An estimated 1.52 billion international tourists were recorded globally in 2025, almost 60 million more than in 2024— and while the UN expects this momentum to continue into 2026, concerns are mounting over the impact of the current geopolitical climate.
The first World Tourism Barometer of the year shows international travel as growing by some 4%, which reflects a return to pre-pandemic growth trends, with the report noting that during 2009-2019 the average annual increase was 5%. As for what’s behind this growth, the barometer cites strong demand, increased air connectivity, robust performance from large source markets and the ongoing recovery of destinations in Asia and the Pacific. Looking at regions, Africa has the highest growth at 8%, followed by Asia and the Pacific at 6%, Europe at 4%, the Middle East at 3% and Americas at 1%.
On to 2026, the UN expects growth at a slower pace acknowledging current geopolitical tensions and conflicts, as well as costs. It states that international tourism is expected to grow 3% to 4% in 2026 compared to 2025.
Uncertainty derived from geopolitical risks and ongoing conflicts, trade tensions and extreme weather events could weigh on traveller confidence, states the report, which adds that while headline inflation has receded globally in 2025, inflation in tourism-related services remains elevated by historical standards. See the report HERE.
