DENPASAR, DEWATA.NEWS – Bali’s tourism direction for 2026 is being shaped toward higher quality and long-term sustainability, with policies emphasizing destination zoning, professional management, sustainable investment, and stricter regulatory enforcement.
The shift marks a strategic move away from mass tourism toward a more balanced model centered on cultural values, environmental preservation, and visitor experience.
Tourism observer Trisno Nugroho, speaking in Denpasar, said destination planning will be a critical factor in ensuring tourist distribution is more evenly spread and no longer concentrated in already saturated areas.
“Bali must become more professional and transition from mass tourism to quality tourism by prioritizing comfort, sustainability, and authentic experiences. Most importantly, Bali must not lose its identity as a cultural tourism destination,” he said.
According to Trisno, Bali’s 2026 tourism policy direction is focused on improving quality rather than simply increasing visitor numbers. This approach is being pursued through zoning arrangements, improved destination management, and stronger governance to ensure Bali remains sustainable and globally competitive.
Meanwhile, Bali Villa Association (BVA) Chair Putu Gede Hendrawan noted that Bali’s villa sector faced challenges throughout 2025, particularly during the Christmas and New Year holiday period.
“In terms of occupancy, the period leading up to the 2025 year-end holidays was not as strong as in previous years. On average, there was a decline of around 20 percent compared to the previous year,” he said.
He explained that the downturn was influenced by several factors, including national social and political dynamics, natural disasters in parts of Indonesia, and extreme weather conditions during the rainy season. Flooding in several villa areas also directly affected bookings and operations.
In addition, increased competition from regional destinations such as Thailand and Vietnam has presented further challenges, as social and political stability in those countries has remained relatively conducive, influencing traveler preferences.
Despite the slowdown, Putu Gede described 2025 as a normalization phase following the exceptional post-pandemic surge in 2024. “The spike in 2024 was very high due to the post-pandemic effect. The market is now adjusting. This is not a setback, but a process toward a healthier and more balanced tourism sector,” he said.
Looking ahead, he expressed optimism that improved national conditions and stronger quality-based tourism governance will support renewed growth in 2026. “With regulatory improvements, better service quality, and adaptation to climate-related challenges, we are confident that Bali’s tourism sector, including villas, will recover and emerge stronger,” he added.
With a strategy centered on quality, sustainability, and cultural value, Bali’s tourism outlook for 2026 is expected to mark a new phase of more resilient, inclusive growth that delivers tangible benefits for local communities.