Spain’s Tourism Sector Could Exceed €260 Billion by 2025, According to WTTC

In 2024, the tourism sector in Spain achieved its strongest performance since 2019, contributing nearly €249 billion to the GDP. International tourism spending increased by almost 11% year-on-year. The World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC) predicts that by 2025, the travel and tourism industry in Spain could reach a record high, with an expected GDP contribution of €260.5 billion, approximately 16% of the national economy.

According to the latest Economic Impact Research (EIR) by WTTC and Oxford Economics, these projections highlight tourism as a key driver of Spain’s economy, with an anticipated annual growth of 4.7%. By the end of 2025, the sector is projected to support 3.2 million jobs in Spain, equivalent to 14.4% of total employment.

By 2025, international tourists’ expenditure is forecasted to reach €113.2 billion, growing by 5.7% annually, while domestic spending could reach €84.9 billion, a 2.4% increase from the previous year. Despite facing challenges, Spain continues to be a significant global tourism hub, fostering economic growth, job creation, and regional development.

Looking back at 2024, the Spanish tourism sector marked a significant advancement, with its GDP contribution rising by nearly 8% to €248.7 billion, comprising 15.6% of the economy. The industry employed 3 million individuals, representing almost 14% of the nation’s total jobs.

International tourist spending amounted to €107.1 billion, a 10.9% increase year-on-year, while domestic expenditure reached €82.9 billion, up by 2.2% compared to 2023. Leisure travel accounted for the majority of spending in 2024, with the UK, France, and Germany being the main source countries for arrivals into Spain.

Looking ahead to 2035, WTTC projects that the tourism sector in Spain could contribute €315.7 billion to the GDP, employing 4 million individuals. Regionally, in 2024, the EU travel and tourism sector contributed nearly €1.8 trillion to the region’s GDP, representing over 10% of its economy, with employment growing by 4.7% to 24.6 million jobs.

For further details and access to the complete factsheet, please visit WTTC’s Research Hub. The WTTC, which represents the global travel and tourism private sector, has been advocating for the economic and social importance of the industry for more than 30 years.