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Scotland’s international tourism reaches new heights in 2023
Scotland welcomed a record number of international visitors in 2023, with almost four million foreign tourists marking a 15% increase on 2019, according to new figures.
The Office of National Statistics’ International Passenger Survey revealed that these visitors spent £3.5 billion, a 41% increase compared to 2019.
The previous record for international visits was in 2018, when Scotland welcomed 3.7 million foreign tourists.
Chief Executive of VisitScotland Malcolm Rughead said: “These figures mark a turning point for tourism in Scotland, showing not only recovery but also crucial growth in international visitor numbers, with visitor numbers and spending now above 2019 levels. only region of the United Kingdom to have achieved this milestone.
“They are further proof of the strength of Scotland’s offering and the clear desire of people around the world to experience this, with record demand from North America.”
Mr Roughead continued: “Our international visitors are hugely important to Scotland’s tourism industry as well as the wider economy. They often stay longer and spend more, generating several billion pounds annually, supporting a wide range of businesses, jobs and communities across the country.
“With many companies still recovering from the challenges of the pandemic and the current economic climate, this will be welcome news.
“Early feedback from tourism companies, travel trade and airline partners is that this international demand will continue into 2024, with growing interest in visiting at different times of the year and exploring lesser-known locations.”
He added: “At VisitScotland we are not complacent and remain focused on delivering on our core purpose of driving the visitor economy and sustainably increasing its value in Scotland.
“This includes influencing domestic and international visitors before they leave home through our digital channels, as well as working with travel and transport trade partners to support tourism businesses here in Scotland.
“By encouraging regional and seasonal spread, we can ensure that Scotland remains a competitive year-round, must-visit and must-return destination.”
In 2023, international visits to Scotland increased by 23% compared to 2022 and 15% compared to 2019, with North American and European visitors increasing by 16% and 19% respectively. Notably, visits from countries such as Australia and China increased by 53%, contributing to a significant increase in spending.
Scotland’s appeal has been bolstered by improved air connectivity and favorable exchange rates, with new and re-established routes from the US, Canada, China and the Middle East improving accessibility.
Notable air connectivity developments include JetBlue’s new route from New York to Edinburgh, launching next week on May 22, and WestJet’s service from Halifax, which will begin on June 20.
Additionally, Hainan Airlines’ seasonal service between Beijing and Edinburgh returned today (17 May) with a 2024 schedule extended until October, and Emirates’ daily service between Edinburgh and Dubai will return from November.