Destinations will need to strengthen their ability to anticipate and adapt to uncertainty in order to keep growing their tourist industry, according to a new report.
The Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) says the conflict in the Middle East has disrupted global travel flows and increased costs, which is weighing on traveller confidence.
The intergovernmental organisation has just released its OECD Tourism Trends and Policies 2026.
Aimed at promoting economic progress and world trade, the organisation has more than 100 member countries, including Australia.
International tourist arrivals in OECD countries rose by an estimated 3.4% in 2025 to reach a record 847 million, building on strong growth of 8.1% in 2024.
However, geopolitical tensions, shifting traveller behaviour and extreme weather-related events continue to shape the tourism landscape.
The report says concerns about safety, affordability and cancellations may influence travel decisions, leading travellers to favour more familiar and affordable destinations, shorter stays and lower-cost options.
As airlines, tour operators and other tourism providers adjust their programmes for 2027 and beyond, destinations will need to anticipate changing travel patterns and adapt their strategies to evolving geopolitical, economic and weather-related risks.
“Tourism continues to grow, generating business opportunities, jobs and tax revenues across the OECD,” said Mathias Cormann, OECD Secretary-General.
“Governments and businesses need to work together to sustain this growth and build resilience.
“This means applying the lessons of the pandemic and the conflict in the Middle East to strengthen crisis preparedness and managing tourism and visitor flows to ensure the sector delivers lasting benefits.”
