12:17 - 13.08.2026

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August 13, Fineko/abc.az. The Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) has released an updated ranking comparing current global tourist flows to 2019 levels. The data highlights a dramatic shift in international travel preferences.

The Middle East, Africa, and Latin America emerged as the primary winners:

• Saudi Arabia: Led the global surge with a record 67% increase.

• Morocco and Egypt: Reported robust gains of +55% and +47%, respectively.

• Brazil and Colombia: Expanded their tourist inflows by +46% and +45%.

• Japan: Continued its strong momentum with a 34% rise.

Conversely, ongoing geopolitical conflict pushed Israel to the bottom of the list with a 71% decline. Sharp drops were also recorded in Ireland (-32%), Argentina (-23%), and Peru (-22%).

Surprisingly, traditional tourism powerhouses also suffered losses, including the US (-14%), Canada (-11%), and Thailand (-17%). Meanwhile, Europe presented a mixed picture: the Baltic states and Hungary saw declining visitor numbers, whereas Spain, France, and Greece maintained steady growth between +11% and +16%.