World tourism emerges as leading job creator, projecting 91 million new roles by 2035 – WTTC

GLOBAL – World tourism has solidified its role as a major global employer, with the World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC) forecasting the creation of 91 million new jobs by 2035.

This growth will account for one in every three net new jobs worldwide, reinforcing the sector’s position as a key economic driver, particularly in Africa, Europe, and Asia.

The WTTC’s 2025 report, Future of the Travel & Tourism Workforce, reveals that the sector supported 357 million jobs in 2024 and is projected to reach 371 million in 2025.

Despite this rebound, a looming workforce shortfall of over 43 million workers, 16% below required levels, threatens to hinder growth if unaddressed.

Structural challenges, including shrinking working-age populations and post-pandemic labor shifts, are intensifying demand-supply imbalances.

The hospitality industry alone faces an 8.6 million worker gap, with low-skilled roles remaining the most in demand.

China, India, and the European Union are expected to experience the largest absolute shortfalls, at 16.9 million, 11 million, and 6.4 million respectively.

In relative terms, Japan’s tourism workforce is projected to be 29% below 2035 demand levels, followed by Greece (-27%) and Germany (-26%).

These gaps highlight the urgent need for strategic workforce planning, education alignment, and policy intervention.

In Africa, tourism continues to drive economic recovery in nations like South Africa, Morocco, and Kenya. Wildlife safaris, cultural heritage trails, and coastal tourism attract millions annually.

As infrastructure expands and regional travel improves, employment and revenue are expected to rise significantly.

Europe’s mature tourism markets are adapting through digitalization and sustainability, while Asia-Pacific leads in job creation, fueled by rising middle-class travel and government investment.

Saudi Arabia, for instance, has created over 649,000 training opportunities, with nearly 50% of its tourism workforce being women.

Emerging roles in sustainability and technology are reshaping the sector. Green jobs in eco-certification, carbon accounting, and sustainable supply chain management are in high demand.

Simultaneously, digital transformation is driving need for AI specialists, data analysts, and smart infrastructure technicians across hotels and attractions.

Gloria Guevara, WTTC Interim CEO, called the findings a “call to action,” urging collaboration between governments, educators, and industry leaders. “Travel & Tourism offers dynamic futures for the next generation,” she said. “We must design jobs that inspire and workplaces that reflect modern values.”

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