Africa’s Tourism Surges 10% in 2025 as Morocco Enters Top Ranks
Quidah is an online platform that connects investors with curated opportunities and expert insights on Africa’s emerging markets, while offering businesses promotional services, partnership facilitation, and market intelligence to attract capital and grow their operations.
Industries
Africa’s tourism sector posted a 10% rise in international arrivals during the first nine months of 2025, outperforming the global average and exceeding pre-pandemic levels, according to UN Tourism data, as improved air connectivity, infrastructure spending and global demand bolster the industry’s economic contribution across the continent.
Egypt recorded the strongest performance among major destinations with a 21% increase in arrivals, driven by the full recovery of Nile cruise operations, sustained demand for Red Sea resorts in Sharm El Sheikh and Hurghada, and enduring interest in heritage sites including the Pyramids of Giza.
Ethiopia achieved 18% growth supported by cultural tourism centred on Lalibela’s rock-hewn churches and Addis Ababa’s position as a continental aviation hub through Ethiopian Airlines. South Africa welcomed 17% more visitors, propelled by safari demand in Kruger National Park and urban attractions in Cape Town.
Morocco registered a 14% rise in arrivals, benefiting from airport expansions, new hotel developments and enhanced air links to Marrakech and Fez as the country builds capacity ahead of hosting matches at the 2030 FIFA World Cup.
Uganda saw tourism receipts climb 13.3%, led by gorilla trekking and ecotourism, while Zambia received more than two million visitors in the first ten months of 2025 after extending border hours with neighbouring Zimbabwe at Victoria Falls and investing in local infrastructure to establish the site as a regional hub.
