Travel 2040: This is how the tourism landscape is changing worldwide!

Travel 2040: This is how the tourism landscape is changing worldwide!

The future of travel will be shaped by numerous developments that were examined in a recent study by Deloitte and Google. By 2040, international travel could increase to around 2.4 billion per year. This forecast shows a profound change in the global tourism landscape. The European share of travel arrivals is expected to decline, while Southeast Asia, the Middle East and the Caribbean will increase in importance. dayticket.io reports that Saudi Arabia, Indonesia and the United Arab Emirates could potentially rise to the top 15 destinations by 2040, while popular countries such as Spain, France and the US lose market share.

A decisive factor for this development is the growth of the middle class in emerging countries. India, Pakistan, Brazil and Mexico are becoming increasingly important source markets, particularly India, whose international departures are estimated at around 145 million by 2040. The study identifies four types of travelers, including newcomers from the emerging middle classes, amateurs with their first experience abroad and experienced travelers with a stable travel routine.

Technological innovations and sustainability

The study also highlights the role of technological innovations that will transform the travel experience. Artificial intelligence, virtual reality and Web3 technologies, for example, enable virtual exploration of travel destinations before booking. Factors such as real-time translations and personalized recommendations through AI will help travelers optimize their experiences.

A central theme of the future travel industry is sustainability. Climate change, environmental awareness and social responsibility are becoming increasingly important. Demand for sustainable travel and transparent supply chains is growing, and new business models, such as subscription-based travel and experiential bookings, are emerging to meet these trends.

Challenges for the industry

Adapting business models will be crucial for companies in the travel industry. Flexibility and hyper-personalized offerings are necessary to address the new challenges posed by political instability, nationalism and cyber threats. These questions were also the focus of ITB Berlin 2025, where 6,000 exhibitors from 170 countries met and important developments in global tourism were discussed. euronews reports that Patricia Yates, CEO of Visit Britain, spoke specifically about film tourism to attract visitors.

The event also featured discussions on sustainable tourism initiatives presented by Marga Nograles, executive director of the Philippine Tourist Board. The promotion of local communities and adventure tourism in Oman was further addressed, while Florian Sengstschmid, Managing Director of the Azerbaijan Tourism Board, introduced the concept of “slow food trips” in cultural tourism.

In summary, the travel industry is at a tipping point. Digitalization, sustainability and addressing new target groups will be crucial for future competition.