Statistics of Visits to Georgia for the First Half of 2024

The Georgian Tourism Administration has published visit statistics for the period from January to July 2024. According to the data presented, foreigners made more than 3 million visits to the country, which is an increase of 5.6% compared to the same period last year. These data confirm the steady growth of interest in Georgia as a tourist destination.

Country Report

Growth of Visits

1. Türkiye: 623 thousand visits, up 7.1% compared to last year. Türkiye continues to be the leader in the number of visits to Georgia. Proximity to the border, cultural connections and convenient transport routes contribute to this growth.
2. Israel: 125 thousand visits, up 8.5%. Israeli tourists highly value Georgian cuisine and hospitality.
3. Azerbaijan: 99 thousand visits, an increase of 16%. Mutually beneficial economic relations and the closeness of the two countries contribute to an increase in the number of visits.
4. Kazakhstan: 70.3 thousand visits, an increase of 21.7%. Kazakhstanis are increasingly choosing Georgia for vacation and business trips.
5. Iran: 62 thousand visits, also an increase of 21.7%. Iranian tourists appreciate Georgian natural beauty and historical sites.
6. India: 57.7 thousand visits, up 64.3%. The significant growth is due to an increase in the number of direct flights and an active advertising campaign.
7. Ukraine: 51.4 thousand visits, an increase of 23.3%. Ukrainian tourists traditionally love to visit Georgia for its hospitality and natural beauty.
8. China: 32.8 thousand visits, a significant increase of 159.5%. The rapidly growing interest from Chinese tourists is due to the strengthening of economic and cultural ties between the countries.
9. Germany: 31 thousand visits, an increase of 24.3%. German tourists appreciate the variety of cultural events and natural attractions in Georgia.
10. Uzbekistan: 25.6 thousand visits, an increase of 26.7%. Georgia is becoming an increasingly popular destination for Uzbek tourists.
11. Saudi Arabia: 22.2 thousand visits, an increase of 44.3%. Saudi tourists are discovering Georgia as an exciting new holiday destination.

Decrease in Visits

1. Russia: 527.5 thousand visits, a decrease of 8.7%. The decrease in the number of visits is due to the political situation and economic difficulties.
2. Armenia: 387 thousand visits, a decrease of 2.4%. Despite the proximity and cultural ties, the number of visits has decreased slightly.
3. Belarus: 43.3 thousand visits, a decrease of 2%. Economic factors and transportation difficulties may have contributed to the decline in the number of visits.
4. Poland: 27.6 thousand visits, a decrease of 23.5%. The decline in visits from Poland may be due to competition from other tourist destinations.

Busiest Checkpoints

1. Tbilisi Airport: 705 thousand visits. Tbilisi remains the country’s main aviation hub, receiving the majority of international flights.
2. Checkpoint “Sarpi”: 583 thousand visits. This checkpoint on the border with Turkey is an important transport hub.
3. Kazbegi checkpoint on the border with Russia: 423 thousand visits. The Kazbegi checkpoint remains key for tourists from Russia.
4. Checkpoint “Sadakhlo” on the border with Armenia: 324 thousand visits. This checkpoint is actively used by tourists from Armenia and other neighboring countries.

Analysis and Perspectives

The increase in the number of visits to Georgia indicates the country’s increasing attractiveness as a tourist destination. Important factors for this success are the variety of cultural events, improved infrastructure and the active promotion of Georgia in the international arena.

Of particular interest is the increase in visits from China and India, which may indicate new trends in international tourism. Strengthening transport links and active marketing campaigns help attract tourists from these countries.

At the same time, the decrease in the number of visits from Russia and Poland requires attention and analysis. Additional measures may be needed to improve conditions for tourists from these countries, including easing visa requirements and improving transport accessibility.

Overall, Georgia continues to develop its tourism potential and attract more and more foreign visitors, which contributes to economic growth and cultural exchange.