How High-Income Travelers Are Redefining Global Tourism Trends
Affluent travelers are poised to become the driving force behind global tourism growth over the next five years, reshaping where and how the world travels. According to new research from Visa Business and Economic Insights, households earning more than $200,000 a year make up just 5% of the global population, yet account for a staggering one in every four dollars spent worldwide.
These high-income travelers are not only resilient in the face of a slowing world economy but are also broadening their horizons—seeking out both established hotspots like London, Dubai, and Tokyo and emerging destinations such as Hokkaido in Japan, Mendoza in Argentina, and Mersa Matruh in Egypt.
Their spending power is most visible in premium accommodations, fine dining, and luxury shopping, with cross-border spending levels triple those of non-affluent visitors. With Asia Pacific’s affluent household share set to rise sharply and MENA’s connectivity boosting intra-regional tourism, the habits and preferences of these travelers are expected to shape the next phase of the global tourism industry.
| Hokkaido, Japan | Mendoza, Argentina | Mersa Matruh, Egypt |
|---|---|---|
| Private Ski Chalets in Niseko – Exclusive slopes, in-villa chefs, and spa services. | Private Vineyard Tours – Rare vintages in exclusive wine cellars with top sommeliers. | Private Yacht Excursions – Hidden coves and on-board dining. |
| Heli-Skiing – Access untouched powder by private helicopter. | Chef’s Table Dining – Malbec pairings with bespoke tasting menus. | Luxury Desert Safaris – 4×4 adventures with overnight luxury tents. |
| Gourmet Seafood Dining – King crab, sea urchin, and scallops at fine-dining spots. | Helicopter Over the Andes – Aerial views of Aconcagua and remote valleys. | VIP Cleopatra’s Beach Access – Swim in legendary waters with full privacy. |
| Luxury Onsen Retreats – Private open-air hot springs in exclusive ryokans. | Luxury Estancia Stays – Horseback riding, spa treatments, and wine-paired dinners. | Siwa Oasis Wellness Retreats – Spa rituals with local salts and herbs. |
| Private Wildlife Tours – Explore Shiretoko’s UNESCO wilderness with expert guides. | Olive Oil Masterclasses – Sampling award-winning artisanal oils. | Curated Cultural Tours – Ancient ruins with Egyptologist-led private tours. |
Affluent Travelers Boost Global Luxury Spending as Emerging Markets Rise
Spending patterns suggest that affluent travelers allocate a significant share of their budgets to dining, shopping, and premium accommodations. In Australia, domestic luxury travelers spend about one-third of their travel budgets on food, drink, and retail purchases. Globally, affluent travelers’ cross-border credit card spending at destinations is three times that of non-affluent visitors, with retail making up a large portion of that total.
The report highlights the growing influence of emerging markets. Since 2010, North America and Europe’s share of affluent households has declined, while Asia Pacific’s share has risen to about 10% and is projected to reach 12% by 2030. Affluent households in the region are expected to grow at an annual rate of 8%, the fastest in the world.
In the Middle East and North Africa, stronger air connectivity, more relaxed visa rules, and short-haul appeal are boosting intra-regional travel. Affluent travelers account for 55% of cross-border trips within the region and 65% of trips between MENA and Europe.
Affluent Travelers Poised to Shape Tourism’s Future
Survey data indicate that affluent consumers travel nearly twice as often as non-affluent travelers, with the majority planning at least one trip in the next year. Japan has seen notable growth in visits from high-income travelers from the United States, Australia and the United Arab Emirates, drawn by its mix of cultural heritage and modern amenities.
Visa’s analysis concludes that affluent travelers are not only resilient in the face of economic headwinds but are also shaping the direction of the global travel industry. Their preferences for diverse destinations and premium experiences are expected to define the next phase of tourism growth.
