growth of religious tourism

Faith-based Tourism Market

Faith-based Tourism Market Analysis by Pilgrimage Tours and Museums Tours through 2034

Asia Pacific Redefines Faith-based Tourism with Social Media and Spiritual Fortification. FMI Elaborates the Union of Spiritual Tourism and Latest Technology

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Faith-based Tourism Market Outlook from 2024 to 2034

The faith-based tourism market is predicted to surge at a CAGR of 9.1% during the forecast period. The industry is standing at USD 16,066.1 million as of 2024 and is on its way forward to cross USD 38,384.8 million by 2034.

Many people today seek more meaning and purpose in their lives. As a result, more are traveling for religious affiliation, such as retreats and pilgrimages. This is the main reason for the growth in faith-based tourism.

As the world becomes more connected, people are more interested in learning about different cultures and religions. Many people want to understand and engage with other religious traditions, increasing the popularity of faith-based tourism.

The global religious tourism industry is large, with more than one-third of international tourists traveling for religious reasons. This translates to about 450 million international trips made for religious purposes.

UNESCO states that 60% of people globally follow a religion, forming the core group for religious tourism. The appeal of religious tourism is significant, with 25% of travelers showing interest in this type of tourism.

Global Faith-based Tourism Industry Analysis

Demographic changes like an aging population, a growing middle class, and greater mobility also boost faith-based tourism. Millennials, middle-class families, and older people all seek memorable trips that reflect their values and spiritual beliefs.

Religious tourism providers make money by offering accommodation, travel, food, and other services. This helps to boost faith-based tourism and economic development. For instance, the Hajj pilgrimage in Mecca is not just a religious duty but also a big boost for Saudi Arabia's economy. As a result, faith-based traveling is getting more attention and funding to stimulate the economy and help locals maintain their way of life.

Faith-based travelers seek unique experiences that match their spiritual beliefs. This demand has led to specialized faith-based travel programs like themed pilgrimages, health retreats, and cultural immersions. This offers many faith-based tourism market opportunities.

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Semi Annual Market Update

The table shows how quickly the global industry is expected to grow from 2024 to 2034. It also compares these new forecasts with the previous ones from 2023 to 2033.

The industry is expected to take its pace at a CAGR of 9% in the first half of the previous forecast decade, from 2023 to 2033. This rate is predicted to decrease slightly to 8.7% in the second half of this period. From 2024 to 2034, the growth rate of faith-based tourism is ready to take off at 8.6% and increase to 9.5% in the second half of this period.

Key Industry Highlights

Asia Boosts Opportunities for Religious Tourism Operators

The Asia Pacific is known as the global center for religious tourism, attracting the most pilgrims and travelers for religious events, both from within the region and internationally. Worldwide, there are about 600 million spiritual journeys & retreats, with more than half in Asia.

Religious sites worldwide attract diverse religious groups. Many travelers seek spiritual experiences to cope with daily stress, often interested in ancient practices from South East Asia. The Middle East has many emerging destinations for faith-based tourism, with Jordan being an important hotspot.

Digital Age Modernizes Pilgrims’ Way of Experiencing Sacred Places

Sustainable and responsible travel is also becoming popular in pilgrimage tourism. Tourists want authentic experiences that respect local cultures and support eco-friendly practices. Religious sites & landmarks like St. Francis of Assisi's birthplace in Italy promote green travel and help local green businesses.

The internet has changed how religious tourism is advertised and experienced. For example, virtual reality tours of the Vatican let visitors see sacred places without leaving home, creating new opportunities in technology.

Role of technology in faith-based tourism is irrefutable. Technology has made it easier to find information on faith-based tourist places, activities, and travel options. There's a chance to create online platforms for virtual tours, live streams of religious events, and online shopping for religious items.

These websites can help people who can't visit in person. 'Sacred Spaces Online', for instance, is one such site where users can walk around different sacred sites from home. This is important for the growth of cultural tourism industry .

Technology Deepens the Spiritual Journey of Pilgrims

Technology and innovation have changed how pilgrims experience sacred places and rituals. It's not just an emerging trend in faith-based tourism but a big change that makes pilgrimages more accessible, personal, and fulfilling. This includes things like mobile applications and social media that satisfy pilgrims' needs and inspire entrepreneurs in the travel industry.

Social media marketing has greatly helped promote faith-based travel. The 'FaithConnect' app is one such example that users document their pilgrimage in real-time. These innovations are redefining pilgrimages and making them more inspirational.

The blend of technology, innovation, and spirituality is creating a new chapter in religious tourism, respecting the past and welcoming the future.

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2019 to 2023 Global Faith-based Tourism Sales Outlook Compared to Demand Forecasts from 2024 to 2034

The market size of faith-based tourism was USD 10,489.9 million in 2019 and USD 14,753.1 million in 2023. Keeping in mind the CAGR of 8.9% from 2019 to 2023, it can be inferred that the faith-based tourism market investment and development opportunities are set to remain steady and open in key prevalent countries.

During the recent past, the impact of COVID-19 on faith-based tourism was noteworthy. Many countries imposed travel restrictions and lockdowns to stop the virus. Worship places, pilgrimage sites, and religious destinations were temporarily closed or had limited access.

Religious festivals, activities, and pilgrimages were postponed. Many faith-based travel companies faced financial problems due to fewer bookings and many cancellations.

Post-pandemic, the faith-based travel market has changed and adapted. Domestic religious tourism has grown. More people now accept online spiritual activities and virtual tours. Gen Z and millennial pilgrims are seeking unique tourism experiences. Niche areas like eco-spiritual travel and wellness getaways are expanding.

Retail brands are quickly moving into religious cities because of the booming tourism there. Brands in various sectors like fashion, food, hypermarkets, homeware, and electronics are customizing their offerings to cater to the needs of pilgrims. For example, the shops near the Vatican City sell unique religious souvenirs that people from all over the world want to buy.

