Global Tourism Spending on Course for US$1.8 Trillion in 2026 as Arrivals Near Record 1.57 Billion

The WTM Global Travel Report 2026, prepared by Tourism Economics — an Oxford Economics company — was presented at World Travel Market London on November 3 and projects international visitor spending will reach US$1.8 trillion in 2026, a six per cent increase on 2025. International arrivals are expected to reach 1.57 billion, representing roughly two per cent growth. When domestic travel is included, combined visitor spending is forecast at US$7.8 trillion, with 24.2 billion visitor nights worldwide. Regional performance is sharply uneven: Europe is set for five per cent growth in arrivals, Africa and Oceania both eight per cent, while the Middle East faces a steep 40 per cent decline attributed to conflict involving Iran, aviation disruptions and reduced travel confidence. Short-haul international travel grew three per cent while long-distance travel fell three per cent, suggesting travellers are prioritising nearer destinations amid rising costs. Around one in six travellers now cites affordability as a primary factor in destination choice, up from around one in eleven in 2025, while 56 per cent seek a mix of budget options with selective premium experiences. Tourism Economics projects 2027 arrivals growth to accelerate to approximately eight per cent, with long-haul travel potentially rising eleven per cent, though the report notes the outlook depends on factors including geopolitical stability, aviation capacity and household spending power.