The high tourist season in Las Palmas de Gran Canaria, which traditionally concludes after Easter Week, ended with an average occupancy exceeding 80% in establishments associated with Ahelpa, maintaining the trend of previous years. The months of January and February 2026 recorded an average occupancy of between 83% and 85%, with a slight decrease in March that neared 80%.
“"There have been a series of rumors about this, and they are not true; the Pope's visit has meant absolutely nothing."
A spokesperson for the capital's employers' association has denied rumors of an increase in bookings linked to the pontiff's visit. Although some hotels have seen an increase, this is due to groups arriving for other reasons, such as National Police meetings, and not directly to the papal presence. It is suspected that attendees of the visit might stay overnight in Tenerife and only spend the day in Gran Canaria.
Furthermore, it has been clarified that accommodation prices in the city have not risen due to this event, remaining at accessible rates. This year's Easter Week was weaker than expected, with an estimated occupancy between 76% and 78%, although this drop is not considered significant.
The hotel employers' association expresses concern about the current situation, especially regarding the conflict in the Middle East, which has led to price increases and flight cancellations. The sector, which accounts for 68% of the local GDP, had hoped for a rebound with the papal visit that ultimately did not materialize, and the opening of new hotel establishments in the city adds pressure to the market.
