New Delhi: Global international tourist arrivals reached 307 million in the first quarter of 2026, up by about 6 million compared to the same period last year, according to UN Tourism data.
Overall growth stood at 2.5% in January and February. However, the pace slowed sharply in March to just 0.4%, as the Middle East conflict began affecting travel patterns, UN Tourism said in a press release.
UN Tourism now expects the conflict to cut international arrival growth by 1 to 2 percentage points below its earlier forecast of 3% to 4% for the full year. The agency cited flight disruptions, rising oil prices, jet fuel shortages, and weakened traveller confidence as key factors. It also warned that higher airfares could push demand toward closer destinations.
UN Tourism Secretary-General Shaikha Al Nuwais said the conflict was disrupting travel well beyond the Middle East, driving up inflation in transport and accommodation. She said tourism had nonetheless shown resilience, and stressed its role in supporting economies and communities.
Europe recorded over 130 million arrivals in Q1, up 4%. Central Eastern Europe led with 6% growth. Southern Mediterranean and Northern Europe each grew 4%. Africa grew 4%, with North Africa posting an 18% surge in March alone.
Asia and the Pacific grew 3%, with Oceania up 9% and North-East Asia up 5%. South Asia fell 27% due to disruptions at Middle Eastern air hubs. The region overall remained 11% below pre-pandemic levels. The Americas grew 2%, with Central America surging 18% while South America dipped 1%.
The Middle East saw arrivals fall 14%. Several Gulf destinations recorded sharp declines, though Egypt bucked the trend with 16% growth.
Among the top-performing destinations, Paraguay led with 46% growth, followed by New Zealand at 45% and El Salvador at 43%.
