New York: As per an estimate of World Tourism Organization, the number of international tourist arrivals rose by 6 percent last year to 1.4 billion. The estimate published Monday says that the increase was driven by travel to southern Europe, the Middle East and Africa, said the Madrid-based UN body, citing economic growth and cheaper air travel as key factors.

In a statement WTO secretary-general, Zurab Pololikashvili said, "The growth of tourism in recent years confirms that the sector is today one of the most powerful drivers of economic growth and development,"

Total arrivals to Europe were 713 million but  WTO noted that arrivals in northern Europe were flat last year, citing uncertainty over Britain’s impending exit from the European Union.

Arrivals to the Americas grew by a modest three percent -- four for North America -- Europe, Africa and Asia-Pacific performed better, with increases of six, seven and six percent respectively. In year 2010, the WTO had forecast that international tourist arrivals would only hit the 1.4 billion mark in 2020  but it now said that factors like stronger economic growth, more affordable air travel and an easier visa regime around the world had helped to increase the market.