India's Ministry of Finance has significantly increased the duty-free allowance for international passengers and foreign tourists under the new Baggage Rules 2026, effective February 2, 2026. The allowance for arriving passengers is now ₹75,000, while foreign tourists can bring goods worth ₹25,000 duty-free. This marks the first major revision in a decade, aiming to streamline customs and boost tourism.
Saudi authorities have reportedly paused construction on the ambitious Mukaab skyscraper, a centerpiece of Riyadh's New Murabba development, amid a reassessment of its financial viability and a broader review of Vision 2030 megaprojects. The move reflects a shift in investment priorities for the Public Investment Fund.
Banyan Group is set to debut in the Dominican Republic with two new resorts in the Punta Cana area: Angsana Cap Cana and Cassia Punta Cana. These properties, opening in 2026, will introduce luxury resort and extended-stay options, enhancing the region's hospitality landscape.
Cuba's vital tourism industry has experienced a significant downturn, with visitor numbers plummeting from over 4 million in 2019 to 2.2 million in 2024. This decline is largely attributed to tightened U.S. sanctions, including travel restrictions and Cuba's designation as a state sponsor of terrorism, coupled with a severe energy crisis resulting from reduced oil supplies from Venezuela.
Turkish Airlines and Air Montenegro signed a codeshare agreement on January 26, 2026, to enhance air travel options between Türkiye and Montenegro. The deal will see both airlines placing their codes on flights, expanding routes via Istanbul to destinations including Dubai and Baku, and aiming to strengthen tourism and trade.
Air Europa has announced a new direct flight route from Guanajuato's Bajío International Airport to Madrid-Barajas Airport, marking Guanajuato's first direct air link to Europe. The agreement was finalized during FITUR 2026, with flights expected to commence in 2026.
Egypt's balance of payments recorded a deficit of $1.6 billion in the first quarter of the 2025/2026 fiscal year, widening from $991.2 million in the previous year. This occurred despite a significant narrowing of the current account deficit and robust growth in remittances and tourism revenues, according to data released by the Central Bank of Egypt.
The highly anticipated GCC 'Schengen-style' tourist visa, officially known as the GCC Grand Tours Visa, has been delayed until 2026. The postponement is attributed to the complex need for enhanced security integration, alignment of immigration databases, and technical hurdles among the six member states: Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and the United Arab Emirates.
India has emerged as the second-largest overseas source market for US tourism in 2025, with over two million travelers, surpassing the United Kingdom. This milestone reflects a 40% increase in visitation from India since 2019 and highlights the growing spending power of Indian tourists.
China experienced a significant surge in inbound tourism at the start of 2026, with visa-free foreign visitors increasing by 35.8% during the New Year holiday. This boost is attributed to expanded visa-free policies, now extended for over 45 countries until December 31, 2026, aiming to revitalize international travel and foster global engagement.
Portugal's economy is set for robust performance, with GDP growth projected to outpace the eurozone average in 2026, driven by domestic demand and EU funds. The nation anticipates maintaining a budget surplus, with forecasts ranging from 0.1% to 2.1% of GDP for 2025 and 2026. The hospitality sector is experiencing a significant boom, attracting substantial foreign investment, with hotel market value expected to reach €1.15 billion in 2025.
China has announced the extension of its unilateral visa-free policy for citizens from 45 countries, including Bulgaria, allowing stays of up to 30 days for tourism, business, and other purposes. This measure, effective until December 31, 2026, aims to boost international exchanges, foster economic growth, and enhance tourism.
Japan is set to dramatically increase visa and residency fees by up to tenfold starting in fiscal year 2026, impacting tourists, workers, and permanent residents. The move aims to align fees with Western nations and address rising administrative costs amid a record foreign resident population.
Saudi Arabia and the UK are strengthening their collaboration in the creative economy, marked by recent agreements and forums. Initiatives focus on cultural heritage preservation, tourism development in AlUla, and fostering growth across arts, media, and design, aligning with Saudi Vision 2030's economic diversification goals.
Keflavík International Airport recorded 2.253 million international arrivals in 2025, a 0.4% decrease from the previous year's 2.261 million. This slight decline has prompted concerns among tourism leaders regarding reduced national marketing efforts and the need for renewed investment in promoting Iceland as a destination.
The flow of Argentine visitors to Chile has decreased by over 20% at the beginning of the current summer season (late December to early January), with approximately 84,000 crossings compared to over 107,000 last year. This downturn is attributed to reduced savings capacity, a less favorable exchange rate, and other factors impacting Argentine travel decisions.
Enric Torres, Director of Products and Activities at Andorra Turisme, emphasizes grilling as a core element of Andorran cuisine. This statement highlights the country's rich gastronomic heritage, deeply rooted in mountain traditions and local produce, with initiatives like 'Andorra Origins' promoting its unique flavors.
France is set to increase entry fees for non-European tourists at major cultural institutions, including the Louvre and the Palace of Versailles, starting January 14, 2026. The Louvre's price will rise by 45% to €32, while Versailles will see a €3 increase to €35. This 'dual pricing' policy aims to fund extensive renovations and upkeep, but has drawn criticism from unions who argue it violates principles of cultural universalism.
Belavia Belarusian Airlines has inaugurated direct flights from Minsk to Pattaya and Phuket, enhancing travel connectivity and boosting tourism between Belarus and Thailand. The new routes, utilizing an Airbus A330-200, aim to attract high-value European travelers and eliminate the need for connecting flights.
Graffiti has been found on bamboo stalks in a grove near the iconic Fushimi Inari Taisha in Kyoto, highlighting a persistent issue of vandalism in the city's natural attractions. The damage, often caused by tourists, poses a threat to these delicate ecosystems.
