How Casino Resorts are Shaping Tourism in the Canary Islands

Casino Resorts Fueling Tourism Growth in the Canary Islands

The Canary Islands have witnessed a striking surge in casino resort popularity, fundamentally transforming the tourism industry across key islands such as Tenerife, Gran Canaria, Fuerteventura, and Lanzarote. In 2025 alone, casino resorts reported an increase in visitor numbers by 87.5%, attracting over 3.2 million guests and generating nearly €780 million in direct revenue. This growth signals a powerful shift not only in visitor preferences but also in the economic fabric of the region.

Beyond the gaming floors, these resorts have become economic engines, employing roughly 18,500 residents—marking a 32% rise in tourism-related jobs compared to 2022. This makes casino resorts some of the largest private employers in the region, illustrating their pivotal role in the Canary Islands’ job market.

One of the most notable changes driven by casino resorts is in tourists’ behavior and spending habits. Visitors drawn to these integrated resorts tend to stay longer—averaging 8.3 days compared to 6.1 days among traditional tourists. This extended stay naturally leads to increased expenditure per visitor, with casino resort guests spending an average of €1,860 compared to €1,240 by others.

Economic Impact and Multiplier Effects

The benefits of these casino resorts ripple through the local economy, far beyond the immediate casino grounds. For every euro spent directly inside the casinos, an additional €1.73 is generated elsewhere in the regional economy, creating a robust multiplier effect. This results in a total economic impact of around €1.35 billion linked to casino patrons, highlighting the integrated nature of the tourism and local business environment.

Moreover, casino resorts contribute significant tax revenues which benefit local governments substantially. In 2025, these resorts paid:

• €112 million in gambling taxes
• €87 million in property taxes
• €63 million from tourism-specific levies

These funds boost public services and infrastructure, reinforcing the islands’ appeal not only for leisure tourists but also enhancing living standards for the residents.

Historical Context: Tourism Evolution in the Canary Islands

The Canary Islands have long been favored as a year-round destination, blessed with a subtropical climate and dramatic volcanic landscapes. The islands of Tenerife and Gran Canaria, in particular, were among the first to gain recognition as winter destinations for European travelers in the 19th century. Since the 1960s, tourism has grown rapidly, with charter flights bringing an increasingly diverse visitor base to the archipelago.

Tenerife offers vivid contrasts, from the volcanic peaks of Mount Teide to fertile northern valleys and bustling beach resorts like Playa de Las Americas, which sprung up during the tourism boom of the 1970s. Gran Canaria’s southern coastline, with fine sandy beaches and popular resorts like Playa del Inglés and Maspalomas, caters to a mass tourism market, predominantly drawing German, British, and Scandinavian visitors.

Lanzarote and Fuerteventura, with their rugged volcanic terrain and expansive beaches, are known for more tranquil tourism experiences, often attracting those seeking natural beauty and outdoor activities such as windsurfing and jeep safaris. These islands retain a delicate balance between traditional lifestyles and modern tourism amenities.

The Casino Resort as a Modern Tourism Phenomenon

Casino resorts represent a new chapter in the development of Canary Islands tourism. Historically, resorts evolved around natural assets such as beaches and landscapes. Today, entertainment components like casinos have broadened the scope of attractions, offering an all-encompassing experience that includes gaming, fine dining, shopping, conventions, and cultural events.

This shift aligns with global tourism trends where destinations diversify their offerings to attract varied traveler segments, including non-gambling tourists. The integration of casinos within resort environments has helped destinations extend visitors’ length of stay and amplify economic contributions, ensuring durability in competitive markets.

The Significance of Casino Tourism for the Canary Islands’ Future

Looking forward, the burgeoning casino resort industry is likely to play an even larger role in shaping tourism dynamics in the Canary Islands. With increased infrastructure investment and a growing workforce, the region can capitalize on this sector’s capacity to generate jobs and revenues.

The impact on international tourism is considerable, as casino resorts attract visitors who might otherwise choose other sun-and-sand destinations. Their presence boosts the Canary Islands’ profile as a diverse and vibrant destination offering more than just beach holidays.

The continued expansion of casino resorts could bring new challenges and opportunities, requiring careful management to balance economic growth with social and environmental sustainability, as well as integration with existing tourism activities.

Summary Table: Key Figures on Canary Islands Casino Tourism in 2025

Conclusion

The casino resort boom in the Canary Islands marks a transformative phase in the region’s tourism sector, driving higher visitor numbers, longer stays, increased spending, and significant employment growth. These developments contribute not only to the islands’ economy but also to the diversification of tourism experiences, creating new opportunities for leisure and entertainment beyond traditional beach tourism.

For marine and sailing enthusiasts, these changes hint at a landscape where opportunities to combine boating activities with luxurious resorts and vibrant nightlife become increasingly possible. The Canary Islands’ extensive marinas and favorable weather already make them a hotspot for yacht charter and sailing, and the growth of integrated casino resorts may enhance the appeal of these destinations as hubs for broader recreational activities on both land and water.

To explore the best options for yacht and sailing boat rentals in the Canary Islands, consider using GetBoat.com—an international marketplace offering a wide selection of sailing yachts and boats for charter, catering to every taste and budget. With the evolving tourism landscape, combining the thrill of casino resorts with the freedom of the sea is becoming an enticing prospect for travelers seeking diverse and memorable experiences.