CT Insight Report: What’s new in Spain?

Known for its rich Mediterranean heritage, year-round temperate climate and cultural landmarks, Spain remains a top destination for GCC travellers, ranking sixth in the 2026 Connecting Travel Insight Report, based on data from travel analytics firms RateHawk and Emerging Travel Group.

Madrid recorded a 165% increase in searches from UAE travellers for the winter travel period from 1 December 2025 to 28 February 2026, according to Expedia data. The Spanish capital topped Expedia’s list of fastest-growing destinations, fuelled by growing regional connectivity.

In October 2025, Dubai’s Emirates Airline ramped up capacity to Barcelona, operating 21 weekly flights to the city. Most recently, new Saudi Arabian carrier, Riyadh Air, is set to offer three weekly flights between King Khalid International Airport (RUH) and Adolfo Suárez Madrid-Barajas Airport (MAD) from 17 July 2026. 

RELATED:

Celebrity Xcel to host president’s cruise in 2026

200 Senior travel professionals attend Connections Luxury Europe

First Look: Sabàtic Gavà Mar, a Tribute Portfolio hotel, Barcelona, Spain

Building on a record 97 million tourists in 2025, Spain expects further growth in 2026 as world‐class sports events take centre stage. Formula 1 Grand Prix will debut in Madrid on a 5.47km circuit with 20 corners, while Barcelona will host the start of the Tour de France.

Families can look forward to Sould Park Málaga, billed as the city’s largest entertainment venue, with a roller coaster, water rides and 7D cinema.

Boutique hotel openings include Nobu Madrid with 50 keys and a rooftop bar, the 29‐room cliff‐edge Gran Hotel Margalida in Mallorca and Grand Hotel Claridge, a 70‐room historic property facing Granada Cathedral.