Sacred places often host religious events and gatherings. This creates a need for event planners who understand and respect religious traditions. For example, the Kumbh Mela in India, a huge religious gathering, relies on event managers to organize everything for millions of people.

Market Concentration

Tier 1 companies lead the faith-based tourism industry with big names like Globus, Collette, G Adventures, Abercrombie & Kent, and Tauck controlling it. They bring in about USD 8,114.2 million, which is 55% of the global industry share. They are known for their high-quality services, extensive luxury faith-based travel packages, and strong reputation.

These companies offer well-organized tours, expert guides, and comfortable accommodations. They attract a large number of customers due to their reliability and excellent customer experiences.

Tier 2 companies like Educational Travel Services, Pilgrim Tours, Israel Travel Center, Journeys Unlimited, and Gate 1 Travel hold about 35% of the global industry value share, worth USD 5,163.6 million. Even though Tier 2 companies are not as big as Tier 1, they are favorites of budget-conscious customers because of their affordability.

They offer good value for money with reasonably priced travel packages. These companies provide reliable services and a variety of travel options, making them popular among those looking for cost-effective faith-based tours.

Tier 3 includes companies like Living Passages, Regina Tours, Kensington Tours, Cosmos, and Airtours. Even though they're less significant than Tier 1 and Tier 2 companies, they still generate a good amount of revenue, about USD 1,475.3 million. This is about 10% of the industry.

What makes them special is that they always have room for further growth, and they focus on doing so by implementing the latest trends. They have the potential to emerge as strong competitors in front of companies from the other two tiers. These companies are innovative and adaptable, which helps them attract new customers and expand their industry share.

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Country-wise Insights

The following section discusses the faith-based tourism market regional tourism reports. The report provides information about key economies in Europe, Asia Pacific, and North America.

In North America, the United States is leading and is on its way to surge at 5.9% yearly until 2034. In Europe, Italy tops the chart in the faith-based tourism industry and is set to progress at 6.9% yearly until 2034.

In Asia Pacific, India is emerging as a leading market for faith-based tourism. It is on track to grow more rapidly than China, with a yearly growth rate of 16.3% compared to China's 19.2% until 2034.

The United States Leads in Faith-based Tourism, Canada Emerges as a Growing Market

The United States’ faith-based tourism industry is around 4% to 9% of the world's industry. In the United States, there are around 335,000 religious congregations. In a recent survey, over 35% of Americans who travel abroad want to do faith-based trips.

These numbers will likely go up quickly because people like real experiences. They want to explore cultures and spiritual traditions linked to pilgrimage spots and religions.

The 5.9% CAGR expected for the United States faith-based tourism market means that this type of tourism is growing steadily, but not rapidly. This suggests that there are already a lot of pilgrimage tourism options available in the country. On top of that, in this country, there is a notable diversity of religious sites and experiences catering to tourists from various backgrounds.

By the end of the forecast period, however, Canada is set to establish itself as a key market for faith-based traveling at a 13.4% CAGR. In Canada, there are lots of interesting places to visit for people who like religious travel. Individuals can see old cathedrals, important shrines, convents, and temples.

Italy Appeared as a Haven in Europe for Religious Tourism with Strong Cultural Appeal

Italy is a top spot for religious tourism because it has many Christian and Catholic places of worship. Among the 60 million Italians, a significant 85% identify as Christian. The tourism industry in Italy is valued at around USD 27.3 billion as of 2024.

Italian travelers have a strong preference for cultural experiences over nature and show a keen interest in discovering new cultures. According to Europ Assistance, 34% of Italian travelers find visiting religious sites and places of worship interesting during their holidays.

People from Northern Europe, especially, like Italy because of its peaceful vibe and religious places to visit. As they have more money to spend and a desire to see old religious sites, the spiritual tourism industry in Italy is likely to grow in the coming years.

As a result, the faith-based tourism market in Italy is anticipated to experience a moderate CAGR of 6.9%. This opens up chances for entrepreneurs to create new ideas.

Government Support and Infrastructure Development Spotlight India's Religious Tourism

The faith-based tourism market in India is forecasted to expand at a CAGR of 19.2%. Places of religious tourism witnessed 1439 million tourists and earned USD 1.3 trillion in 2022, discloses government data.

The Indian government sees religious tourism as very important and is working to support and grow these sites. It is improving infrastructure, protecting heritage places, and making it easier to travel and stay there.

India's religious and cultural history makes religious tourism a big part of its overall tourism. The government aims for 20 million foreign tourists by 2020 and wants to double the money they bring in. The country has programs like PRASAD to make pilgrimages more spiritual, Swadesh Darshan to develop tourist circuits, and E-Visa to help tourists get visas online.

Spiritual tourism is becoming more popular in India. It's not just Indians, but people from all over the world are coming to visit. The recent grand consecration of the Ram temple in Ayodhya brought the city into the global tourism spotlight. The event drew attention from all over. This celebration has given a significant boost to India's economy.

The increase in religious tourism is going to help small businesses in travel, tourism, and hospitality to grow. This creates chances for entrepreneurs in many different places.

Category-wise Insights

This section of faith-based tourism market forecast analysis arranges for the whole story about the industry's top segments. In terms of tour type, the pilgrimage tours segment is estimated to dominate by holding a share of 41.3% in 2024. By tourist type, the domestic tourist category is projected to cement its status quo as the undisputed winner by acquiring a share of 63.2% in 2024.

Pilgrimage Tours Capture Hearts of Faith-based Tourists

Pilgrimage tours are popular in the faith-based tourism market because they offer unique experiences that combine spirituality, culture, and history. People go on pilgrimage tours to visit sacred places, such as temples, churches, and holy sites that hold deep religious significance.

Many people view pilgrimages as a way to seek blessings, guidance, and healing, making these tours highly sought after. More young people nowadays are interested in exploring different religions and cultures. They want to understand customs, beliefs, and history, leading to a higher demand for these types of tours.

