Greenland is on the brink of transformation. With a new airport in Nuuk now operational and others in progress, the country is unlocking opportunities to compete with other Nordic destinations. But how does Greenland’s tourism growth compare over the past decade? And with the USA emerging as a key market, what does the future hold for Arctic tourism? The answers lie in the numbers—and in Greenland’s bold plans for the years ahead.
Greenland, Faroe Islands, and Iceland: A Comparative Snapshot (2013–2023)
Over the past decade, guest nights in hotels have grown significantly across the Arctic, but at very different rates:
- Iceland: Guest nights soared from 2.05 million in 2013 to 5.26 million in 2023, marking a 156% increase. Iceland’s well-developed infrastructure and global branding have cemented its position as the North-Atlantic’s top tourism destination.
- Faroe Islands: Guest nights increased from 94,705 in 2013 to 221,575 in 2023, a remarkable 134% growth, reflecting growing global interest in its unique, remote landscapes.
- Greenland: Greenland saw an increase from 214,012 in 2013 to 347,547 in 2023, representing a 62% growth. This is less than half the growth of Iceland and the Faroe Islands and highlights untapped potential even if the numbers are higher than in the Faroe Islands.
🌍 Explore more Nordic tourism statistics here: Nordic Statistics Database 📊
Spotlight on Domestic and Danish Travellers in Greenland
Domestic travellers continue to dominate Greenland’s tourism landscape. In 2023, Greenlanders accounted for 178,887 guest nights, representing 54.4% of all guest nights. This is partly reflection of the weak infrastructure and long internal distances, and partly the fact the many Greenlanders live in Danmark, where travel often relates to work, education, family visits, or cultural events.
Danish visitors also make up a significant share, with 98,943 guest nights, accounting for 30.1% of the total. Many Danish travellers visit Greenland as part of:
- Government administration and professional assignments,
- Cultural exchanges, and
- Family ties, reflecting the deep historical connection between de to nations
Combined, Greenlandic and Danish travellers contribute over 84.5% of total guest nights, underscoring the importance of these two groups to the country’s tourism economy and perhaps signalling that much of the guest nights are not actual “tourists” but people with ties to the country travelling for work or family relations.
Spotlight on International Trends
Although domestic and Danish travellers dominate, international visitors are showing steady growth:
- The USA accounted for 10,139 guest nights in 2023, a 49% increase from 2022, reflecting growing interest in Greenland as a remote destination. This rise aligns with renewed U.S. focus on Arctic geopolitics, highlighted by Donald Trump’s 2019 proposal to purchase Greenland and the opening of a U.S. consulate in Nuuk in 2020. Greenland’s strategic importance in defense and Arctic cooperation continues to drive both political and tourism engagement.
- Germans are also starting to show up, contributing to 10,153 guest nights.
In comparison:
- Iceland leads the Arctic in international tourism, with the USA, Germany, and other European markets making up a substantial share.
- The Faroe Islands still rely on Danish visitors but are seeing an increase in international travellers.
With improved flight connections via Nuuk and potential new hubs in Ilulissat and Qaqortoq, Greenland is poised to further attract international audiences.
Tourism Act 2025: A Foundation for Sustainable Growth
The Tourism Act, which took effect on January 1, 2025, marks a pivotal step in Greenland’s tourism journey. This legislation is designed to ensure that Greenland’s natural resources and cultural heritage are protected while fostering controlled growth in the tourism sector.
Key elements of the Tourism Act include:
- Regulation of tourism activities: Introducing standards to minimize environmental impact and ensure responsible tourism practices.
- Support for local communities: Encouraging tourism models that create economic opportunities for Greenlanders without compromising traditional ways of life.
- Infrastructure development: Aligning future projects, such as airports, lodging, and transportation, with sustainability principles.
By implementing this Act, Greenland is positioning itself as a leader in eco-conscious Arctic tourism, balancing the growing interest from international visitors with the preservation of its unique landscapes and culture.
The Road Ahead: From Hidden Gem to Global Destination
Greenland is at a pivotal moment in its tourism journey. By learning from Iceland’s explosive growth, Greenland can carve out its own unique path. Key opportunities include:
- Expanding international reach: Utilizing the new airports in Nuuk and upcoming projects in Ilulissat and Qaqortoq to target key markets like the USA, Germany, and the UK.
- Leveraging local strengths: Showcasing Greenland’s unique culture, history, and natural beauty to attract eco-conscious travellers.
- Enhancing infrastructure: Developing accommodations, transportation, and experiences to meet growing demand while maintaining sustainability.
Conclusion
With over 84.5% of guest nights driven by Greenlandic and Danish travellers, the country’s tourism economy is deeply rooted in its own people and its ties to Denmark. However, with the Tourism Act 2025 providing a solid framework for sustainable growth, and new infrastructure opening up the country to international visitors, Greenland is ready to step onto the global tourism stage. The next few years could transform Greenland from a hidden gem into a must-visit destination.
Looking Ahead
Tomorrow, we turn our attention to Greenland’s people and their quality of life through the lens of the SDG indicators. With a focus on social sustainability, we’ll explore how Greenland balances the well-being of its communities with its commitment to global goals, all while preserving its cultural identity and adapting to modern challenges. Don’t miss this deeper look into the lives shaping Greenland’s future.
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