‘Keep Gozo unique,’ says Gozo Tourism Association

Strengthening connectivity, diversifying tourism, safeguarding the environment, and investing in people are among the key proposals put forward by the Gozo Tourism Association (GTA) ahead of the 2026 budget.

Key priorities include upgrading ferry and port infrastructure, exploring new air links, and implementing “smart transport solutions to improve accessibility.” Furthermore, the association said that there needed to be a greater focus on niche sectors, like diving, cultural heritage and agritourism. 

Whilst also acknowledging that legislation must modernise to keep with evolving visitor demands.

The association added that protecting Gozo’s unique character requires tailored planning policies, conservation incentives, and the establishment of marine reserves. It also emphasised the importance of joint marketing, digital innovation, and targeted support to position the island as a year-round destination.  

“Tourism for Gozo is undoubtedly one of its main economic pillars. The achievements of this sector are rooted in the island’s uniqueness. Gozo has always been positioned, marketed, and promoted as a different destination, centred on its singular characteristics, natural and rural landscapes, and chequered history,” the association said.

The proposals come as Gozo continues to experience an influx of tourism. In 2024, foreign tourism increased significantly, while domestic tourism recorded a slight decline. According to the National 

Statistics Office (NSO), 20,918 tourists stayed overnight on the island, an increase of 13.24% from the previous year. Foreign day visitors rose by 295,743, a 19% jump of 19% compared to 2023. 

Most inbound tourists (56.5%) came from EU member states, with the United Kingdom remaining the strongest single market at 31.3%. The majority of visitors (60%) were aged between 25 and 44. non-package trips dominated (83%), with accommodation preferences split between self-catering (44%), hotels (30%), and non-rented properties (26%).

Expenditure by inbound tourists using Gozo as their sole destination reached €88.6 million in 2024, up 7.8% from the previous year, although the average spends per visitor dipped slightly to €997. Domestic tourism, meanwhile, fell by 1% to 401,746 visitors, with expenditure down €1.2 million to €66.5 million.

Against this backdrop, the GTA said Gozo must be prepared to deliver on its tourism promise. “The island’s cleanliness, upkeep, and organisation, as well as the standards of its tourism establishments, must meet visitor expectations. At the same time, Gozo must remain competitive in its offerings and ensure that visitors receive value for money. Gozo has excellent potential, let us not disappoint our visitors or shatter their expectations.”

Furthermore, the association said that Gozo’s as a destination can only be sustained through collective action and continued support for the tourism sector. 

The GTA said that to succeed, “execution must be depoliticized, locally managed, and outcome driven. A leaner, KPI-based framework would enhance accountability and drive measurable progress.