Planning an international trip in the year ahead? From remote Pacific islands surrounded by turquoise lagoons to serene vineyard landscapes in South America, BBC Travel has released its curated list of the 20 best destinations to visit in 2026.

The latest edition goes beyond traditional tourism appeal, placing strong emphasis on sustainability, cultural authenticity, and destinations that promote responsible travel practices.

Global Travel Trends Shaping 2026

This year’s selection reflects a clear shift in traveler priorities. Rather than focusing solely on iconic landmarks, the list highlights destinations that offer:

• Strong environmental conservation efforts
• Preservation of local heritage and traditions
• Less crowded, alternative travel experiences
• Community-based tourism initiatives

As a result, several emerging and lesser-visited destinations have been featured alongside established global cities.

Experience-Based Destination Categories

The destinations are broadly grouped based on the type of travel experience they offer:

• Cultural and urban exploration: Abu Dhabi, Philadelphia, Oulu
• Nature, coastlines, and marine escapes: Cook Islands, Montenegro, Oregon Coast, Loreto
• Historic and heritage-rich locations: Algeria, Guimarães, Santo Domingo
• Wildlife and eco-tourism hubs: Komodo Islands, Samburu, Costa Rica
• Quiet and off-the-beaten-path retreats: Colchagua Valley, Slocan Valley, Uruguay

In Focus: Key Destinations

Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates

The capital of the UAE is rapidly positioning itself as a global cultural hub. Alongside the already established Louvre Abu Dhabi, upcoming projects such as the Zayed National Museum and the immersive digital art experience “teamLab Phenomena” are expected to draw global attention.

Yas Island is also expanding its entertainment offerings, with plans for a major theme park attraction that could significantly boost family tourism.

Algeria

Often overlooked in favor of Europe’s more crowded destinations, Algeria is emerging as a compelling alternative. The country offers extensive Roman archaeological sites, vast desert landscapes in the Sahara, and a rich blend of Arab and Berber heritage.

Recent policy adjustments, including more flexible visa processes and improved flight connectivity, are making it increasingly accessible to international visitors.

Colchagua Valley, Chile

Located in central Chile, this region is gaining popularity among travelers seeking a slower pace of tourism. Known for its premium wine production, the valley offers boutique vineyard stays, traditional Chilean rodeo experiences, and exceptional conditions for stargazing due to low light pollution.

Costa Rica and the Cook Islands

Costa Rica continues to set global standards in eco-tourism, with protected rainforests, wildlife reserves, and sustainable hospitality practices.

Meanwhile, the Cook Islands—particularly Rarotonga—offer pristine beaches, coral reefs, and a strong Polynesian cultural identity, making them ideal for both relaxation and cultural immersion.

Additional Destinations Worth Noting

The list also features a diverse mix of destinations across continents:

• Ishikawa: Known for preserving traditional Japanese crafts, architecture, and sake production
• Montenegro: Offers scenic coastal towns and mountain landscapes without the heavy crowds seen in neighboring regions
• Komodo Islands: Famous for the Komodo dragon and vibrant marine biodiversity
• Philadelphia: Preparing for large-scale celebrations marking 250 years of American independence
• Oulu: Set to shine as a European Capital of Culture, showcasing Arctic innovation and lifestyle

Other destinations such as the Hebrides in Scotland, Phnom Penh in Cambodia, and Uluru in Australia further highlight the diversity of travel experiences available in 2026.

Complete List of Top Destinations

The full ranking spans 20 destinations:

1. Abu Dhabi, UAE
2. Algeria
3. Colchagua Valley, Chile
4. Cook Islands
5. Costa Rica
6. Hebrides, Scotland
7. Ishikawa, Japan
8. Komodo Islands, Indonesia
9. Loreto, Mexico
10. Montenegro
11. Oregon Coast, USA
12. Oulu, Finland
13. Philadelphia, USA
14. Phnom Penh, Cambodia
15. Guimarães, Portugal
16. Samburu, Kenya
17. Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic
18. Slocan Valley, Canada
19. Uluru, Australia
20. Uruguay (Montevideo)

What Makes These Destinations Stand Out

A key factor behind the selection is the balance between tourism growth and sustainability. Many of these destinations are investing in:

• Eco-friendly infrastructure
• Conservation of natural habitats
• Promotion of local businesses and artisans
• Reduced over-tourism pressure

This approach not only enhances the visitor experience but also ensures long-term benefits for local communities.

