Global Travel & Tourism is projected to contribute $12 trillion to the world economy in 2026, growing 1.5 times faster than the wider global economy over the next decade, according to new WTTC research. Europe and Spain are expected to lead regional tourism growth, investment, international visitor spending, and job creation.
MADRID, Spain — Global Travel & Tourism is expected to continue outperforming the wider global economy in 2026, with the sector forecast to contribute $12 trillion to global GDP and support 376 million jobs worldwide, according to new Economic Impact Research (EIR) released by the World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC), sponsored by Chase Travel as Lead Research Partner.
The latest research projects the global Travel & Tourism sector will grow by 3.2% in 2026, exceeding broader global economic growth, which is forecast at 2.4%. The sector is expected to account for 9.9% of global GDP while supporting one in every nine jobs worldwide.
Looking ahead, WTTC forecasts the sector will generate nearly 89 million new jobs globally over the next decade, representing around one-third of all new jobs expected across the broader economy. During the same period, Travel & Tourism GDP is projected to grow at an annual average rate of 3.6% — approximately 1.5 times faster than the wider global economy, forecast to expand at 2.4%.
WTTC emphasized the importance of sustained investment in smart infrastructure, digital innovation, sustainable destination management, workforce development, and cross-border connectivity to maintain the industry’s growth momentum. The organization also highlighted the increasing role of artificial intelligence and emerging technologies in enhancing traveler experiences, operational efficiency, and workforce development across the sector.
Europe’s Tourism Economy Continues to Strengthen
Across Europe, Travel & Tourism is forecast to significantly outperform the wider regional economy in 2026, further cementing its position as one of the continent’s strongest contributors to growth, employment, and investment.
While Europe’s wider economy is expected to grow by just 1% amid continued inflationary pressures and economic uncertainty, the region’s Travel & Tourism GDP is forecast to increase by 3.6% — nearly four times faster.
WTTC’s research indicates that the sector continues to demonstrate resilience despite rising household costs and ongoing value-conscious consumer behavior.
International visitor spending across Europe is projected to rise by 7.1% in 2026, well above the global average growth forecast of 3.7%, as travelers increasingly favor destinations closer to home due to geopolitical instability and disruptions in other regions.
Southern European destinations continue to drive the region’s tourism momentum, with Spain emerging as one of Europe’s strongest-performing tourism economies. WTTC forecasts Spain’s Travel & Tourism sector will grow by 3.7% in 2026, matching Türkiye and outperforming the wider European economy. Italy is expected to lead Europe’s major tourism markets with projected growth of 3.8%.
International visitor spending in Spain is also forecast to increase by 5.3% this year, reinforcing the continued appeal and competitiveness of Mediterranean destinations.
In 2025, Spain welcomed 96.8 million international visitor arrivals — the second-highest total in Europe after France. However, Spain generated €115.1 billion (US$130.1 billion) in international visitor spending during the same year, making it Europe’s leading tourism destination by spending and the third-largest globally.
WTTC CEO Highlights Sector’s Strategic Importance
Gloria Guevara, President & CEO of WTTC, said:
“Travel & Tourism continues to prove its resilience across Europe and remains one of the region’s most important economic growth engines at a time when wider economic expansion is slowing. The sector is creating jobs, driving investment, and supporting communities across the continent.
“Countries such as Spain, Italy, France and Türkiye are showing what is possible when governments recognise the strategic value of Travel & Tourism and support the sector through smart investment, strong connectivity, and forward-looking policies. Europe has a real opportunity to build on this momentum, but maintaining competitiveness, affordability, and seamless travel will be critical.”
