Global tourism expected to reach record levels in 2026 despite crises

Global tourism is expected to reach record levels in 2026 despite conflicts in Iran and Ukraine, rising fuel prices and pressure on household purchasing power. The WTM Global Travel Report 2026 forecasts 23.9 billion overnight stays and a 9% rise in traveler spending to $7.8 trillion. Sean Morgan of Oxford Economics says the share of household budgets allocated to travel is holding up despite the cost of living. Rising disposable incomes in India and China could bring an additional 24 million households into the international tourism market over the next six years, while regional travel is up 3% this year.