Pilgrimage sites have a lot of cultural and historical worth. This attracts tourists seeking spiritual growth and cultural experiences. These faith-based tours also offer special experiences like pilgrimages and worship services, which are popular among certain religious groups interested in history and religion.

Faith-based Travel is a Preferred Choice of Domestic Tourists

When it comes to the growth of domestic vs. international faith-based tourism, the industry is mostly made up of domestic travelers. This is due to the fact that they often find it easier to get to these places compared to tourists from other countries.

Going on religious trips locally can be cheaper. So, it might be easier and less costly for them to visit since they're close to these places of worship. Older people often do religious tourism. They like to visit local places in their own country because of their age and health issues.

Local tourists often know the cultural and religious importance of these sites. This makes them want to visit for spiritual or pilgrimage reasons. They might also feel a stronger duty or devotion to go to these places because of their emotional connection to their religion.

People who travel within their own country often have stronger connections with their family and community. So, when they visit places of worship, they can take part in religious activities and connect with local people. This helps them strengthen their social and family relationships.

Competition Outlook

Faith-based tourism market opportunity analysis indicates that companies compete depending on the quality and range of services they provide. The market is competitive because there are many big and small players. It includes different types of businesses like travel agencies, hotels, and online booking platforms.

To stay ahead in the game, the major players in the faith-based tourism industry are putting their entire focus on the unique selling points of their offerings to differentiate them. Top companies are working on making their services better. They do this by giving discounts, offering new places to visit, providing faith-friendly accommodations, and creating special deals. This helps them stay ahead of the competition.

The faith-based tourism market competitive landscape shows that top companies are also concentrating on the affordability aspect, which is very crucial for pilgrimage tourism.

Industry Updates

• In May 2024, the American Council on Education (ACE) created the ACE Commission on faith-based colleges and universities. The commission aims to highlight the valuable contributions of religious colleges and universities. It also wants to promote cooperation between religious and nonreligious institutions to improve higher education in areas like access, affordability, and graduation rates.
• In May 2024, plans to create more good schools by removing the faith cap were announced by the United Kingdom government. A consultation will start to remove the 50% cap for new faith free schools. There are also ideas about opening special faith-based academies.
• In March 2024, Pride Hotels Group started expanding in important spiritual places in India to benefit from the rise in faith-based tourism. They want to serve the increasing number of travelers, both from India and abroad, who are going on spiritual trips. The group is focusing on adding new properties at pilgrimage sites like Pride Resort Ambaji and Pride Comfort Dwarka in Gujarat to provide great hospitality that suits the needs of modern pilgrims.
• In April 2023, OYO, a hospitality tech firm, said it is going to open 50 places to stay in Ayodhya, a famous religious spot in India, to grow its business. About half of these will be homes run by locals, and the other half will be small hotels with 10 to 20 rooms each. The Ayodhya Development Authority and Uttar Pradesh State Tourism Development Corporation are helping speed up this plan.

Leading Faith-based Tourism Brands

• Martin Randall Travel Ltd
• Heritage Tours & Travels
• Bestway Tours & Safaris
• Regina Tours
• Travelway Europe
• 206 Tours Inc.
• Maranatha Tours
• Indus Travels Inc.
• Brightspark Travel Inc.
• Wendy Wu Tours
• ACE Cultural Tours
• Kesari Tours Pvt Ltd
• Go Thailand Tours
• N.S. Travel & Tours Co., Ltd
• Vansol Travel & Tours
• Catholic Travel Centre
• Amiel Tours LTD
• Israel Travel Providers, LLC
• Gil Travel Group

Key Segments of Faith-based Tourism Industry Reports

By tourist type:.

In terms of tourist type, the industry is bifurcated into domestic tourist and international tourist.

By Tour Type:

Based on tour type, the industry is divided into museums tours, pilgrimages tours, pilgrimage tours, and others.

By Traveler Type:

Depending on traveler type, the industry is segmented into independent traveler, tour group, and package traveler.

By Booking Channel:

When it comes to service provider, the industry is trifurcated into phone booking, online booking, and in person booking.

By Consumer Orientation:

Based on consumer orientation, the industry is branched into men, women, and children.

By Age Group:

In terms of age group, the industry is categorized into 15 to 25 years, 26 to 35 years, 36 to 45 years, 46 to 55 years, 56 to 65 years, and 66 to 75 years, and above 75 years.

A regional analysis of the industry is conducted across North America, Europe, the Middle East and Africa, East Asia, South Asia, Oceania, and Latin America.

Frequently Asked Questions

How big is the faith-based tourism market.

The industry is set to reach a valuation of USD 16,066.1 million in 2024.

What is the Projected Adoption Rate between 2024 and 2034?

A CAGR of 9.1% is projected for the industry through 2034.

How Much Revenue this Industry is Expected to Generate by 2034?

Faith-based tourism market forecast suggests opportunities worth USD 38,384.8 million by 2034.

Which Tour Type is Massively Contributing to the Industry Growth?

Pilgrimage tours to account for a significant industry share in 2024.

Which Country Offers Growth Opportunities?

India is predicted to be an investment hotspot for investors and stakeholders.

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The growth trajectory of religious tourism in key markets

Emerging Markets | Tourism

– Faith-based travel generates significant tourism revenue in key markets

– MENA countries are developing transport and cultural offerings to improve capacity

– Religious events represent key drivers of arrivals to some regions

– Technology can help improve connectivity and access to faith-based offerings

With many emerging markets diversifying their tourism offerings , faith-based tourism is set to become a key segment for a number of markets worldwide.

An estimated 330m people travel for religious reasons each year, according to the UN Word Tourism Organisation, forming a significant market for countries with attractions of spiritual or sacred value. These trips include pilgrimages as well as sightseeing trips to important historical and religious sites throughout the year. Additionally, a 2017 study reported that some 25% of travellers expressed interest in this form of tourism, whether for spiritual or non-spiritual reasons.

