacific is the clear winner in this year’s ranking, Europe remains the second key region for travellers, with London retaining its third place in the ranking despite a decline in the number of arrivals in 2018 as the Brexit uncertainty continues.
Reporting the fastest growth in inbound arrivals globally, Istanbul made a strong comeback to the top 10, according to a statement.
In stark contrast, increased competitiveness from Asian and European cities have weighed heavily on America’s cities with most experiencing a decline in rankings despite a growth in arrivals.
In the Middle East and Africa, Euromonitor records a steady growth when compared to the rest of the world, with Cairo and Hurghada showing a sharp recovery in the ranking owing to an active tourism reform strategy. – Bernama
