The possibility of Spain suspending Schengen access for Italian citizens, as Rome has done in response to the Ceuta migration crisis, as a reaction to border tensions within the European Union, raises a unique question about the true role of the Italian market in the island's economy. According to the latest consolidated figures released in 2025, Italian tourism to Gran Canaria is minimal. The island receives 125.046 Italian tourists over the age of sixteen, supported by 131.899 passengers on direct flights operated by Aena, and 11.143 passengers under sixteen.
Within leisure activities and services, 17,8% booked organized excursions (average expenditure of €80), 5,5% participated in sports activities (average expenditure of €118), 3,4% took part in cultural activities (average expenditure of €70), 9,2% visited museums (average expenditure of €62), 5,8% went to amusement parks (average expenditure of €127), 14,8% frequented nightclubs (average expenditure of €61), and 1,7% used wellness services (average expenditure of €194). Finally, 42,7% purchased souvenirs (average expenditure of €74), and 7,5% had medical or pharmaceutical expenses (average expenditure of €100).
The total revenue generated by this segment in the Canary Islands amounts to €156 million, of which €106 million corresponds to net revenue at the destination, excluding airfare. Operational indicators reflect an average stay of 13,94 days with an average daily expenditure of €120,8—which drops to €86,0 per day after deducting the airfare, valued at an average of €398,9. Regarding accommodation, 61,0% opt for room only, 17,1% choose all-inclusive, 10,9% half-board, 9,2% bed and breakfast, and 1,8% full-board, distributed as follows: 29,1% private accommodation, 16,7% apartments or villas, and 12,2% 4-star hotels.
Compared to the major continental economies that massively support the sector, any potential border changes with this market would barely affect the island's macroeconomic performance. Regarding transportation, 93,9% incur national or international transport costs (average expenditure of €425), 6,0% used inter-island tickets (average expenditure of €73), 23,8% used taxis (average expenditure of €66), 37,1% rented vehicles (average expenditure of €112), and 17,1% used public transport (average expenditure of €29). For food, 70,9% shopped at supermarkets (average expenditure of €176), and 72,0% ate at restaurants or cafes (average expenditure of €168).