Global revenue from faith-based tourism is projected to total $15.1bn in 2023, according to market analysis firm Future Market Insights, and this figure could reach $41bn by 2033.

In addition to supporting job creation and local economies, religious tourism is helping to spur investment in logistics infrastructure, preservation and wider recreational offerings around the world.

Boosting connectivity

In areas that already experience sizeable inflows of religious tourists, new strategies and infrastructure projects are helping to prevent over-tourism while enabling capacity for growth.

In India, which boasts important sites for a number of faiths, religious tourism flows have reached record highs, with some tour companies registering growth 15% above pre-Covid-19 pandemic levels. Pilgrims include both domestic and foreign tourists, as well as those from the country’s significant diaspora population.

International arrivals to Saudi Arabia are currently driven by individuals participating in the Hajj and Umrah pilgrimages. The Kingdom hosted 17.3m international tourists in 2019. Of that number, an estimated 2.49m Muslims gathered in Makkah for the annual Hajj pilgrimage, marking what is thought to be the largest gathering of humans in history.

While numbers fell during the pandemic, they have since begun to recover, and some 1m people participated in 2022. Saudi Arabia aims to host 30m religious tourists in 2030, part of a wider goal to attract 100m domestic and international tourists annually in line with Saudi Vision 2030.

To improve the visitor experience and mitigate the undesirable effects of over-tourism, construction projects such as the $35bn redevelopment of King Abdulaziz International Airport aim to improve local capacity to accommodate arrivals. Slated for completion in the fourth quarter of 2026, the expansion plans include a dedicated Hajj terminal.

The $16bn Makkah Metro project, meanwhile, will open four new metro lines to connect sites of religious importance in Makkah.

The Kingdom is working to promote the Umrah pilgrimage − which can be performed throughout the year – in an effort to mitigate overcrowding and other key issues. The Saudi Arabia Tourism and Research Centre estimates that foreign Umrah arrivals have tripled since 2005. Starting from mid-2022 visitors who receive a tourist visa through the country’s newly launched e-visa programme are allowed to perform the Umrah.

Other countries in MENA are engaged in the restoration and preservation of sites with historical and spiritual importance to the three Abrahamic religions, which could help boost international tourist arrivals. Egypt’s Ministry of Tourism and Antiquities announced last summer that it would renovate the town of Al Wadi in the Sinai Peninsula, home to the fortified monastery of Deir El Wadi which dates to the 6th century.

These developments come as part of a wider tourism initiative known as the Great Transfiguration Project, which aims to develop sites in the Sinai Peninsula to attract spiritual and recreational tourism to the area. First announced in 2020, plans include further development of the area around St Catherine’s Monastery to improve tourism offerings, as well as the operation of an international airport with flights to Cairo and Athens.

Meanwhile, Jordan’s Ministry of Tourism and Antiquities has begun work on the first phase of a tourism trail from Mt Nebo to the Jordan Valley, which was first announced in 2021. The trail includes sites of spiritual significance for Christians, as well as adventure, cultural and medical offerings.

Regional resilience

Faith-based tourism represents a key driver of regional growth, with religious attractions responsible for a large portion of arrivals in certain markets, especially during pilgrimages and other festivals.

The Indian state of Gujarat, for example, saw tourist inflows reach 44.8m in 2017, with 36% of that number coming for spiritual purposes. India is also home to the Kumbh Mela, an important religious festival in Hinduism that is considered one of the largest religious gatherings globally. In 2019 the festival attracted 200m visitors to Uttar Pradesh State, with some 50m participating during the celebration’s most auspicious day.

Some states in Mexico, a top global performer in tourism, are targeting religious tourism as a strategic growth segment. The state of Jalisco, home to attractions such as the Cathedral Basilica of San Juan de los Lagos, ranks second behind Mexico City in terms of preferred destinations for religious tourists, attracting 11m arrivals each year and some $330m in tourism earnings.

Festivities surrounding patron saint days are key drivers of tourism revenue for hotels, restaurants and other local services. The Zapopan Religious Festival held on October 12, for example, attracts between 1m and 2m tourists to the region each year.

On a national scale, Mexico’s Ministry of Tourism estimates that 40m people a year participate in pilgrimages, generating close to MXN20bn ($1.12bn) in revenue.

In Brazil, another global centre for religious festivals, various states have established itineraries to drive visits to religious sites, such the churches of Ouro Preto in Minas Gerais, classified as a UNESCO World Heritage site. The country hosts more than 200 religious events each year, including the procession of Círio de Nazaré in the city of Belém, Pará State, which was attended by 2.5m people in 2022. In 2019 religious tourism drew an estimated $15bn into Brazil’s economy.

Technological transformation

Mirroring the acceleration of digitalisation during the pandemic, technology is beginning to both support and influence the development of religious tourism.

Backed by TBO.com, a global travel distribution technology platform, Saudi Arabia-based Zamzam.com is an online travel agency platform dedicated to religious travel. The company specialises in Umrah travel services, including a range of offerings such as visas, flights and sightseeing packages.

In September 2022 Saudi Arabia’s Ministry of Hajj and Umrah launched Nusuk, an official digital platform to facilitate the planning of visits to Makkah and Medina for religious purposes, in line with the Vision 2030 Pilgrim Experience Programme.

In early 2023 Saudi national telecom provider stc installed 92 broadcast towers in the Holy Mosque in Makkah, as well as seven communication towers over an area of 1.5m sq metres, part of efforts to boost the digital infrastructure in the city and provide greater connectivity to pilgrims.

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RELIGIOUS TOURISM MARKET SIZE AND SHARE ANALYSIS - GROWTH TRENDS AND FORECASTS (2024-2031)

Religious tourism market, by type (catholicism , islam , buddhism , confucianism , hinduism , and others), by age group (below 20 years , 20-30 years , 30-40 years , 40-50 years , and above 50 years), by geography (north america, latin america, europe, asia pacific, middle east & africa).

