The World Economic Forum (WEF) recently released the Travel and Tourism Development Index (TTDI). This index lists the top 10 countries for travel and tourism.

The United States ranks as the most popular tourist destination, while Switzerland, often referred to as the "heaven on earth," holds the 10th position.

The TTDI index considers factors and policies that promote sustainable development in the travel and tourism sector, which, in turn, contributes to a country's overall development.

The 2024 index includes 119 countries and highlights the top 10 nations that attract the most tourists worldwide.

Who Are the Top 10 Countries?

1. United States (Score 5.24)

2. Spain (Score 5.18)

3. Japan (Score 5.09)

4. France (Score 5.07)

5. Australia (Score 5.00)

6. Germany (Score 5.00)

7. United Kingdom (Score 4.96)

8. China (Score 4.94)

9. Italy (Score 4.90)

10. Switzerland (Score 4.81)

What is India's Ranking?

India is ranked 39th in the index. Tourism greatly contributes to the global economy. Millions of people travel to various destinations every year, significantly benefiting the tourism industry.

According to the World Economic Outlook report, the tourism industry grew by 2.9% in 2024 and 3% in 2023.

Top 5 Tourist Destinations in the TTDI Index

1. United States of America

   • Famous for attractions like the Statue of Liberty, Grand Canyon, Glacier National Park, and Yellowstone National Park. Cities like San Francisco, Los Angeles, and New York offer beautiful urban experiences. In 2023, the USA welcomed 80 million foreign tourists contributing $180 billion to its GDP.

2. Spain

   • Known for its unique architecture, Spain offers destinations like Barcelona and Granada. The country's beautiful coastline and vibrant festivals attract millions of tourists. In 2023, Spain received 70 million tourists, benefiting the economy by $150 billion.

3. Japan

   • Japan blends tradition with modern discoveries, appealing greatly to tourists. Kyoto's temples and Tokyo's bustling streets are particularly famous. In 2023, Japan hosted 30 million foreign tourists, contributing $300 billion to its economy.

4. France

   • France is highly popular among tourists for iconic landmarks like the Eiffel Tower. The villages in the Provence region are counted among the world's most beautiful. Every year, France attracts 80 million tourists, generating tourism revenue of $200 billion.

5. Australia

   • Australia's natural beauty and diverse wildlife draw a large number of tourists every year. Cities like Sydney and Melbourne offer a unique and extraordinary experience. In 2023, Australia welcomed 80 million tourists, benefiting the economy by $60 billion.