**Tourism in Georgia Sees Slight Increase, Russia Leads as Top Visitor Source**
In the first quarter of 2025, Georgia saw a slight increase in international non-resident traveler arrivals, with a total of 1.3 million visitors marking a 1.1% growth compared to the same period last year.
According to data from the National Statistic Office of Georgia, Geostat, Russia emerged as the leading country of origin for visitors to Georgia, accounting for 19.3% of the total number with 187.7 thousand visitors. Turkey ranked second with a 16.5% share, followed by Armenia with 13%.
This slight increase in tourism is a welcome development for Georgia’s economy, which has been affected by various global and regional factors in recent years.
**Breakdown of Visitors**
* The majority of visits (42.2%) were for holiday, leisure, and recreation, amounting to 494.7 thousand.
* Tbilisi and Adjara Autonomous Republic received the most visits – 665.7 thousand and 301.8 thousand, respectively.
* Nearly half (47.4%) of all travelers were aged between 31-50.
**Analysis**
The slight increase in tourism is a positive sign for Georgia’s economy, which relies heavily on the tourism sector. However, it’s worth noting that the growth rate is modest compared to previous years.
Russia’s emergence as the leading country of origin for visitors is also significant, given the strained relations between Georgia and Russia in recent times. This trend suggests that despite tensions, Russians are still interested in visiting Georgia.
The increase in tourism also highlights the need for Georgia to improve its infrastructure and services to cater to the growing number of visitors. Upgrading airports, hotels, and tourist facilities will be crucial in maintaining the country’s competitiveness in the global tourism market.
**Commentary**
“The slight increase in tourism is a positive development for Georgia’s economy,” said Giorgi Khishtbekishvili, an economist at Tbilisi State University. “However, it’s essential to note that this growth rate is modest compared to previous years, and we need to work harder to improve our infrastructure and services to cater to the growing number of visitors.”
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