Travel and Tourism Index Scores Have Improved
The 10th edition of the global index reveals widespread growth in tourism infrastructure and connectivity.
Updated on Sept. 25, 2026 in Travel — General
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The World Economic Forum published the 10th edition of its Travel & Tourism Development Index, showing that 101 of 110 ranked economies improved their scores between 2024 and 2026. Global tourism performance rose by an average of 2.1% during this period.
Why it matters
The index highlights significant global progress in cultural resources, infrastructure, and air connectivity. These advancements are critical for understanding how nations are rebuilding and expanding their tourism sectors following broader industry shifts.
The index reflects growth across cultural resources, infrastructure, and air connectivity. However, travel affordability decreased in three out of four economies between 2024 and 2026.
The players
World Economic Forum
This international non-governmental organization is responsible for publishing the Travel & Tourism Development Index.
Zurich Insurance Group
This multinational financial services company collaborated with the index authors to develop the report.
The details
Japan holds the top spot on the 2026 index, followed by the United States, Spain, Australia, and France. Albania achieved the largest overall index score gain, while Qatar emerged as the fourth fastest-improving economy globally.
Timeline
The 2019 baseline was used for comparative growth metrics.
Scores were measured across the 2024-2026 period.
The index was launched on September 25, 2026, at Beyond Tourism Day.
Travel Outlook
This index provides a benchmark for how tourism markets have evolved since the 2019 baseline. It demonstrates that while infrastructure and connectivity have improved, the rising cost of travel poses a new challenge to global tourism cycles.
Travelers should note that while air connectivity and infrastructure have improved, the cost of travel has risen in most nations. Budgeting accordingly is essential given the trend of declining affordability in three out of four economies.
The takeaway
The latest index confirms a robust recovery in tourism infrastructure and connectivity worldwide. However, travelers should be aware that these gains in accessibility are often coupled with higher costs that affect overall travel affordability.
Further reading
For more on the current state of the industry, see the latest updates in Travel — General.
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Is the growth of tourism in your area generally improving or harming your local community?