• Published In : Apr 2024
• Code : CMI6868
• Pages : 132
• Formats :   Excel and PDF
• Industry : Consumer Goods
• Religious Tourism Market Size and Trends

The religious tourism market is estimated to be valued at USD 1,293.71 Bn in 2024 and is expected to reach USD 2,010.41 Bn by 2031 , growing at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 6.5% from 2024 to 2031.

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The religious tourism market is expected to witness significant growth during the forecast period. The rising interest of people towards religious activities and pilgrimages to sacred places is driving the market. Furthermore, improving global economic conditions and rising disposable incomes are also contributing to the increased spending on religious trips. Key destinations such as Mecca, Vatican City, Jerusalem, and Varanasi are witnessing high tourist inflow every year. However, the outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic restricted global travel which negatively impacted the religious tourism industry in the short-term. But long-term outlook seems positive as international travel restrictions ease.

Religious Pilgrimages and Festivals

The concept of religious pilgrimages and festivals has been an integral part of many religions across the world since ancient times. People consider it their religious duty to visit places of worship and participate in festivals associated with their faith at regular intervals. This deepens their spiritual connection with their religion and gives them an opportunity to pray at holy sites. Some of the most prominent pilgrimages include the Hajj pilgrimage to Mecca that every able-bodied Muslim aims to undertake at least once in their lifetime. Similarly, adherents of Christianity consider visiting the Holy Land which includes Bible cities like Jerusalem, Bethlehem, and Nazareth as highly significant.

Other examples are religious festivals that are organized periodically at places of worship throughout the year. These festivals celebrate important events related to religious figures or commemorate significant dates. They provide an atmosphere of faith, devotion, spirituality and togetherness. The large footfall during these festivals has encouraged development of facilities for accommodation, food and other necessities in and around pilgrimage destinations and holy cities. It has made regional economies dependent on income generated from religious tourism. The increasing disposable incomes and growing middle classes in many parts of the world have contributed to rising numbers of international participants as well. This sustained demand has further spurred investments to improve infrastructure and service quality.

• Market Concentration and Competitive Landscape

A large proportion of religious tourists are motivated by the prospect of enhanced spiritual well-being, inner peace, and relief from stress and even healing from diseases that they associate with their pilgrimages and festivals. Being in the proximity of places revered in scriptures or the presence of religious sites is considered spiritually uplifting. It offers an opportunity to pray for wellness, give offerings or participate in rituals aimed at alleviating health issues. This psychological assurance and faith in receiving spiritual benefits is a major driver for many devotees. The growing emphasis on spiritual health and holistic healing approaches in recent years has further strengthened such beliefs. Many destinations have therefore leveraged this sentiment skillfully in their marketing by highlighting the spiritual energies of their shrines. This supernatural appeal continues to be an important pull factor.

The religious tourism market faces several challenges. Strict visa policies and travel warnings inhibit travel to some religious destinations for security and safety reasons. Additionally, many religious sites see heavy footfall throughout the year which can damage artifacts and heritage sites if not managed sustainably. Over-commercialization at certain sites also detracts from the spiritual and religious experience sought by pilgrims.

 Market Opportunities: Increased airline connectivity and budget accommodations

Increased airline connectivity and budget accommodations have made travel more accessible. Many countries are promoting niche religious routes and festivals to extend tourist visits beyond pilgrimage periods. Digital platforms help travelers plan religious trips more efficiently. Some destinations are enhancing tourist infrastructure and services near religious places to boost revenue from pilgrim visits.

Catholicism is the largest segment in the religious tourism market based on type with 24.1% of the market share. There are over 1.3 billion Catholics worldwide who look to visit famous churches, cathedrals, shrines, and other religious sites central to their faith. The Catholic faith is deeply ingrained in the culture and traditions of many communities and societies globally. Visiting the birthplace of Jesus in Bethlehem or seeing St. Peter's Basilica in Rome are profoundly spiritual experiences for Catholics. Many also see Religious Tourism as a way to retrace the footsteps of important figures in Church history and immerse themselves in the rich heritage of Catholicism. The widespread prevalence of Catholicism across Europe, Latin America, the U.S., and Philippines translates to a large pool of potential travelers. Significant Catholic populations in countries like France, Italy, Spain, Mexico, and the Philippines drive strong domestic religious tourism internally. Additionally, older Catholics above 50 years may have more flexibility and resources to undertake pilgrimages. The Church also actively promotes Catholic sites through publications and events to encourage religious tourism. Overall, the combination of cultural, historical, and spiritual aspects alongside a massive global reach has made Catholicism the dominant religious segment.

Insights, By Age Group: Age Group - 30-40 years contributes the highest share of the market due to greater discretionary income and flexible work schedules

Among different age groups, those aged 30-40 years account for 35.2% share of the religious tourism market. People in this demographic typically have higher disposable incomes from being established in their careers. They also have more flexible work schedules and vacation time compared to younger populations. Work commitments may be less demanding for them compared to those over 40 years of age who have greater family responsibilities. The desire for spiritual enrichment and cultural experiences also grows stronger during this phase of life. Religious tourism provides an opportunity for self-reflection and spending quality time with families. Those in their 30s and 40s can easily afford to take brief pilgrimages or longer religious tours. Destinations catering to different faiths skillfully market themselves to this high spending demographic through digital platforms and travel blogs focusing on themes like pilgrimages with kids. Their higher engagement on social media further boosts awareness of attractive religious tourism options.

