Middle East Conflict Travel Warnings: Could Canary Islands Tourism Surge Again in 2026?

The latest travel advice issued by the UK Foreign Office has once again placed global travel safety firmly in the spotlight as tensions and conflict continue in parts of the Middle East.

In a new report for TravelON World News, Canary Islands travel expert Mr TravelON examines whether the ongoing geopolitical uncertainty could once again shift travel patterns across Europe — and potentially create another tourism surge for the Canary Islands.

As part of his ongoing #TruthTravel series, Mr TravelON explores a key question many travellers are now asking:

Has the war unintentionally become a lifeline for Canary Islands tourism for another year?

Foreign Office Warnings Change Travel Behaviour

When the UK Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) issues travel advice, it can significantly influence where British tourists choose to holiday.

In recent months, several destinations around the Eastern Mediterranean and Middle East have been under increased scrutiny due to regional tensions and security concerns.

While many traditional holiday destinations remain open to visitors, uncertainty around areas such as:

• Egypt
• Turkey
• Parts of the Middle East
• Eastern Mediterranean regions

has already started to influence travel planning for some holidaymakers.

Tour operators and travel experts say that when travellers feel uncertain about one region, they often move towards destinations perceived as safer and more stable.

Why the Canary Islands Remain One of Europe’s Safest Holiday Destinations

The Canary Islands — including Lanzarote, Tenerife, Gran Canaria and Fuerteventura — have long been considered among the safest tourist destinations in Europe.

Mr TravelON points out that while no destination is completely free from crime, the islands continue to offer something travellers increasingly value: a strong sense of safety and stability.

“You always feel safe in the Canary Islands,” Mr TravelON explains in his latest report.

“Of course, like anywhere in the world there is crime, but overall visitors feel comfortable walking around resorts, exploring towns and enjoying their holidays.”

Combined with year-round sunshine, direct flights from the UK and Europe, and a well-developed tourism infrastructure, the Canary Islands often become a natural alternative when travellers avoid other regions.

Will 2026 See Another Tourism Boom?

Interestingly, Mr TravelON had previously predicted that 2026 could be the beginning of a tourism slowdown after the explosive travel recovery seen since the COVID-19 lockdowns.

Since international travel reopened, demand for holidays surged dramatically as millions of people rushed to travel again after years of restrictions.

However, rising costs and inflation have also pushed prices higher across many destinations.

Some travellers have even suggested that the Canary Islands may be pricing themselves out of the market, with accommodation, dining and activity prices increasing in recent years.

Despite this, global uncertainty may once again shift demand.

If travellers avoid destinations closer to geopolitical tensions, the Canary Islands could see continued strong demand for the 2026 and 2027 travel seasons.

Media Pressure and “Anti-Tourism” Headlines

The Canary Islands tourism industry has also faced heavy international media attention over the past two years.

Stories about overtourism, local protests, housing pressures and sustainability concerns have frequently appeared in global headlines.

Some travel publications and influencers have even suggested that travellers should consider avoiding the islands.

One example was the well-known travel guide platform Fodor’s, which included the Canary Islands in a list of destinations travellers were encouraged not to visit due to sustainability concerns.

Despite the headlines, tourism numbers have remained strong.

Visitors continue to arrive in large numbers each year, demonstrating the islands’ resilience as one of Europe’s most established holiday destinations.

The Reality of Modern Travel

However, Mr TravelON also highlights a growing issue affecting travellers everywhere: modern travel has become increasingly stressful.

New border systems, airport queues and security procedures are adding extra pressure to the holiday experience.

One example frequently discussed in recent travel news is the European Union’s upcoming Entry/Exit System (EES), which will introduce biometric border checks for non-EU travellers.

Although implementation has been delayed until September 2026, the system has already caused confusion and testing issues at several European airports.

According to Mr TravelON, systems like this highlight why travel today can feel more complicated than ever.

“Travel can be stressful,” he says.

“That’s exactly why I started #TruthTravel. It shows the real side of travel — the good, the bad and everything in between.”

Will People Travel Less in 2026?

The big question now facing the global tourism industry is whether people will travel less in the coming years.

Economic pressures, geopolitical tensions and new travel regulations could all influence holiday decisions.

At the same time, travel remains one of the world’s most resilient industries.

After years of pandemic restrictions, millions of people still prioritise holidays and international experiences.

The Canary Islands, with their year-round climate, short flight times from Europe and reputation for safety, may continue to benefit from that demand.

Mr TravelON Asks Travellers: What Do You Think?

In his latest #TruthTravel report, Mr TravelON asks viewers and readers an important question.

Will global events influence where you choose to travel in 2026?

Will people avoid certain destinations due to geopolitical tensions? Or will travellers simply continue exploring the world as they always have?

And could the Canary Islands once again become one of the most popular destinations for European travellers this summer?

As always, Mr TravelON invites travellers to share their thoughts and experiences as part of the ongoing conversation about the real world of modern travel.

Share Your Opinion

Would global tensions change where you choose to travel?

Do you think the Canary Islands will see another tourism boom in 2026?

Let us know in the comments and join the conversation with #TruthTravel.

About the author

Mr TravelON is the brand ambassador for TravelON and one of the most watched travel experts in the Canary Islands, with more than 400000 followers across YouTube, TikTok and Facebook. Mr TravelON has worked in tourism for over 25 years with tour operators, excursion suppliers and the local Canary Islands tourism board. He is on the ground in tourist destinations filming content, reviewing tours and talking with holidaymakers every day. His advice comes from real experience and direct contact with the island. As a Travel expert and editor he brings the most up to date travel news.