The downturn follows a recent warning from the International Monetary Fund that Seychelles’ economy is facing growing risks from softer tourism demand and ongoing geopolitical uncertainties, according to Business Insider Africa.
The IMF noted that tensions in the Middle East present a significant threat to Seychelles, as about 60% of visitors reach the island nation via connecting flights through Doha, Dubai, or Abu Dhabi.
Europe remained Seychelles’s largest source of tourists in the first five months, bringing 106,142 visitors and accounting for 72.8% of total arrivals, according to Travel and Tour World.
Asia ranked second with 21,901 visitors, making up 15% of the total, while Africa contributed 10,548 travelers, or 7.2%.
Tourism remains the cornerstone of Seychelles’ economy, driving economic growth, creating jobs, generating foreign currency earnings and contributing significantly to government revenue.
Seychelles set a new tourism record in 2025, receiving 398,841 visitors, a 13.1% increase from the previous year.
