Workforce mobility and talent shortages remain key challenges for the travel, tourism and hospitality sector, despite signs of broader market stabilisation, according to the ACI Report 2026.
The annual report, based on insights from professionals across Asia-Pacific and neighbouring regions, examines employment trends, salary movements and workforce sentiment across the industry.
Findings show unemployment has risen to six per cent, up from two per cent the previous year, while 58 per cent of respondents plan to change jobs within the next 12 months, indicating continued labour market volatility.
Although redundancies have fallen to three per cent, salary growth has moderated. Just 57 per cent of respondents received a pay increase, though 59 per cent reported receiving a bonus. Salary remains the primary reason for changing roles, cited by 34 per cent of respondents.
Workplace preferences continue to shift, with 59 per cent of employees now working fully on-site, up from 54 per cent last year. Meanwhile, 47 per cent ranked work-from-home arrangements as the least important factor when evaluating employment opportunities.
Regionally, the Middle East (the UAE and Saudi Arabia) recorded the highest average salary at US$212,744. The report also highlights a gender pay gap, with men earning 15.6 per cent more on average than women.
Hiring sentiment appears more stable. Only three per cent of hiring managers anticipate redundancies in 2026, compared with 10 per cent previously, while 39 per cent expect to increase headcount. However, employers continue to cite skills shortages and rising salary expectations as key recruitment challenges.
The report positions itself as a practical reference for employers, HR leaders and professionals navigating ongoing shifts in the travel and hospitality employment landscape.
Andrew Chan, founder and CEO of ACI HR Solutions, said: “The data shows a workforce that is increasingly mobile, experienced, and selective. While large-scale redundancies appear less likely, competition for skilled talent remains intense, and organisations will need to balance cost discipline with competitive remuneration and career development strategies.”
The full report can be viewed here.
