In a landmark year for Georgia’s tourism industry, the nation achieved unprecedented success in 2024, setting new records in both international tourist arrivals and revenue generation. According to official data, Georgia welcomed over 5.1 million international tourists, marking a 9% increase from 2023 and surpassing pre-pandemic levels by 0.2%.

Unprecedented Revenue Growth

The surge in tourist arrivals translated into significant economic gains. Tourism revenues soared to a historic high of $4.425 billion in 2024, reflecting a 7.3% increase compared to the previous year. This growth underscores the sector’s resilience and its pivotal role in Georgia’s economic landscape.​

Diverse Source Markets

The growth in tourism was fueled by a diverse array of source markets. Notably, revenues from Israeli tourists increased by approximately 41%, totalling $128 million. Additionally, there were significant upticks in revenues from Azerbaijan, Iran, and the European Union. Conversely, there were declines in revenues from Russia and Ukraine, highlighting shifting dynamics in tourist demographics.

Strategic Initiatives and Infrastructure Development

The Georgian government has been proactive in enhancing the country’s tourism infrastructure and offerings. Prime Minister Irakli Kobakhidze emphasized the administration’s commitment to supporting tourism projects that bolster employment, economic growth, and regional development. The number of hotels in Georgia has tripled over the past 12 years, with accommodations increasing from 23,000 to 85,000, reflecting substantial investment in the sector.​

Future Outlook

Building on the successes of 2024, Georgia is poised further to strengthen its position as a premier tourist destination. The government plans to continue supporting tourism-related projects, focusing on sustainable growth and diversification of source markets. With ongoing investments in infrastructure and strategic marketing initiatives, Georgia aims to attract an even broader spectrum of international visitors in the coming years.