At FITUR 2026 in Madrid, Gran Canaria is targetting national, Portuguese, and Italian markets. Presentations focus on record-breaking revenue (surpassing 2019 levels with fewer visitors in some segments), quality over quantity, and deseasonalised appeal.
Gran Canaria, the diverse Canary Island known for its year-round mild climate, varied landscapes-from golden Maspalomas dunes and volcanic interiors to lush northern valleys-and vibrant cultural scene, continues to evolve its visitor experience in 2026. The island focuses on premium, sustainable, and quality-driven tourism, aiming to attract higher-spending travellers while addressing overtourism concerns through responsible growth and enhanced offerings.
Gran Canaria’s accommodation sector sees targeted enhancements in 2026, with emphasis on repositioning, management changes, and premium upgrades rather than a surge of entirely new large-scale builds (though broader Canary Islands plans include significant additions by 2028, concentrated in southern areas like Maspalomas).
ZEL by Meli√° Fuerteventura (noted in regional context, but Meli√°’s Canary expansion includes lifestyle repositionings; for Gran Canaria, the brand’s presence builds on existing Paradisus properties). Meli√° Hotels International accelerates its immersive luxury and lifestyle portfolio, with Gran Canaria benefiting from the group’s commitment to destination-integrated resorts promoting wellbeing and local essence.
H10 Costa Mog√°n (Playa del Cura, southern coast): This adults-only beachfront property, fully renovated in recent years, continues to shine in 2026 with enhanced facilities including two restaurants, a rooftop with Atlantic views, a beach club, gym, and wellness programmes featuring yoga, cross training, and aquagym. Live shows and music at the Mog√°n Lounge add year-round nightlife appeal.
Management transitions bolster capacity: Servatur assumes administration of three additional complexes in southern Gran Canaria (Puerto Plata, Rocamar, and Doña Elvira) as the group marks its 50th anniversary in 2026, strengthening local expertise in mid-range and family-oriented stays.
Broader trends include conversions of historic urban buildings in Las Palmas de Gran Canaria (Vegueta and Triana districts) into boutique hotels, alongside major repositioning projects from groups like Lopesan (adding significant rooms in Maspalomas). These align with a shift towards experiential luxury, sustainable design, and adults-only options.
Gran Canaria enhances its core strengths in nature, culture, and adventure without major new physical attractions opening exclusively in 2026, instead prioritising improved access, sustainability, and immersive promotion.
The Risco Caido and the Sacred Mountains Cultural Landscape (UNESCO World Heritage site) sees strategic 2026 management with mandatory advance reservations and daily visitor quotas to protect fragile archaeological cave settlements and ceremonial sites in the mountainous interior. This ensures sustainable access while highlighting indigenous heritage.
Ongoing developments support diverse activities: climbing volcanic rock walls with ocean views, exploring beaches, stargazing, and nature immersion in protected areas. The island promotes its dual character-spontaneous beach visits alongside planned sacred site explorations.
Events and festivals enrich the calendar, including the Festival Internacional de M√∫sica de Canarias (January-February), Carnaval de Las Palmas de Gran Canaria (January-March), Epic Gran Canaria (February), and Fiesta del Almendro (almond blossom celebrations in early year).
Carlos √Ålamo Cabrera, Consejero de Turismo del Cabildo de Gran Canaria, has emphasised the island’s progress: 2025 marked a historic year in billing terms (over ‚Ǩ300 million), reinforcing a quality-focused model with higher spend per visitor. He highlights the destination’s strength in closing the year around five million visitors while prioritising sustainable, high-value tourism.
These additions position Gran Canaria in 2026 as a multifaceted destination blending premium coastal luxury, cultural depth, and responsible nature experiences, offering a balanced, year-round escape amid growing emphasis on quality and environmental stewardship.
