Cuba’s Tourism Sees 62% Drop in Visitor Arrivals January-July 2026
Cuba's international tourist arrivals fell by 62% in the first seven months of 2026, declining from 1.1 million in 2025 to 419,000. The drop reflects economic difficulties and flight suspensions amid fuel shortages.
Gulf Tourist Arrivals Surpass 75 Million in 2025; Saudi Arabia Accounts for 40%
More than 75 million tourists visited GCC countries in 2025, with Saudi Arabia receiving 30 million international visitors. Tourism spending in the region exceeded $131 billion that year.
Federal Visa Validity Limit Set for September 15, 2026
A new federal rule will cap visa durations at four years starting September 15, 2026, according to Brown Daily Herald. Visa holders with longer durations must prepare for renewals or adjustments to meet the new regulations.
Metro East Tourism Generates $1.48B Economic Impact in 2025
The Metro East region's tourism economic impact grew to $1.48 billion in 2025, a $79 million rise from the previous year. Route 66's upcoming 100th anniversary and targeted marketing campaigns contributed to this growth.
Greece hikes property transfer tax to 15% for non-EU buyers from July 2027
The Greek government will raise the property transfer tax from 3% to 15% for non-EU buyers of residential properties starting July 1, 2027. This change significantly increases costs for investors in the Greece Golden Visa program.
UK Student Visa Funding Requirement Rises to $19,100 for African Students
From November 30, 2026, African students applying for UK student visas must show £14,130 ($19,100) for nine months’ living costs in London. The increase aligns with domestic student loan support and affects countries including Nigeria, Ghana, and South Africa.
UK Raises Student Visa Maintenance Funds to $19,100 for African Students
Starting November 30, 2026, UK student visa applicants from African countries must show increased maintenance funds of up to £14,130 in London. Nigeria issued 26,060 Sponsored Study visas in the year ending June 2026, ranking third worldwide.
Greece Plans 15% Property Transfer Tax for Non-EU Residential Buyers from July 2027
Greece plans to increase the property transfer tax for non-EU residential buyers from about 3% to 15%, effective July 1, 2027. This change will notably affect Golden Visa investors and other third-country nationals purchasing property.
UK Student Visa Funding Raised to $19,100 for African Applicants Nov 2026
From November 30, 2026, UK student visa applicants from African countries must prove $19,100 for living costs. Nigeria had 26,060 Sponsored Study visas issued in the year ending June 2026.
Metro East Tourism Generates $1.48 Billion Economic Impact in 2025
Tourism in Metro East generated $1.48 billion in economic impact in 2025, supporting 9,823 jobs. Illinois statewide tourism reached $88 billion economic impact with 115 million visitors and record tax revenues.
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Runway 22L Closure at Midway Airport Triggers Delays
Chicago Midway Airport closed Runway 22L on October 20, 2026, to repair damaged Engineered Material Arresting System materials. The closure is expected to cause delays and cancellations until mid-November.
Sri Lanka Tourism Revenue Rises 1.5% in September 2026 to $185.6 Million
Sri Lanka's tourism revenue rose 1.5% year-on-year to US$185.6 million in September 2026 despite a 0.3% decline in tourist arrivals. Total tourism earnings fell 9.2% in the first nine months of 2026 compared to 2025.
Cross River State Tourism Bureau Joins African Travel Commission as Affiliate Member
Cross River State Tourism Bureau joined the African Travel Commission as an affiliate member on October 18, 2026. The membership aims to enhance regional cooperation and tourism development in Africa.