A ‘transformative’ Singapore is on track to smash its all-time international arrivals record this year, according to the World Travel & Tourism Council, which forecasts that Thailand – fuelled by the White Lotus effect – is similarly on pace to break all records with 5% growth.

According to the latest WTTC research, international arrivals in Singapore are projected to reach almost 16 million in 2025 – 9.6% above pre-pandemic levels in 2019.

Despite a slow rebound in outbound travel from China globally, record numbers of Chinese visitors are set to head to Singapore this year, to reach almost 2.8 million, setting the stage for further growth in 2026.

Elsewhere is Southeast Asia, the Philippines will come within touching distance of its previous high of 2019, according to the WTTC, and Malaysia is expected to see international visitor numbers is expected to break its previous high reached in 2016 by almost 7% this year.

WTTC President & CEO, Julia Simpson, said “Singapore is setting the pace for global tourism growth, breaking records, and outpacing its regional rivals. With soaring visitor numbers expected from India, and a return of Chinese travellers, the city-state’s tourism engine is running at full throttle. This is not just a comeback – it is a transformation!”

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