The British market, key to tourism in Maspalomas, is turning its attention to the other side of the Strait in search of lower prices, new hotels, and destinations without overcrowding.
The topic has been discussed in the tourism sector in southern Gran Canaria for months, but now the data confirms it: British tourists are abandoning Gran Canaria for Morocco. What began as a trickle is beginning to resemble an exodus, and the word "catastrophe" has already been mentioned by more than one entrepreneur in the southern tourism sector.
According to the latest figures, Morocco's growth threatens Spain as the emerging destination of choice for Britons this coming winter season. The reasons? Extremely affordable package holidays, newly built hotels, uncrowded beaches, and more premium treatment for visitors than they find in many Spanish tourist destinations. In fact, complaints from tourists proliferate on social media, stating that they "no longer feel welcome" in Spanish destinations.
The south of Gran Canaria, which for decades has been a favorite winter destination for the British market, is watching with concern as Ryanair, EasyJet, Jet2, and other airline giants redesign their routes to strengthen connections with Agadir, Marrakech, and Essaouira.
The UK is no longer investing in the Canary Islands as it once did. And this comes just as continued tourism growth was expected in the 2025/2026 season to offset the reputational damage caused by the protests against mass tourism in the past year.
As this publication reported months ago , the British government and its tour operators have been strengthening their relationship with North Africa for some time, and Morocco is taking advantage of the opportunity with very aggressive offers and an image of modernity and security that is disconcerting to those who thought that market was light years ahead of Spain.
