Global tourism enters new growth phase as 92% economies improve

Dhaka: Global tourism has entered a new phase of expansion, with international travel and visitor spending surpassing pre-pandemic levels, while destinations face growing pressure to manage the risks that come with stronger demand.

The World Economic Forum’s latest Travel & Tourism Development Index (TTDI) found that 92% of economies recorded higher scores between the 2024 and 2026 editions, indicating broad improvements in tourism infrastructure, services and operating conditions.

However, the report, prepared with Zurich Insurance Group, warns that recovery has given way to a more complicated growth environment. Rising travel costs, insufficient investment and mounting sustainability concerns are challenging destinations as visitor numbers increase.

Overcrowding, environmental pressures and unequal distribution of tourism-related economic gains are among the issues identified as risks to long-term development.

The report argues that destinations now need to prioritize “managed growth” rather than simply pursuing higher visitor numbers. Better air connectivity, infrastructure, tourism services and destination assets will need to be supported by stronger resilience measures.

Among its recommendations, the report calls for greater diversification, improved infrastructure and workforce development. It also urges destinations to focus on value instead of competing primarily on price, maintain community support for tourism and ensure operational continuity during disruptions.

For tourism businesses, the findings point to a market where resilience, affordability and sustainable growth are becoming as important as demand itself.