International tourist arrivals increased just 0.4% year-on-year in the first half of 2026, with about 690 million people traveling abroad, only around 3 million more than during the same period last year, according to the latest World Tourism Barometer.
International tourist arrivals grew 2% year-on-year in the first quarter of 2026 before declining 1% in the second quarter. The downturn deepened in June, when arrivals fell 3% from a year earlier.
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A couple take selfies in a crowded Las Ramblas in Barcelona, Spain, May 24, 2023. Photo by Reuters |
Africa recorded the strongest growth, with international arrivals up 4% in the first six months.
Europe followed with 3%, while the Americas posted 2% growth. Arrivals in Asia and the Pacific increased 1% but remained 11% below 2019 levels.
The Middle East was the hardest-hit region, recording a 22% decline in international arrivals as conflict disrupted tourism, the report said.
UN Tourism Secretary-General Shaikha Al Nuwais said the figures showed that tourism was continuing to grow but remained vulnerable to external shocks, with the conflict affecting destinations beyond the region, Xinhua News Agency reported.
The agency said its revised forecast would depend on how long the conflict lasts and its effects on oil prices and inflation.
Rising costs and uncertainty are also expected to make value for money a greater priority for travelers. The report said tourists may increasingly opt for destinations closer to home or choose domestic travel.
Several tourism-dependent countries have cut their forecasts for international tourist arrivals this year.
Thailand has cut its 2026 target for foreign tourist arrivals to 33 million, with the sector expected to generate around 2.65 trillion baht (US$79.5 billion) in total tourism revenue, amid geopolitical and economic pressures.