FITUR 2025, organised by IFEMA MADRID, will take place from January 22 to 26 and will spotlight the growing tourism potential between Spain and the UAE. Approximately ten companies are set to participate, presenting their diverse tourism offerings.
A Growing Connection Between Spain and the UAE
The Gulf region has demonstrated a quicker and more robust economic recovery compared to other markets, with growth exceeding the OECD average. Higher consumer spending and disposable income in the Gulf region make it a key market for tourism development. Both Spain and the UAE possess significant potential to create specialized tourism products tailored to these trends.
Spain saw a record-breaking year in 2023 for tourism from the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries, with notable increases in visitor numbers and spending.
GCC Tourism Growth in Spain
In 2023, the number of visitors from the GCC to Spain reached 434,000, a 33% increase from 2022. On average, these tourists stayed 8.6 days. Notably, 140,000 visitors were from the UAE, and spending from this group rose by 37.8%, averaging €2,668 ($2,806) per visitor—26% more than the previous year.
Tourism expenditure by Gulf visitors in Spain exceeded €1.138 billion in 2023, marking a 64.7% increase from 2022, according to Turespaña data. These travellers are recognized as “high spenders,” with expenditures significantly surpassing those of European tourists.
Meanwhile, around 200,000 Spanish tourists visit Dubai annually, showcasing the mutual interest in travel between the two regions.
Enhanced Connectivity Boosts Growth
Air connectivity between Spain and the Persian Gulf has improved substantially, with airlines increasing both frequencies and routes. Between October 1, 2024, and March 31, 2025, flight capacity from the UAE to Spain is forecasted to grow by 33.2%, building on a 40% increase during the summer of 2024.
FITUR’s Global Reach
FITUR 2024 attracted 9,000 companies from 152 countries and welcomed over 250,000 visitors. With the continued growth in tourism and connectivity, FITUR 2025 promises to be a pivotal platform for strengthening ties and exploring opportunities in the tourism sector between Spain and the UAE.
