International tourism growth slows in 2026

International tourism growth has nearly stalled in the first half of 2026, with a year-on-year increase of just 0.4% in international arrivals, reaching around 690 million travelers. This is according to the latest report from UN Tourism, which has revised its annual growth forecast downward to between 1% and 2%.

Arrivals show uneven quarterly performance

While the world recorded about three million more international tourist arrivals between January and June 2026 compared to the same period in 2025, the growth has been uneven. Arrivals increased by 2% in the first quarter but dropped by 1% in the second, with April and June both showing declines of 3%.

Regional impacts vary widely

The impact of the Middle East conflict has been most severe in that region, where international arrivals dropped by 22% during the first half of 2026. In contrast, Africa saw the strongest growth at 4%, followed by Europe at 3%. The Asia-Pacific region remains 11% below its 2019 levels, with South and Southeast Asia both recording declines.

Europe faces travel challenges

Europe also experienced a slowdown, with a 6% decline in international arrivals in Western Europe in June. This was partly due to a heatwave and ongoing air disruptions, which affected travel to Southeast Asia. Rising travel costs and weaker demand from Asian markets have further contributed to the decline.

Air travel improves slightly

Air travel disruptions have eased somewhat in May and June following the announcement of a ceasefire. Some routes have reopened, improving conditions slightly, though traveler confidence has not fully returned. UN Tourism now expects a modest growth of 1% to 2% for 2026, down from a previous forecast of 3% to 4%.

Travelers favor local and nearby destinations

In response to ongoing uncertainties and rising costs, UN Tourism predicts that travelers will continue to prefer nearby destinations or domestic travel. This strategy aims to reduce expenses and minimize exposure to geopolitical and economic risks.