Online Reporter
Oliver Kazunga-Senior Reporter
GLOBAL geopolitical tensions linked to the Middle East conflict are expected to inject volatility into international travel flows, even as Zimbabwe’s tourism sector continues to record strong growth in the first quarter of this year.
In its 2026 First Quarter Tourism Performance Report, the Zimbabwe Tourism Authority (ZTA) said the country’s tourism industry demonstrated resilience, with international arrivals rising by 11 percent to 384 561, up from 347 555 in the same period last year.
During the period under review, tourism receipts grew by 14 percent to US$251 million.
The authority noted that while the outlook remains positive, the ongoing Middle East conflict, alongside fuel price fluctuations and potential air route disruptions, poses risks to long-haul travel markets that could affect global tourism demand.
“In the short-term, if fuel costs remain high and flight routes are disrupted, overseas arrivals may stagnate.
“However, regional (African) inbound tourism could partially offset losses, as it is less affected by long-haul disruptions.
“In the medium-term, Zimbabwe’s solid start to the year provides a strong recovery platform once geopolitical tensions ease.
“This, in addition to the country’s marketing efforts, renewed international reputation and improved air connectivity, will support the rebound,” said ZTA in the report.
“The domestic market is also expected to anchor the sector’s growth.“To strengthen Zimbabwe’s tourism resilience, the sector players should reduce dependence on long-haul overseas markets by more aggressively promoting regional African tourism, which proved more stable.”
And despite the external pressures, Zimbabwe’s tourism sector has benefited from improved competitiveness, stronger branding and rising global visibility.
The ZTA warned that geopolitical instability, particularly in the Middle East, could disrupt international air connectivity and increase travel costs, potentially slowing overseas arrivals.
However, it noted that regional African travel is likely to remain more stable, helping to cushion the sector against global shocks.
In the quarter under review, overseas arrivals grew by 16 percent, while African arrivals increased by nine percent, with Africa accounting for 75 percent of total arrivals, slightly down from 76 percent last year.
The overseas market share edged up to 25 percent, reflecting Zimbabwe’s gradual return to higher-spending long-haul markets.
Despite global headwinds, Zimbabwe’s tourism sector maintained a strong upward trajectory, supported by improved air connectivity, expanded regional flight networks, and cluster-based tourism development strategies.
Domestic tourism also surged, with trips increasing to 2,62 million, up from 1,94 million, driven by religious travel, visiting friends and relatives, and study-related movement.
The growth highlights increasing domestic market participation, which the ZTA says is becoming a key stabilising pillar for the sector.
