The state of Quintana Roo strengthens its tourism expansion plan through market diversification, participation in London's World Travel Market, and the designation of two resorts as base camps for the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Key alliances were solidified and new air routes announced during the event. These efforts aim to boost European visitor arrivals and enhance the local economy.
Quintana Roo outlines a comprehensive approach to tourism growth, centered on three main pillars: expanding international markets, gaining visibility in global events, and preparing for the 2026 FIFA World Cup. At the recent World Travel Market in London, one of the sector's premier fairs, state representatives shared development projections and bolstered ties with key partners.
Official data shows that in 2024, Mexico drew over 2.1 million European tourists, with 59.7% selecting Quintana Roo as their primary destination. The British market stands out, with more than 245,000 UK visitors from January to August 2025, per Quintana Roo's Information and Statistics Center. These tourists average 10-day stays, yielding significant economic impact.
At the event, the Secretariat of Economic Development, Tourism, and Labor (SEDETUR) and the Quintana Roo Tourism Promotion Council (CPTQ) held meetings with airlines and tour operators. An alliance was forged with TUI Group, the world's largest integrated tourism firm, for joint marketing campaigns targeting Cancún, Tulum, and the Riviera Maya. British Airways secured its daily London-Cancún flight for 2026, Virgin Atlantic confirmed its return with strong occupancy, and Aer Lingus will inaugurate the Dublin-Cancún route in January 2026. Collaborations were also planned with Ávoris, Soltour, W2Meet, and El Corte Inglés ahead of FITUR 2026.
Cancún International Airport saw a 7% rise in international traffic in 2024, according to ASUR. The World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC) underscores Quintana Roo's role in national GDP through jobs and local spending. For 2025-2026, further gains in hotel occupancy and connectivity are anticipated, particularly in luxury, wellness, and cultural experiences.
The selection of Moon Palace Cancún and Fairmont Mayakoba as base camps for World Cup teams, assessed against FIFA standards for infrastructure and security, represents a milestone. The tournament could bring over 5 million extra visitors to Mexico, per the Local Organizing Committee, positioning Quintana Roo as a key aerial gateway. The CPTQ showcased 12 Caribbean Mexico destinations, highlighting Maya culture, nature, contemporary cuisine, and regenerative tourism, in line with Governor Mara Lezama's vision.