Marking two decades since its inception, the Henley Passport Index 2026 reveals a growing divide between the world’s most and least mobile populations. Created 20 years ago and based on exclusive Timatic data from the International Air Transport Association (IATA), the index ranks all the world’s passports according to the number of destinations their holders can access without a prior visa. While a record number of passports now cluster at the top of the ranking, those at the bottom remain increasingly isolated, underscoring a widening global mobility gap.

Madrid once again becomes the focal point of global tourism as it hosts the International Tourism Fair (FITUR), organised by IFEMA MADRID from 21–25 January 2026. In its 46th edition, FITUR strengthens its position as the sector’s leading platform, highlighting both its international reach and its commitment to knowledge as a driver of industry transformation

Minor Hotels has appointed Amir Golbarg to Chief Operating Officer – Middle East & Africa, effective 1 January 2026. The promotion reflects Amir’s exceptional leadership and the region’s record year of growth, marked by strong performance across all key indicators, multiple new hotel signings, and expansion in core markets including Saudi Arabia and Egypt.

The behavior of travelers attending major tourism events is undergoing a significant shift. On the occasion of FITUR Madrid 2026, RateGain, a global leader in AI-powered SaaS solutions for the travel and hospitality industry, analyzed hotel bookings in the Community of Madrid for the week of January 19–25. The analysis reveals a substantial change in booking patterns, characterized by longer booking lead times, higher spend per night, and longer stays.

Wizz Air is raising the bar for budget travel with the introduction of WIZZ Class, a new optional service designed for cost-conscious travellers who value additional personal space and streamlined convenience. This service is available for purchase on the selected* flights to and from Budapest, Bucharest Otopeni, Warsaw, London Luton, London Gatwick and Rome Fiumicino.

Air Inuit, which is wholly owned by the Inuit of Nunavik through Makivvik Corporation, today announced that its first newly re-engineered Boeing 737–800NG combi aircraft has been certified by Transport Canada, marking the arrival of the world’s first 737–800NG configured for both passengers and freight. The aircraft will officially enter service on Air Inuit’s Montréal-Kuujjuaq route on January 13th, 2026.