The UAE, China and Vietnam are three nations likely to become top tourism destinations in the next five years, according to the Country Brand Index, compiled by brand consultancy FutureBrand.
The study said the United States had unseated Australia, which held the top spot for the past three years. Australia came in third this year with Canada rising to second place.
US President Barack Obama's starpower has made the United States the place most people want to visit and do business with, according to the annual survey that ranks nations like retail brands.
New Zealand and France rounded up the top five country brands in this year's index that included 102 countries.
"The Obama effect has seen the US earn the coveted top spot for the first time in the fifth annual index," FutureBrand said.
"The revitalisation of Brand USA, and other factors, have resulted in the effect on Australia's ranking. It highlights the importance of keeping a country brand fresh, relevant and engaging in a highly competitive international marketplace," said Tim Riches, CEO FutureBrand Singapore.
The index is based on a survey of about 3,000 business and leisure travellers from nine countries.
In addition to branding countries, it identifies global trends in travel and tourism, which the statement said was the world's fastest growing economic sector.
The US was seen as an ideal place for business, a the top place for families, shopping and quality products, as well as a country people wanted to visit whether for the first time or again.
The survey showed that the US was the most admired country, thanks to Obama's global popularity.
South Africa, India and Croatia also made it to the list. – Emirates Business 24|7
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