• Regional Insights

The Middle East region has dominated the global religious tourism market for decades with 38.9% of the market share. Home to the holiest sites in Islam including Mecca, Medina, and Jerusalem, Middle Eastern countries like Saudi Arabia and Israel receive millions of pilgrims annually. The Umrah and Hajj pilgrimages to Mecca alone attract over 3 million international visitors each year. Saudi Arabia leverages its position as the custodian of these sites to promote religious tourism as a major economic driver. It has invested heavily in expanding airport and transportation infrastructure as well as accommodations near religious sites to facilitate pilgrimage. The country earns a significant portion of its GDP through service industries catering to religious visitors’ needs. Religious institutions and tourism boards in other Middle Eastern markets like Israel and Palestine also work closely with local authorities to attract religious tourists through efficient visa policies and promoting lesser-known holy sites.

A newly emerging region gaining strong momentum in religious tourism is Asia Pacific. Countries like Indonesia, Thailand, Vietnam, and Cambodia are witnessing exponential growth driven by a surge in Buddhist pilgrims from East Asia as well as a rise in Western spiritual tourists exploring local traditions. Indonesia, home to historic pilgrimage sites on the islands of Bali and Java, has seen its religious tourism numbers doubling every few years. Local governments offer attractive visa policies and budget accommodation options to draw more regional visitors. Countries in the region have also worked on improving connectivity and developing niche spiritual tourism infrastructure at famous pagodas, temples, and ashrams. Religious institutions have unskilled local communities to better accommodate diverse foreign faiths and cultural practices. The thriving diversity and relative affordability make Southeast Asia an optimal choice for a new generation of experience seeking religious visitors.

• Market Report Scope

Religious Tourism Market Report Coverage

• Key Developments
• On April 2024, Uttarakhand launched its first-ever helicopter yatra for Adi Kailash, Om Parvat, giving a big boost to religious tourism.
• In March 2024, Prime Minister Narendra Modi virtually inaugurated nine projects under the Swadesh Darshan and Prasad Yojana to boost religious tourism.
• In November 2023, Kerala launched multi-language microsites to boost religious tourism.

*Definition: The religious tourism market involves travel to sacred places and religious sites for pilgrimage, missionary, or faith-based purposes. Key characteristics of this market include travel to sites significant to major world religions like Christianity, Islam, Hinduism, Buddhism, and others. Common destinations include Jerusalem, Rome, Mecca, Varanasi, Lourdes, and sites related to important religious figures or historical events.

• Market Segmentation
• Catholicism
• Confucianism
• Below 20 Years
• 20-30 Years
• 30-40 Years
• 40-50 Years
• Above 50 Years
• Rest of Latin America
• Rest of Europe
• South Korea
• Rest of Asia Pacific
• GCC Countries
• Rest of Middle East & Africa
• Holy Voyages
• Gil Travel Group
• Heritage Tours & Travels
• Best Way Tours & Safaris
• Regina Tours
• Travelway Europe
• 206 Tours Inc.
• Indus Travels Inc.
• Brightspark Travel Inc.
• Wendy Wu Tours
• ACE Cultural Tours
• Kesari Tours Pvt Ltd
• Go Thailand Tours
• N.S. Travel & Tours Co., Ltd
• Vansol Travel & Tours
• Catholic Travel Centre
• Amiel Tours LTD
• Israel Travel Providers, LLC
• Maranatha Tours

About Author

Sakshi Suryawanshi

Sakshi Suryawanshi is a Research Consultant with 6 years of extensive experience in market research and consulting. She is proficient in market estimation, competitive analysis, and patent analysis. Sakshi excels in identifying market trends and evaluating competitive landscapes to provide actionable insights that drive strategic decision-making. Her expertise helps businesses navigate complex market dynamics and achieve their objectives effectively.

Religious Tourism Market Report Snapshots

• Religious Tourism Companies
• Religious Tourism Market Regional Analysis
• Religious Tourism Market Challenges And Opportunities
• Religious Tourism Market News

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• Market Size and Trends
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Religious Tourism Market Analysis (2024-2031)

• Report Code: 6868,
• Published on: Apr 2024,
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Religious Tourism Market

Religious tourism market - global industry assessment & forecast, agriculture, segments covered, customization offered.

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The global Religious Tourism Market is valued at USD 15.5 Billion in 2023 and is projected to reach a value of USD 37.2 Billion by 2032 at a CAGR (Compound Annual Growth Rate) of 10.2% between 2024 and 2032.

Key Highlights of Religious Tourism Market

• Middle East & Africa led the Religious Tourism market in 2023, with 39.5% of the total market share
• Europe is anticipated to register the fastest growth rate during the forecast period
• In 2023, the Catholicism segment took the lead in the market, contributing 24.5% of considerable revenue share
• Based on Age Group, the 30-40 Years segment significantly contributed to the market’s expansion in 2023, over 35.4%of the market share

Religious Tourism Market Size, 2023 To 2032 (USD Billion)

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Religious Tourism Market: Regional Overview

• The Middle East & Africa Religious Tourism market exhibited significant dominance in 2023, with 39.5% of revenue share.
• Several countries in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region are prioritizing the restoration and conservation of historically and spiritually significant sites, aiming to attract a larger share of international tourists. Egypt's Ministry of Tourism and Antiquities, for instance, is embarking on ambitious restoration projects, such as the renovation of Al Wadi town in the Sinai Peninsula, which houses the ancient Deir El Wadi monastery dating back to the 6th century. These efforts are part of larger tourism initiatives like the Great Transfiguration Project, aimed at developing tourism infrastructure in the region, including enhanced transportation links and improved visitor facilities, to cater to both spiritual & recreational travelers.
• Saudi Arabia is strategically promoting the Umrah pilgrimage year-round to alleviate issues of overcrowding and enhance the overall visitor experience. With the implementation of the e-visa program since mid-2022, tourists obtaining visas can now participate in the Umrah pilgrimage, contributing to a significant increase in foreign Umrah arrivals. The Saudi government's proactive approach to attracting more diverse groups of pilgrims reflects a wider trend in the diversification of pilgrimage dates and destinations.
• The Jordan Ministry of Tourism and Antiquities is working to create a new tourist trail from Mount Nebo into the Jordan Valley, targeting sites of pilgrimage significance for Christians whilst also incorporating elements of adventure, culture & health. This initiative reflects a broader trend of destination authorities using their cultural and religious heritage to create immersive and diversified tourism experiences.

