The recent Travel and Tourism Development Index by the World Economic Forum (WEF) positioned Pakistan at a disappointing 101st out of 119 countries. Within the Asia-Pacific region, only Bangladesh ranked lower. In the Middle East, countries like the United Arab Emirates (UAE), Saudi Arabia, Qatar, and Bahrain fared significantly better, with the UAE securing the top spot in the region.
This index evaluates factors and policies crucial for the sustainable growth of the travel and tourism sector, which is vital for a country’s overall development. Collaborating with the University of Surrey and industry experts, the WEF compiled this index, highlighting the importance of factors such as business environment, travel policies, infrastructure, and attractions.
Globally, the United States leads the list, followed by Spain, Japan, and France, attributed to their favourable business climates, open travel policies, and robust infrastructure. Notably, the top 30 scorers in the index contribute significantly to the industry’s GDP and growth.
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While Pakistan has made a modest improvement since 2019, ranking three places higher, it still faces challenges, especially considering its economic situation. The country heavily relies on costly borrowing to maintain its foreign exchange reserves. In contrast, countries in Europe and the Asia-Pacific generally offer more conducive environments for travel and tourism development.
Despite the pandemic’s impact, the global tourism sector is projected to rebound, driven by pent-up demand and growth in major Asian markets. However, for Pakistan to significantly enhance its position, substantial improvements in various aspects of its tourism industry are imperative.
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