International tourism in Scotland returns to pre-pandemic growth

22.05.2024 - 11:57 / traveldailynews.com / Theodore Koumelis

VisitScotland CEO welcomes new ONS international tourism statistics.

New figures have revealed that Scotland welcomed its highest number of international visitors ever last year.  The 2023 International Passenger Survey by the Office of National Statistics showed almost four million overseas tourists came to Scotland last year, an increase of 15% on 2019 levels with spend also up 41%.

The previous record for international visits was in 2018 when Scotland welcomed 3.7million overseas tourists.

VisitScotland Chief Executive Malcolm Roughead said: “These figures mark a turning point for tourism in Scotland, showing not only recovery but crucially growth in international visitors with number of visits and spend now above 2019 levels. Scotland is the only UK region to have reached this milestone.  

“They are further evidence of the strength of Scotland’s offering and the clear desire for people across the world to experience this, with record demand from North America.  

“Our international visitors are hugely important to Scotland’s tourism industry, as well as the wider economy. They often stay longer and spend more, generating several billions of pounds annually, supporting a wide range of businesses, jobs and communities across the country. With many businesses still recovering from the challenges of the pandemic and current economic climate, this will be welcome news.  

“Early feedback from tourism businesses, travel trade and airline partners are this international demand is continuing into 2024 with increasing interest for visiting at different times of the year and exploring lesser-known locations.  

“At VisitScotland we are not complacent and remain focused on delivering our core purpose to drive the visitor economy and sustainably grow its value in Scotland. This includes influencing both international and domestic visitors before they leave home through our digital channels, as well as working with travel trade and transport partners to support tourism businesses here in Scotland. By encouraging regional and seasonal spread we can ensure Scotland remains a competitive year-round, must-see, must-return destination.”  

Scotland 2023 summary   

Theodore is the Co-Founder and Managing Editor of TravelDailyNews Media Network; his responsibilities include business development and planning for TravelDailyNews long-term opportunities.