Tourist arrivals increase by 16.3% in Q1 2026

Malta recorded a strong start to 2026, with inbound tourism reaching record levels in the first quarter, according to the latest data published by the National Statistics Office (NSO) and a separate statement by the Malta Tourism Authority (MTA).

A total of 806,563 tourists visited Malta between January and March 2026, marking an increase of 16.3 per cent, or 113,071 more visitors, compared to the same period in 2025.

Tourism expenditure also rose significantly, reaching €585 million in Q1 2026, an increase of more than €76 million year-on-year, according to the MTA.

NSO data shows that total nights spent by tourists increased by 11.9 per cent to 4.45 million nights, reflecting stronger overall activity in the sector.

At the same time, total expenditure continued to climb, with March alone generating €234.1 million, up 6.9 per cent compared to a year earlier.

The MTA noted that while per capita expenditure dipped slightly by 1.1 per cent, this was primarily due to shorter stays. The average length of stay declined from 5.7 nights to 5.5 nights, in line with broader travel trends.

However, spending per night increased, rising by 2.7 per cent to €131, suggesting improved yield per tourist night.

Key markets and travel patterns

Growth was supported by strong increases across several core markets. The largest gains were recorded from Poland, the United Kingdom, Italy and the United States.

NSO figures also show that non-EU markets grew at a faster pace than EU markets, rising by 22.1 per cent year-on-year.

By purpose of visit, holiday travel remained dominant, accounting for nearly 295,500 visits in March, while business travel registered a notable increase of 41.9 per cent.

Older travellers continued to play a significant role in off-peak demand, with the 45+ age group contributing the majority of growth in the first quarter, according to the MTA.

Shift towards shorter stays and non-package travel

Tourist behaviour continues to evolve, with shorter stays becoming more common. The number of visitors staying between one and three nights rose by 22.6 per cent, outpacing longer stays.

Non-package travel also gained further ground, increasing by 14 per cent, compared to a 4.9 per cent rise in package holidays.

Accommodation trends reflect this shift, with “other rented” accommodation such as short-term rentals growing faster than traditional collective accommodation.

MTA highlights year-round tourism strategy

Commenting on the figures, MTA CEO Carlo Micallef said the results reflect Malta’s ongoing transition towards a year-round tourism model.

He stated that Malta and Gozo have “firmly established themselves as year-round destinations”, helping to spread demand more evenly across the calendar and support higher occupancy and operational efficiency.

Looking ahead, the authority said the outlook for the coming months remains positive, with expectations of continued growth in both volumes and yields.