Global tourism growth slows as Middle East conflict, high costs bite: UN
International tourism recorded modest growth of 0.4 per cent in the first half of 2026, with around 690 million tourists travelling abroad, according to UN Tourism. Africa and Europe posted stronger growth, while the Middle East saw…
4 per cent in the first half of 2026, with around 690 million tourists travelling abroad, according to UN Tourism. Africa and Europe posted stronger growth, while the Middle East saw arrivals fall 22 per cent . UN Tourism has lowered its full-year 2026 growth forecast to 1 per cent -2 per cent from its earlier projection of 3 per cent -4 per cent .
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