Source: ekhon.tv

Hamad International Airport has announced an expansion of its flight operations in anticipation of heightened passenger demand during the upcoming summer travel period. The move comes as Qatar Airways continues to strengthen its worldwide route network.

Airport authorities stated that 26 partner airlines are currently operating services to and from Doha, contributing to the expected rise in travel activity over the coming months.

Passengers have been advised to contact their respective airlines directly for ticket reservations and the latest schedule updates. The airport also confirmed that all operational arrangements are being coordinated closely with aviation authorities and airline partners to maintain efficient and uninterrupted travel services during the peak season.

Travellers were further encouraged to visit the airport’s FAQ section for information regarding newly added airlines and updated operational guidance.

Source: Qatar Tribune

Kuwait’s acting director general of civil aviation, Duaij Al-Otaibi, has said that Kuwait International Airport is secure and prepared to fully resume operations once clearance is granted by the relevant authorities.

Speaking to Kuwait News Agency on Monday, Al-Otaibi stressed that safeguarding passengers, personnel and infrastructure remains the primary concern guiding all operational decisions. He described the current security arrangements as precautionary steps aimed at maintaining high protection standards, acknowledging that they may cause some inconvenience to travellers.

He noted that the airport is gradually restoring activity levels to those seen before the recent Iranian aggression, with improvements underway in both performance and operational efficiency. Passenger flow is being carefully managed to ensure smooth movement from parking areas to terminals.

As part of temporary security protocols, boarding gates are not currently in use, with passengers transported to aircraft by bus. Authorities are reviewing the situation and may reinstate standard boarding procedures following further assessment.

Additional support has been introduced for elderly passengers and those with disabilities, including electric wheelchairs and improved access through elevators. Al-Otaibi added that the main terminal entrance is expected to reopen in the coming days after coordination with key bodies such as the Ministry of Interior and the General Fire Force.

He said the measures form part of a wider safety strategy, supported by weekly operational reviews to facilitate a phased return to normal services.

Al-Otaibi also revealed that the airport’s control tower—considered among the most advanced globally—was targeted during the recent attack, with damage recorded through audio and video documentation. The incident drew condemnation from the International Civil Aviation Organization. He added that radar and technical systems were quickly repaired through coordinated efforts and leadership support.

Senior officials, including His Highness Sheikh Ahmed Abdullah Al-Ahmed Al-Sabah, conducted on-site inspections to assess the damage and commended the level of preparedness and compliance with safety standards. The Civil Aviation Authority, led by Sheikh Hamoud Mubarak Al-Hamoud Al-Sabah, implemented emergency and security protocols in coordination with multiple agencies, reflecting a high level of institutional cooperation.

Al-Otaibi also acknowledged the role of Sheikh Abdullah Ali Abdullah Al-Salem Al-Sabah in overseeing readiness efforts, as well as the support of the General Authority of Civil Aviation for facilitating Kuwaiti airline operations through access to Saudi airports. He said such collaboration underscores the importance of Gulf cooperation in maintaining aviation continuity.

Highlighting Kuwait’s long-term ambitions, Al-Otaibi pointed to the country’s advanced infrastructure, including a modern third runway, an upgraded control tower and sophisticated air navigation systems, positioning it as a potential regional aviation hub. He also cited Kuwait’s strategic location and connectivity projects, including links to Mubarak Al-Kabeer Port, as key factors supporting its development as a logistics centre.

Looking ahead, he outlined plans to establish a dedicated aviation academy to train national talent, noting the increasing participation of young Kuwaitis in the sector and the need to expand training programmes to meet future demand.

Despite ongoing regional tensions, Al-Otaibi said the security situation remains stable. He advised passengers to follow official guidance, avoid congestion, arrive at the airport at least three hours before departure and refrain from making unnecessary bookings that could disrupt operations.

Source: QCAA NEWS

Nigeria’s government has imposed limits on jet fuel prices and approved credit arrangements for airlines in an effort to prevent widespread flight disruptions linked to sharply rising fuel costs, according to an official document reviewed by Reuters.

The Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA) set indicative retail price ranges for aviation fuel between 1,760 naira and 1,988 naira per litre in Lagos, and between 1,809 naira and 2,037 naira in Abuja. These benchmarks are based on pricing data from April 17 to April 23.

Despite the pricing framework, the regulator cautioned that volatility in global energy markets, including tensions involving the United States and Iran, as well as higher supplier costs, could still push prices upward.

Neither the NMDPRA nor the aviation ministry immediately responded to requests for comment.

The policy shift follows emergency discussions triggered by airline warnings that jet fuel prices had surged by more than 270%. Operators said the spike had forced fare increases and raised concerns over potential capacity reductions.

Last week, President Bola Tinubu approved a 30% relief measure on airline debts owed to aviation agencies. He also directed fuel suppliers, airlines, and regulators to agree on a “fair” pricing structure within 72 hours to avoid disruption across the aviation sector.

As part of the agreed measures, airlines will be granted a 30-day credit period for fuel purchases. The aviation ministry has also been tasked with mediating outstanding debt disputes between operators and petroleum marketers, according to the document.

A technical committee established by the NMDPRA recommended that fuel marketers supply airlines directly within the approved price band, a move intended to reduce costs and improve transparency in the supply chain.

The committee also called for engagement with Dangote Petroleum Refinery and Petrochemicals regarding recently increased premiums applied to international pricing benchmarks used for jet fuel.

Additional recommendations include stricter validation of fuel distributors operating in airport zones, which could reduce the number of authorised suppliers, as well as exploring the inclusion of jet fuel under Nigeria’s naira-for-crude programme to limit airlines’ exposure to foreign exchange fluctuations.

(Exchange rate used: $1 = 1,360.5 naira)

Source: ZAWYA

The Dubai Civil Aviation Authority (DCAA) has introduced a new Aviation Consumer Welfare Directive designed to enhance passenger rights and improve how complaints and disputes are managed within the emirate’s aviation sector.

The initiative establishes a structured regulatory system that defines the relationship between passengers, airlines, and licensed travel agencies. It also introduces formal mediation processes, giving the regulator a more active role in resolving conflicts and protecting consumer interests.

Under the new framework, passengers will have access to a clearer and more transparent process for lodging and monitoring complaints. The DCAA will act as an intermediary, facilitating communication between involved parties and overseeing resolution procedures. Authorities say the system is intended to strengthen accountability and build greater trust across the aviation ecosystem.

The directive applies to all passengers travelling through Dubai’s airports, as well as airlines and authorised travel agents operating in the emirate. By formalising operational and service expectations, the framework aims to reduce disputes and improve consistency in handling passenger concerns.

The DCAA will be responsible for implementing and supervising the system, including establishing regulatory standards, enabling mediation channels, and ensuring compliance among all stakeholders. The broader objective is to improve service quality and enhance the overall passenger experience across Dubai’s aviation sector.

Source: ZAWYA

The Dubai Civil Aviation Authority (DCAA) has introduced a new Aviation Consumer Welfare Directive designed to reinforce protections for airline passengers and improve how complaints and disputes are handled within Dubai’s aviation industry.

The directive sets out a unified regulatory structure defining the relationships between passengers, airlines, and licensed travel agents. It also introduces a formal mediation process intended to resolve disagreements more efficiently, reflecting a more proactive regulatory approach to consumer protection.

Under the new system, passengers will have access to a transparent mechanism for lodging complaints and tracking their progress. The DCAA will act as a facilitator between relevant parties, ensuring communication is streamlined and disputes are addressed through structured resolution channels. Authorities say the initiative is intended to strengthen trust and accountability across the aviation sector.

The framework covers all passengers travelling through Dubai’s airports, along with airlines and authorised travel agencies operating in the emirate. By formalising operational relationships, it aims to improve transparency and reduce friction in the handling of customer grievances.

The DCAA will oversee the implementation of the directive, including the establishment of regulatory standards, mediation processes, and compliance monitoring. The authority stated that the broader objective is to enhance service quality and improve the overall passenger experience across Dubai’s aviation network.

Source: ZAWYA