Saudi Arabia Hajj Religious Tourism Market Overview

• In September 2022, Saudi Arabia's Ministry of Hajj and Umrah unveiled Nusuk, an official digital platform aimed at simplifying and enhancing the pilgrimage planning process for visits to Makkah & Medina. The Kingdom's commitment to leverage cutting edge technology in order to optimize the Hajj experience is reflected in this initiative, which complements the vision 2030 Pilgrim Experience Program.
• Demonstrating its dedication to providing pilgrims with unparalleled experiences, Saudi Arabia's national telecom provider, stc, embarked on a monumental project in early 2023. Installation of 92 broadcast towers within the Holy Mosque in Makkah, coupled with seven communication towers covering a vast area of 1.5 million square meters, reflects a concerted effort to bolster digital infrastructure. This comprehensive network expansion not only facilitates greater connectivity for pilgrims but also supports the seamless delivery of essential services, ensuring that worshippers can navigate their spiritual journey with ease and convenience.

Religious Tourism Market: Type Overview

• In 2023, the Catholicism segment dominated the Global Religious Tourism market with 24.5% of revenue share.
• The Catholic Church's global influence remains significant, as evidenced by statistics released by the Vatican in February 2022. The data showed a steady increase in the number of Catholics worldwide, reaching 1.36 billion by 2020 and representing 17.7% of the global population. Notably, regions such as Asia and Africa experienced the most rapid growth, indicating shifting demographic trends within Catholicism.
• Despite the expanding Catholic population, there exists a notable disparity in the distribution of priests globally. Over 50% of priests are concentrated in the global North, while the majority of Catholics reside in other regions, particularly Africa. This incongruity has led to a reliance on priests from the global South to support Catholic communities in the North, reflecting complex migration patterns and the evolving dynamics of religious leadership.
• Traditional Catholic strongholds like Europe are facing challenges such as declining church attendance and a shortage of priests. Conversely, regions like Africa and Asia have seen a surge in the number of Catholics, albeit with fewer priests per capita. Despite these disparities, both continents have experienced an increase in the clergy, highlighting shifts in the geographical distribution of religious vocations.
• Travelers seek authentic and immersive experiences that connect them with religious traditions and practices. For example, pilgrimages to holy sites like Mecca for Muslims, Vatican City for Catholics, or the Ganges River for Hindus offer profound spiritual experiences.
• Sustainable and responsible tourism practices in the area of religion travel are increasingly being emphasised. Initiatives in the area of eco friendly accommodation, conservation efforts and local involvement are included. An example is the Green Hajj initiative in Saudi Arabia, which promotes environmentally sustainable practices for annual pilgrimages to Mecca.
• Travellers are increasingly interested in understanding the beliefs & practices of different religions. Cultural exchanges and dialogue, as well as the promotion of understanding and tolerance, are facilitated by intercultural visits and experiences. One instance is Jerusalem, where visitors can see sites such as the Western Wall, Church of Holy Sepulchre and Dome of the Rock that are important to Jews, Christians or Muslims.
• Technology is enhancing the Religious Tourism experience with the virtual tours, augmented reality apps, and interactive exhibits. Even for remote or unreached places, these instruments offer a more detailed view of religious history and importance. The Holy Land Experience in Orlando, Florida, utilizes multimedia attractions and immersive exhibits to recreate biblical narratives and historical settings.
• Some religious destinations are also becoming hubs for medical & wellness tourism, offering holistic treatments and therapies rooted in religious traditions. For instance, visitors to Rishikesh, India, can combine spiritual retreats with yoga, meditation, and Ayurvedic treatments along the banks of the Ganges River.

Religious Tourism Market - Government Initiatives

• Tourism Promotion Schemes and Infrastructure Development: Governments worldwide, through ministries of tourism, have launched various initiatives aimed at promoting tourism, particularly focusing on religious destinations. These initiatives include schemes such as 'Swadesh Darshan', 'National Mission on Pilgrimage Rejuvenation and Spiritual Heritage Augmentation Drive (PRASHAD)', and 'Assistance to Central Agencies for Tourism Infrastructure Development'. Under these schemes, significant efforts are made to develop tourism-related infrastructure, enhance connectivity, and promote sustainable tourism practices.
• Heritage Conservation and Development Projects: Governments invest in heritage conservation and development projects to preserve cultural and religious sites, thereby enhancing their appeal to tourists. For instance, projects like the 'Development of Ayodhya' under the Swadesh Darshan Scheme focus on infrastructure development, illumination, and landscaping of religious landmarks to attract visitors and promote Religious Tourism.
• European Union's Approach to Tourism Policy and Efforts: Within the European Union (EU), there's a significant focus on coordinating and backing tourism endeavors across member states. By implementing policies geared towards maintaining Europe's status as a premier global destination, advocating for sustainable tourism methods, and fostering collaboration among EU nations, the EU actively contributes to the expansion & advancement of the worldwide Religious Tourism sector.
• The Pilgrim Experience Program in Saudi Arabia: Commencing in 2019, Saudi Arabia's Pilgrim Experience Program seeks to offer a transformative journey for Hajj & Umrah pilgrims. The Program ensures a smooth and culturally stimulating pilgrimage through the use of digitalization, infrastructure improvements, Cultural Immersion Campaigns and strategic planning. The program's commitment to promoting Saudi Arabia as a contemporary cultural & religious center for pilgrims is reinforced by its collaboration with Private Enterprises and ambition of growth.
• Global Cooperation and Policy Endeavors: Entities such as the European Union and regional commissions play pivotal roles in advocating for sustainable tourism practices and fostering inter-country cooperation. Endeavors like the European agenda for tourism 2030 are geared towards boosting Europe's allure as a destination and maximizing the industry's contributions to economic growth and job opportunities.

