Greenland has seen a dramatic increase in the number of international tourists, fueled by geopolitical interest from the US as well as significant upgrades to its infrastructure.
According to Statistics Greenland, the opening of the new airport at Nuuk’s capital in November 2024 coincided with an increase by 14% in international passengers to the island in January.
The increased global interest in rare earths resources found in the Arctic and the new direct flights are also accelerating the transition of the island from being a fishing dependent economy into a more diversified tourism- and mining-driven growth model.
Nuuk airport opens direct US route
Nuuk is Greenland’s main gateway. The new airport in Nuuk has reduced travel time and eliminated the need to stopovers at Copenhagen or Kangerlussuaq.
United Airlines will begin flying direct from New York City to Nuuk by June 2025. This route, which was previously an indirect one that required transiting via the old US military base, is expected to replace the previous indirect flight.
Already, the changes have had an impact. Visit Greenland reports that local tour operators reported higher bookings for the first three months after the Nuuk Airport launch.
More expansions are planned. Ilulissat will be the leading Greenland tourist destination in 2026.
A new airport in Qaqortoq, in the south of the island, is under construction.
Greenland gets a global spotlight thanks to the US
Greenland’s geopolitical prominence increased sharply following US President Donald Trump’s interest in the island.
Donald Trump Jr.’s arrival at Nuuk Airport in 2025 was covered by the media.
The president reiterated that he wanted to control Greenland, and cited its potential for rare earth minerals as a key strategic interest.
The renewed attention has led to commercial success. Greenland Cruises reports higher than average bookings this season.
Financial institutions urge local operators to expand capacity as they prepare for an upcoming boom in Arctic Tourism.
Mining and tourism are viewed as key growth drivers
Greenland aims to reduce the economic dependency on fishing which accounts for 95% its current exports.
Tourism and mining are expected to be the main drivers of future economic growth.
The island is home to ice fjords and glaciers that are listed by UNESCO, as well as marine life like whales. These attractions attract international tourists.
The country’s natural beauty is accompanied by a growing pride in Inuit culture and a renewed interest.
Greenland is a destination in the Arctic that has both ecological and cultural appeal.
Greenland Airports is leading the expansion of tourism infrastructure. CEO Jens Lauridsen stated that Greenland Airports expects a “significant increase” in tourists this summer.
Some tour operators are still cautious and prefer to wait for 2025 before making large investments.
Arctic Strategy shaped by EU and Singapore Models
Greenland’s economic long-term strategy is also inspired by the regulatory frameworks of Singapore and the European Union.
Along with the physical tourism sector and resources, the island wants to create a digital assets economy.
The whole-government approach to the economic development of the Arctic reflects wider efforts to ensure sustainable growth in the Arctic while managing increasing international attention.
Greenland is at the crossroads of global competition and environmental protection because it has large reserves of rare earth, which are vital to high-tech manufacturing.
Greenland is projected to continue attracting interest as the summer of 2025 approaches. This includes governments, tourists, and investors.
The post Greenland Tourism surges by 14%: Here’s Why may be updated as new information becomes available
