Published on
December 21, 2025
At FITUR 2026, the United Kingdom and Spain are set to showcase their leadership in global tourism innovation and growth, underlining their crucial role in shaping the future of the travel industry. This dynamic partnership is built on years of strong bilateral ties, with both nations fostering reciprocal tourism flows and economic growth. As Spain continues to be a top destination for British travelers, and the UK remains a favorite for Spaniards, their collaboration at FITUR 2026 will highlight their shared commitment to driving innovation, expanding business opportunities, and strengthening cultural connections. Through strategic initiatives and new partnerships, the UK and Spain are not only enhancing their tourism sectors but also setting the stage for long-term industry success.
Spain remains one of the most popular destinations for British travelers. In 2024, Spain welcomed 18.4 million British tourists, accounting for nearly 20% of all international visitors to the country. Looking forward to 2025, this number is expected to rise, with 15.3 million British visitors anticipated to arrive, marking a 4% increase compared to the previous year. These tourists are expected to contribute a substantial 19 billion euros to Spain’s economy, reflecting the important role that the UK market plays in the country’s tourism industry.
The exchange between the UK and Spain is reciprocal, with significant numbers of Spanish visitors also traveling to the United Kingdom. In 2024, more than 2.5 million Spaniards visited the UK, spending a total of £1.4 billion. This makes Spain one of the UK’s most important outbound markets, and the connection is further strengthened by the fact that three out of five Spanish tourists are repeat visitors. This trend reflects the cultural and historical ties that continue to deepen between the two nations, making the UK a favored destination for Spaniards seeking unique experiences in vibrant cities and heritage sites.
For the UK, Spain has long been the preferred overseas travel destination. It is the number one international destination for British tourists, a position that has remained steady over the years. With growing air connectivity and an increase in flight availability—especially in the 2025/26 winter season—travel between Spain and the UK remains accessible and convenient. In 2024, British tourists spent an average of 1,228 euros per visit, with daily spending averaging 176 euros. Most stays typically lasted for about seven nights. As of 2025, British spending in Spain has continued to rise by 5%, a clear indicator of the country’s sustained appeal.
This consistent demand for Spanish holidays is underscored by the fact that 41.2% of British travelers consider Spain when planning their vacations, with 15.2% selecting it as their top choice. Satisfaction levels are high among those who have already visited, with 73.3% expressing a positive experience. These statistics highlight the strong and growing preference for Spain among British tourists, cementing its position as one of the leading destinations for travelers from the UK.
At FITUR 2026, the United Kingdom will enhance its presence, with a special focus on the addition of Destination North East England. This will be the first time that this region will officially be represented at the fair. Additionally, a wide variety of UK-based businesses across sectors such as travel agencies, Destination Management Companies (DMCs), travel tech companies, and wholesalers will participate. Companies like Mews and Sabre, well-known names in travel technology, will also showcase their innovations, contributing to the event’s overall impact. Warner Bros. London Studio will also take part, adding to the cultural dimension that draws British visitors to Spain.
British tourists primarily visit Spain for leisure, enjoying the country’s famous beaches, vibrant cities, and excellent shopping opportunities. Spain’s cultural richness, world-renowned cuisine, and favorable climate continue to make it a top choice for British travelers. Conversely, Spaniards are attracted to the UK for its historic landmarks, diverse cultural offerings, and bustling urban life. Many Spanish visitors also travel to the UK to visit family and friends, reinforcing the social and cultural connections between the two nations. This exchange of tourism helps foster further cooperation and growth in both the Spanish and British tourism markets.
FITUR 2026 will provide a unique platform for strengthening the ties between these two countries and exploring new business opportunities. With both Spain and the UK being significant players in global tourism, the event will allow industry professionals to share ideas, forge new partnerships, and look for ways to enhance the travel experience for tourists. This collaboration is crucial for ensuring the continued growth and success of the tourism sector in the years to come.
At FITUR 2026, the UK and Spain will highlight their leadership in global tourism innovation and growth, showcasing their strong bilateral ties and commitment to expanding business opportunities and cultural connections.
The continued success of Spain and the UK as complementary tourism markets speaks volumes about the value of their strong and enduring relationship. As FITUR 2026 approaches, the connection between these two nations stands as a testament to the power of travel in fostering cultural exchange, driving economic growth, and creating lasting bonds between countries. Through mutual collaboration, both Spain and the UK are poised to remain at the forefront of global tourism, offering travelers unparalleled experiences and enriching both nations’ tourism industries.
