International tourist arrivals across OECD (Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development) countries reached a historic high of 847 million in 2025, marking a 3.4 per cent increase over the previous year, according to the OECD Tourism Trends and Policies 2026 report. This growth builds on a robust 8.1 per cent rise recorded in 2024, underscoring the continued recovery and expansion of global tourism.
Despite the positive trajectory, the OECD cautioned that geopolitical tensions, evolving traveller behaviour, and extreme weather events continue to shape the global tourism landscape, prompting destinations to enhance their resilience and adaptability.
Geopolitical Challenges Impact Travel Confidence
The report highlights that ongoing conflict in the Middle East has disrupted global travel flows and driven up operational costs, impacting traveller confidence. Destinations in the region, along with those dependent on Gulf air connectivity, are among the most affected. The OECD noted that these challenges are expected to persist in the near term.
“Tourism continues to grow, generating business opportunities, jobs, and tax revenues across the OECD,” said Mathias Cormann, Secretary-General, OECD. “Governments and businesses need to work together to sustain this growth and build resilience. This includes applying lessons from the pandemic and recent geopolitical developments to strengthen crisis preparedness and better manage tourism flows.”
Safety concerns, affordability issues, and the risk of travel disruptions are increasingly influencing traveller decisions. As a result, tourists are showing a preference for familiar, cost-effective destinations, opting for shorter stays and budget-friendly travel options.
Industry Adapts to Evolving Travel Patterns
As airlines, tour operators, and tourism stakeholders plan for 2027 and beyond, the OECD emphasised the need for destinations to anticipate shifting travel patterns and adapt strategies in response to geopolitical, economic, and climate-related risks.
Mixed Outlook Across OECD Markets
According to a recent OECD survey, one-third of member countries expect tourism performance to surpass 2025 levels by the end of the current year, with several markets poised to set new records. However, performance remains uneven across regions.
Finland, Japan, Korea, and Norway emerged as top performers in 2025, each recording double-digit growth in inbound tourist arrivals and achieving record levels. This growth builds on strong recovery momentum in 2024, particularly in Japan and Korea, supported by improved connectivity and favourable currency conditions such as a weaker yen.
In contrast, international arrivals declined in Canada, Germany, Ireland, and the United States in 2025, with these markets yet to fully recover to pre-pandemic levels.
The OECD report underscores that while global tourism continues its upward trajectory, sustained growth will depend on stronger collaboration, proactive policy measures, and the ability of destinations to navigate an increasingly uncertain environment.