The Kenya National Bureau of Statistics’ (KNBS) May 2025 Leading Economic Indicators (LEI) report reveals strong growth in international visitor arrivals and signals a sustained rebound in the country’s tourism sector.
Visitor Arrivals on the Rise
In May 2025, international arrivals through Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA) and Moi International Airport (MIA) reached 171,269, marking a 1.2% increase over April’s 169,230 arrivals. This represents a robust 45.6% surge compared to 117,639 arrivals in May 2024 year-on-year.
“The total number of visitor arrivals at JKIA, MIA, and other border points increased from 169,230 in April 2025 to 171,269 in May 2025,” KNBS noted. “Arrivals at JKIA rose by 4.4% to 119,836, while MIA saw a 23.9% decline to 7,121.”
January to May Trends
From January to May 2025, Kenya welcomed 922,961 tourists, up 2.3% from 902,076 during the same period in 2024. The highest monthly arrivals were recorded in January (217,753) and February (196,146).
JKIA remains the top gateway, followed by MIA, land border crossings, and cruise terminals.
Drivers of Growth
Kenya’s rebound is attributed to four strategic pillars:
- Expanded Air Connectivity
New direct flights from Mumbai, Dubai, and Johannesburg to Nairobi and Mombasa are improving access from key global markets. - Tourism Diversification
Kenya is branching beyond traditional safaris to offer cruise tourism, cultural heritage experiences, adventure activities like hiking, and sports tourism through events such as the World Rally Championship and international marathons. - Aggressive Global Marketing
The Ministry of Tourism and the Kenya Tourism Board (KTB) have stepped up campaigns under the “Magical Kenya” brand, leveraging travel expos, digital outreach, and influencer partnerships. - Visa-Free Travel Policy
Recent visa-free entry reforms have streamlined access and boosted inbound tourism.
Cabinet Secretary Rebecca Maino noted, “Kenya is targeting over 5 million tourists in the medium term. We are seeing renewed momentum across source markets and product offerings.”
WTTC Forecasts Record-Breaking Economic Impact
According to research from the World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC):
- Kenya’s Travel & Tourism sector is set to contribute KSh1.2 trillion to the economy in 2025—a 24% rise above 2019 levels, representing over 7% of national GDP
- Sector employment is expected to hit 1.7 million jobs, or 8% of national employment
- Domestic visitor spending is projected to reach nearly KSh560 billion, while international spending is forecast to surpass KSh300 billion
WTTC President & CEO Julia Simpson said, “Kenya is on track for an exceptional year. Its nature, culture, and hospitality are everything today’s traveller seeks.”
Outlook to 2035
The World Travel & Tourism Council projects that by 2035, travel & tourism will contribute KSh1.8 trillion, supporting 2.2 million jobs. International visitor spending is expected to reach KSh409 billion, and domestic spending to hit KSh821 billion.
