International tourism growth slowed significantly during the first half of 2026, according to the latest World Tourism Barometer from the United Nations World Tourism Organization (UNWTO). The report recorded 690 million international tourist arrivals during the period, which represents only 3 million more than the same period in 2025. This growth follows a 2% increase in the first quarter but a 1% decline in the second quarter, marking a reversal in the trend. The slowdown was confirmed in June, with a global decrease of 3% in international arrivals, and April had already recorded a similar decline of 3%. UNWTO highlighted the effect of the Easter holiday calendar, which started in March 2026, as well as the impact of the conflict in the Middle East. Regional variations were noted, with Europe showing a 3% increase, the Americas a 2% increase, and Africa a 4% increase for the first half of the year. However, Western Europe experienced a significant 6% decrease in international arrivals in June, attributed to episodes of extreme heat in several destinations. In Asia, Northeast Asia recorded a 3% growth, while South Asia declined by 5% and Southeast Asia by 1%. The Asia-Pacific region still struggles to recover its 2019 level, with only a 1% increase in international arrivals during the first half of the year. In June, the decline in Southeast Asia reached 5%, linked to weaker demand in some Asian markets and disruptions in air connections through the Middle East. The Middle East experienced a 22% decline in international arrivals during the first half of 2026 due to the conflict that began in March. The war directly affected tourism flows and international air transport, with some connections disrupted or suspended. However, the air situation gradually improved in May and June, with the reopening of some connections after the announcement of a ceasefire. Beyond geopolitical factors, the cost of travel remains a determining factor for demand. High oil prices have fueled transportation costs, while inflationary pressures continue to weigh on the budget allocated to vacations. In response to the slowdown, UNWTO has revised its 2026 forecasts downward, now expecting a growth of 1 to 2% in international arrivals, compared to a previous estimate of 3 to 4% published at the beginning of the year. The rest of the year will depend on the evolution of the conflict in the Middle East, oil prices, and inflation.