Global Travel Forecast to Reach Record 1.57 Billion Arrivals in 2026

Global international overnight arrivals are projected to reach a record 1.57 billion in 2026, according to the WTM Global Travel Report 2026 released by Tourism Economics at the World Travel Market in London. European destinations are forecast to record a 5% increase in international visitor arrivals, outstripping global growth as holidaymakers shift toward destinations closer to home.

Despite economic pressures and elevated airfares, global travel spending is expected to expand. Total in-destination expenditures across domestic and international travel are projected to increase by 9% to $7.8 trillion (€6.97 trillion), with total visitor nights reaching 23.9 billion. Overall international arrivals worldwide are set to grow by 2% compared with 2025, driven largely by intra-regional journeys, which are expected to rise by 3%.

In contrast, inter-regional long-haul journeys are forecast to decline by 3% in 2026. High oil prices, travel inflation, reduced flight capacity through Gulf aviation hubs, and heightened safety concerns have dampened long-distance travel. The Middle East is anticipated to experience the steepest reduction, with international arrivals projected to fall by 40% during the year.

Europe remains the primary destination for international leisure visits, with overnight stays projected to grow by 4% in 2026. Total leisure spending within the region is forecast to reach $2.05 trillion (€1.83 trillion), supported by an 11% increase in international leisure spending and an 8% rise in domestic expenditure. Foreign visitors contribute roughly one-third of Europe’s total leisure revenue, representing the highest share among major regional markets.

Dave Goodger, Managing Director EMEA at Tourism Economics, noted in the report that leisure trips remain a key priority in consumer budgets even as travellers adapt their choices to cost pressures and ongoing disruptions. The report forecasts an acceleration in 2027, with global arrivals expected to rise by 8% as inter-regional travel rebounds by 11% and Middle East arrivals recover by 43%. By 2032, annual international arrivals in Europe are projected to increase by 226 million, reaching an average yearly growth rate of 4%.

Written by Thomas Nussbaumer thomas.nussbaumer@alpineweekly.com