for travel is fuelling the rapid growth, which is expected to outperform global gross domestic product in 2023 - projected to slow to 2.7 per cent, according to the International Monetary Fund.
But as of September this year, 86 countries have lifted all COVID-related restrictions, with many others easing their regulations. “Travel has rebounded very strongly, basically reflecting the intrinsic desire of people to be with loved ones, to experience nature and to experience new things. The forecast looks bright,” he said.A survey by the WTTC showed that 63 per cent of respondents were planning a leisure trip in the next 12 months, while 27 per cent were planning three or more trips over the next year.
“The traffic is intensifying month-on-month. So I think by the start of 2023, we will see the monthly throughput that is quite representative of pre-pandemic levels,” said Mr Paul Griffiths, chief executive officer of Dubai Airport. Mr Griffiths noted that the current demand-supply imbalance for flights was likely to correct itself, which could be good news for travellers.
Despite the positive trajectory, global headwinds are expected with soaring inflation and risks of a global recession.