Premium Insights

Governments are increasingly leveraging digital platforms and online learning initiatives to enhance tourist facilitation and promote professionalism among service providers. Programs such as the Pan-India Incredible India Tourist Facilitator (IITF) Certification Program aim to train and certify tourist facilitators/guides, thereby improving the overall quality of tourist experiences and generating local employment opportunities. Additionally, capacity-building schemes like the 'Capacity Building for Service Providers' (CBSP) Scheme focus on upgrading manpower to deliver superior service standards. In addition, the development of technology driven systems, such as the National Integrated Database of the Hospitality Sector (NIDHI), facilitates digitalization and promotes ease of doing business in the hospitality and tourism sector.

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Market Dynamics

• According to the World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC), prior to the pandemic, Travel & Tourism accounted for 10.4% of global GDP (US$ 10.3 trillion) and 10.5% of all jobs (334 million). In 2023, despite challenges, the sector contributed 9.1% to global GDP, with 27 million new jobs created, representing an increase of 23.2% from 2022.
• In 2022, India's Religious Tourism witnessed 1439 million tourists, generating revenue of 1.34 lakh crore. The sector is projected to generate revenue of 59 billion by 2032 and create 140 million temporary & permanent jobs by 2030. The inauguration of the Ram Mandir in Ayodhya is expected to attract an additional 50-100 million tourists annually.
• The European countries are well known for accommodating a wide range of Christian denominations and minorities, thus making them appealing tourist destinations in the field of religion tourism. The main source markets are Germany, the United Kingdom, France, Italy, Spain and the Netherlands with a high percentage of Catholic, Protestant or Orthodox Christian populations.
• With approximately 60% of its population identifying as Christian, Germany is a prime destination for Religious Tourism. The country's strong economy and high per capita spending on holidays position it as a lucrative market. Moreover, Germany's diversity of religion and tourist appeal is enhanced by the large number of Muslims.
• Saudi Arabia aims to host 30 million religious tourists annually by 2030, as part of its broader goal to attract 100 million domestic and international tourists. Investments in infrastructure projects such as airport expansions and metro systems support this vision, aiming to enhance the pilgrim experience and accommodate growing tourist numbers.
• In Mexico, the state of Jalisco ranks second behind Mexico City in terms of preferred destinations for religious tourists, attracting 11 million arrivals annually and generating $330 million in tourism earnings. Nationally, close to 40 million people participate in pilgrimages each year, contributing nearly MXN20 billion ($1.12 billion) to the economy.
• Brazil hosts over 200 religious events annually, including the Círio de Nazaré procession attended by 2.5 million people in 2022. Religious Tourism in Brazil drew an estimated $15 billion into the economy in 2019, showcasing the country's vibrant religious heritage and cultural significance.

Competitive Landscape

• A diverse range of players, from traditional tour operators to Internet platforms and specialized travel agencies in the field of religion tourism, have emerged in the global market.
• Customized pilgrimage packages with special religious affiliations, preferences and demographic characteristics are becoming increasingly common in the competition landscape. To accommodate diverse religious pilgrims, companies offer personalized travel plans, accommodation options and spiritually enriching experiences.
• Companies are increasingly integrating sustainability & sustainable tourism practices into their product offering, as they become more aware of the impact on the environment and society. The promotion of eco friendly pilgrimage routes, support for local communities and the protection of religious heritage sites are also part of this.

Recent Market Developments

Uttarakhand Launches First-Ever Helicopter Pilgrimage to Adi Kailash and Om Parvat

• In April 2024, Uttarakhand introduces the first-ever helicopter pilgrimage, enhancing Religious Tourism to Adi Kailash and Om Parvat. The Uttarakhand Tourism Development Board (UTDB) marked a significant milestone by launching India's pioneering helicopter pilgrimage to Adi Kailash and Om Parvat. This groundbreaking initiative overcomes seasonal and geographical constraints, allowing a wider range of devotees to visit these revered sites for an extended duration throughout the year.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi Inaugurates Projects to Promote Religious Tourism

• In March 2024, Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurates projects aimed at promoting Religious Tourism. Prime Minister Modi virtually inaugurated nine projects as part of the Swadesh Darshan and Prasad Yojana initiatives from Srinagar. These projects include developmental endeavors in Gwalior and Chitrakoot under Swadesh Darshan 2.0, and in Amarkantak and the Pitambara Peeth temple Datia under the Prasad Yojana, with a total investment of Rs 118 crore 72 lakhs.

The global Religious Tourism market can be categorized as Type, Age Group, and Region.

Frequently Asked Question

What is the global demand for religious tourism in terms of revenue.

The global Religious Tourism valued at USD 15.5 Billion in 2023 and is expected to reach USD 37.2 Billion in 2032 growing at a CAGR of 10.2%.

Which are the prominent players in the market?

The prominent players in the market are Gil Travel Group, Holy Voyages, Bestway Tours & Safaris, Heritage Tours and Travels, Travelway Europe, Regina Tours, Brightspark Travel Inc., ACE Cultural Tours Ltd., Wendy Wu Tours, SpainTOP, 206 Tours Inc., Kesari Tours Pvt. Ltd., Indus Travels Inc., Go Thailand Tours, N.S. Travel & Tours Co. Ltd., Catholic Travel Centre, Vansol Travel & Tours, Maranatha Tours.

At what CAGR is the market projected to grow within the forecast period?

The market is project to grow at a CAGR of 10.2% between 2024 and 2032.

What are the driving factors fueling the growth of the market.

Which region accounted for the largest share in the market.

Middle East & Africa was the leading regional segment of the Religious Tourism in 2023.

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