International tourism grows in first quarter despite mounting disruption

International tourist arrivals increased 2 percent in the first quarter of 2026, reaching about 307 million, according to UN Tourism.

That was roughly six million more arrivals than a year earlier. Europe and Africa each recorded 4 percent growth, while Asia and the Pacific grew 3 percent and the Americas 2 percent. Arrivals in the Middle East fell 14 percent amid conflict-related disruption.

The organization warned that flight interruptions, higher fuel costs and uncertainty could weaken subsequent demand. The uneven results show a sector still expanding overall but facing rising pressure on travel costs and connectivity, with some travellers potentially choosing destinations closer to home.