- Japan leads global tourism development rankings
- United States ranked second, Spain third
- Japan climbed from third place in 2024
- 92pc of ranked nations improved scores between 2024 and 2026
- Projected shortage of 43m tourism workers by 2035
Japan has reclaimed the top spot among 110 economies in the World Economic Forum’s 2026 Travel and Tourism Development Index, climbing up from third place in 2024. The comprehensive global index, co-produced with the Zurich Insurance Group, highlights Japan’s exceptional cultural resources, advanced transportation infrastructure and effective strategic measures taken to mitigate overtourism. The United States ranked second, followed by Spain, Australia and France.
Ireland is ranked 20th globally with an overall score of 4.57 out of 7, a rise of 3 positions compared to its previous standing.
The index evaluates countries on a 1-to-7 scale based on conditions that support sustainable travel and tourism growth. Advanced economies dominated the top tier, taking nine out of the ten leading spots. According to the official World Economic Forum publication, Japan’s return to the top was driven by several structural strengths. The country successfully managed its record-breaking inbound volume by intentionally dispersing visitors away from primary urban tourist hubs into lesser-known regional destinations. High marks were sustained due to an elite ground transportation network and an immensely wealthy collection of cultural landmarks.
By extending its general visitor base geographically, Japan effectively minimised spatial concentration risk while maintaining upward economic performance. The 2026 report outlines a broader, highly resilient recovery alongside rising structural headwinds for the global tourism sector. Roughly 92pc of the ranked nations improved their overall scores between 2024 and 2026, averaging an upward bump of 2.1pc. Developing travel economies are closing the gap rapidly.
Notably, India climbed nine spots to finish 31st globally, aided heavily by low travel costs and strong natural assets. China stands as the only non-advanced economy to break into the global top ten. Sector growth faces rising hurdles. Travel-related expenses are rising quicker than baseline inflation, causing a drop in price competitiveness for 75pc of the index’s economies. A projected global shortage of 43m tourism workers looms over the industry by 2035.
