Dubai is the 7th most visited city in the world, having hosted more than 16.3-million people over the course of 2019.
The Top 100 City Destinations report shows that Asian destinations took the lion’s share of the list, with more than 40-entries. Hong Kong is in first, while Bangkok is in second place, followed by Macau and Singapore.
Hong Kong managed to hold on to its status as the world’s most popular city, despite months of political unrest that has impacted tourist numbers. Still, more than 26.7-million people visited the city in 2019.
London also dropped two spots (last year it was number 3) to the number 5 position, with 19.6-million visitors. This is despite further uncertainty around Brexit and potentially tighter restrictions for EU Nationals.
Overall, 2019 saw more travel than ever before. Total tourist numbers have grown over 4 per cent this year, to more than 1.5-billion trips.
Each ‘trip’ is only counted for an overseas visitor who stays longer than 24 hours and less than one year. Arrivals include people travelling for business, leisure and to visit family and friends (but those in employment or education abroad are exclusive).
Interestingly, the biggest leap up the list was Hurghada in Egypt, which will enter the list at the 62 position. That’s thanks to a tourism reform program, as well as improving security. Other notable climbers include Indian cities such as Agra and Bangalore, as well as Cebu in the Philippines.
Need some travel inspiration? Be sure to check out Esquire’s Ultimate Travel Bucket List
