Tourism arrivals in Cuba fell during the first half of 2026, with some reports indicating a decline of up to 60.7% [2].
This collapse threatens a primary source of foreign currency for the Cuban government, exacerbating an existing economic crisis that has limited basic services for citizens.
Data from Infobae shows that 387,591 international visitors arrived during the first half of the year [2]. This figure represents a 60.7% decrease compared to the same period in 2025 [2], while other reports cite a 55% drop compared to the previous year [1].
Industry instability is highlighted by the withdrawal of Meliá, a Spanish hotel chain. The company announced the closure of 15 hotels in Cuba [1]. A spokesperson for Meliá Hotels said the decision came "desde un profundo sentido de responsabilidad empresarial" [4].
The crisis has led to a near-total paralysis of the sector. Prime Minister Manuel Marrero said that "casi tres cuartas partes de los hoteles de la isla permanecen cerrados" [5]. This suggests that approximately 75% of the island's hotels are currently closed [3].
Several systemic factors contributed to the decline. Officials and analysts said U.S. sanctions and chronic fuel shortages are primary drivers [3]. The sector also continues to struggle with the lingering impact of the COVID-19 pandemic [3].
The combination of infrastructure failure and the exit of major foreign investors has left many tourist hubs empty. The loss of the Meliá partnership specifically removes a significant amount of operational capacity from the market [4].
“Tourism arrivals in Cuba fell during the first half of 2026.”
The collapse of the tourism sector signals a deepening economic contraction for Cuba. Because the state relies heavily on tourism for hard currency, the exit of international operators like Meliá and the sharp drop in visitor numbers limit the government's ability to import fuel and food, potentially fueling further internal instability.
