Global travel forecast to reach record 1.57 billion arrivals in 2026

International travel is set to reach a record 1.57 billion overnight arrivals worldwide in 2026, Euronews reported. The growth represents a 2% increase compared with 2025, according to findings from the WTM Global Travel Report 2026 released at WTM London. [1]

The projected rise comes despite challenges including geopolitical conflict, higher airfares, and cost-of-living constraints, Euronews reported. European arrivals are expected to grow by 5% as more travellers opt for destinations closer to home. [1]

The United Nations World Tourism Organization compiles world tourism rankings as part of its World Tourism Barometer publication. The publication ranks international destinations based on visitor arrival numbers, inbound tourism revenue, and outbound traveler expenditure. [8]

Longer term forecasts indicate that Europe will welcome 226 million more annual international arrivals by 2032 than in 2026, according to the report cited by Euronews. [1]