Travel & Tourism Development Index 2026

In collaboration with the World Economic Forum

Cover: WEF Travel and Tourism Development Index 2026

Understanding what drives tourism success

Drawing on nearly two decades of data, the Travel & Tourism Development Index (TTDI) 2026 measures the conditions that enable sustainable and resilient tourism development across 110 economies.

The TTDI helps governments, tourism businesses and investors see where tourism systems are strong, where gaps remain and where action or investment is needed. From infrastructure and connectivity to natural and cultural assets, it provides a comprehensive picture of what enables destinations to grow and compete over the long term.

Key insights

Main findings of 2026 TTDI show…

92%

of economies improved their TTDI score.

7 of the 10

fastest-improving economies are in Asia-Pacific.

75%

of economies became less price competitive.

Tourism development conditions are at their strongest since the pandemic.

Between 2024 and 2026, 92% of the 110 ranked economies improved their TTDI score, while average scores rose by 2%, the fastest pace of improvement since 2019.
Advanced economies continue to set the pace

Advanced economies account for nine of the top 10 positions, with China the sole exception. Europe holds six places in the top 10, helping make Europe and Eurasia the highest-performing region overall.
Asia-Pacific and emerging tourism economies are gaining ground

The largest emerging tourism economies improved their TTDI scores more than twice as fast as the Top 20 since 2019. Asia-Pacific accounts for seven of the 10 fastest-improving economies, while Albania was the most improved overall.
Affordability, investment and workforce challenges are the biggest constraints

Travel-related prices have risen faster than inflation, while investment has struggled to keep pace with demand. Workforce shortages and skills gaps threaten future growth and service quality.
Tourism growth is not automatically translating into broader benefits

While travel demand and visitor spending continue to grow, tourism’s economic and social benefits weakened between 2024 and 2026, while pressures linked to crowding and concentrated visitor demand remain above pre-pandemic levels.
Resilience is becoming a competitive advantage

Climate, economic and geopolitical risks are increasing the importance of resilience. Successful destinations will be defined not just by their tourism assets, but by their ability to adapt and thrive during periods of uncertainty.