Home » SEYCHELLES TRAVEL NEWS » Germany, France, Russia, US, UK, Israel and More Drive Record Tourism Growth as Seychelles Nears Pre Pandemic Visitor Peak and Surpasses 2025 Targets
Published on
October 25, 2025
Germany, France, Russia, US, UK, Israel and more are driving record tourism growth in Seychelles as the island nation nears its pre pandemic visitor peak and surpasses 2025 targets, fueled by strong demand from Europe and North America, enhanced international flight connectivity, and the return of key airlines. Consistent weekly arrivals, a rise in new and repeat visitors, and growing interest from emerging markets have contributed to a 12 percent increase in year-to-date arrivals, while robust tourism revenue exceeding 800 million USD underscores the sector’s critical role in the national economy.
With fewer than ten weeks remaining in the year, Seychelles is experiencing a remarkable tourism rebound that is placing the nation on track to outperform its historic 2019 visitor arrivals. Current data confirms that Seychelles has already surpassed its 2025 tourism projections in both visitors and revenue, highlighting a powerful resurgence for one of the world’s most sought-after island destinations.
According to the latest statistics released by the National Bureau of Statistics, Seychelles welcomed 308,854 visitors by Week 42 of 2025 (ending 20 October). This reflects a strong 12% growth compared to the same period in 2024, when arrivals stood at 276,892 visitors. These results also reflect consistent momentum that has carried through the year despite global economic uncertainties and shifting travel trends.
Visitor Arrivals Continue Double-Digit Growth
During Week 42 alone, Seychelles recorded 9,190 tourist arrivals, making it one of the strongest performing weeks of the year. Similar surges were seen during peak travel periods including:
- Week 8 – 9,030 visitors
- Week 15 – 9,607 visitors
- Week 16 – 9,732 visitors
- Week 41 – 9,428 visitors
This steady growth pattern demonstrates the renewed international demand for Seychelles’ pristine beaches, unique biodiversity, and luxury hospitality offerings.
At the current trajectory, Seychelles is on course to reach or exceed the 2019 all-time tourism record of 384,204 visitors, which had long been considered the benchmark year for the sector prior to the global pandemic.
Major Tourism Markets Fuel Growth
Europe continues to dominate Seychelles’ inbound market, contributing the largest share of arrivals. As of Week 42, leading markets include:
Germany remains Seychelles’ most valuable tourism partner, supported by direct connections and strong winter season demand. France and Russia remain important contributors, while Poland and Israel are continuing to emerge as fast-growing secondary markets. The United Arab Emirates has played a key connecting role, serving as a major aviation gateway for long-haul travelers from Europe, Asia, and North America.
Tourism Revenue Tops 803 Million USD
Tourism remains a vital pillar of Seychelles’ economy, and financial performance in 2025 reflects strong industry recovery. Data from the Central Bank of Seychelles confirms that tourism revenue between January and September 2025 reached 803 million USD. This represents a significant boost to foreign earnings, employment, and private investment throughout the islands.
Hotels, guesthouses, resorts, and marine-based tourism services have reported increased bookings, while tour operators and island transport providers are benefitting from steady year-round demand. Forward bookings for November and December indicate strong performance expected through the final quarter of the year.
Strong Airline Connectivity Driving Tourism Momentum
A major factor behind Seychelles’ tourism revival is the restoration of global flight connectivity. In 2025, international air access reached its highest level since 2020 following:
- The return of key European and Middle Eastern airlines
- Additional routes from emerging source markets
- Increased flight frequency during the peak season
- Strategic airline partnerships that improved long-haul capacity
This enhanced access has helped Seychelles compete more effectively with Indian Ocean neighbours such as Maldives and Mauritius, while also broadening its reach into new source markets across Central and Eastern Europe.
Looking Ahead
Industry analysts project that if current trends continue, Seychelles could end 2025 as one of the best-performing tourism economies in the Indian Ocean region. The destination has retained its global appeal through its protected natural environment, secluded beaches, and world-class luxury experiences, while also expanding offerings in adventure, eco-tourism, and cultural heritage travel.
With sustained strategic marketing, expanding aviation partnerships, and increased investments in tourism infrastructure, Seychelles is on track to reclaim and potentially surpass its pre-pandemic glory—ending 2025 as a milestone year in its tourism recovery journey.
