WTTC survey reveals high demand for...

The findings also indicate Saudi Arabia is growing in popularity as a destination

A study conducted by YouGov for the World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC) has revealed a growing appetite for travel after the pandemic with more than a quarter (27%) of consumers planning three or more trips over the next 12 months.

About 63% of consumers surveyed globally said that they are planning a leisure trip, suggesting the appetite for international travel is now at its highest point since the start of the pandemic.

In addition, the survey shows that travellers from Australia will be the world’s biggest spenders on international travel over the next year, closely followed by travellers from Canada, Saudi Arabia and the Philippines.

According to YouGov’s ‘global tracker’, the attractiveness of Saudi Arabia as a destination continues to grow, with the highest scores across the Gulf countries, along with Indonesia, India, Malaysia and Thailand.

The WTTC is hosting its annual Global Summit in Riyadh this week.

In keeping with the trend for conscious travel, almost two thirds of those surveyed (61%) stated they prefer travel brands and destinations that are more sustainable, whilst almost half (45%) said they will only support brands that are socially and environmentally responsible.

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WTTC President and CEO Julia Simpson said: “This global survey shows that international travel is back. As we kick off our Global Summit in Riyadh, bringing together global travel leaders and governments from around the world, travellers are getting ready to explore the world again.

“The results of this global survey also show the growing importance of sustainable travel amongst consumers.”

The WTTC’s 22nd Global Summit will host delegates from around the world in from 28 November – 1 December.

For more information, visit www.wttc.org/about/events-webinars/global-summit