The World Economic Forum's 2026 Travel & Tourism Development Index has been released, naming Japan as the top country for travel and tourism overall. The index evaluates factors and policies that enable sustainable and resilient development in the sector, including air transport structure, price competitiveness, and safety and security.
Europe dominates the top 10 list, with six countries from the region making the cut. Spain ranks third, followed by France in fourth, Germany in sixth, the United Kingdom in seventh, Switzerland in ninth, and Italy in tenth place.
Albania was recognized as the fastest improver in the index, according to the World Economic Forum. The index also assesses elements such as hotel prices, visa requirements, public transport efficiency, UNESCO World Heritage Sites, and geographic distribution of tourism.
Ramya Krishnaswamy, head of experience economy and cities at the World Economic Forum, noted that enabling conditions for travel and tourism are at their strongest since the pandemic, with 92% of economies improving since 2024. She emphasized that the next chapter is about creating greater value through investment in people, infrastructure, and public-private collaboration.
