Lanzarote is focusing on strengthening ties with the UK at the World Travel Market (WTM) in London, where it aims to build commercial and institutional relationships. Over half of the island’s tourists come from the UK, accounting for 51.1% of the 1.46 million visitors aged 16 and older in 2025. These tourists typically stay for an average of 8.7 nights and spend around €1,471 per trip.
From October 2026 to March 2027, Lanzarote will benefit from 16 direct flight routes to British airports, offering over 1.09 million seats. Oswaldo Betancort, president of the Cabildo of Lanzarote, is leading the delegation at the WTM, which runs from November 3 to 5 at ExCeL London.
During the opening day, key figures from both the public and private sectors attended, including Tourism Secretary Rosario Sánchez Grau and Turespaña’s director, Miguel Sanz Castedo. Betancort highlighted the historical trust and loyalty of British visitors, emphasising the importance of enhancing their experience and balancing tourism growth with the conservation of Lanzarote’s natural and cultural heritage.
The island’s presence at the WTM comes alongside the launch of its Director Plan for 2026-2030, focusing on sustainable tourism management. Hector Fernández, CEO of SPEL-Turismo Lanzarote, reinforced the significance of maintaining strong commercial relations amid economic uncertainty and competition.
Key events during the WTM include the international presentation of the Salomon IRONMAN Lanzarote 2027, scheduled for May 15, and discussions on extending marketing agreements with Jet2 and British Airways. Notably, 54.3% of British tourists in 2025 opted for packaged deals.
Lanzarote will also showcase the Sustainable Tourism Worldwide Charter +30, now available in both Spanish and English, updating principles from the original charter established in 1995. This initiative aims to promote regenerative tourism, environmental protection, social justice, and local community wellbeing. The Cabildo hopes to spread these values among international tourism leaders to foster a more responsible and sustainable tourism model.
