The quest for winter sun is a popular escape for Brits during the festive season, and the latest travel data reveals some fascinating insights. The Canary Islands reign supreme as the top destination for UK travellers seeking a warm Christmas getaway.
According to OAG, a leading aviation data provider, the Canary Islands dominate the winter sun market. From 20th December 2025 to 4th January 2026, a staggering 3,685 scheduled flights will depart from the UK to the Canaries, outpacing all other destinations by a considerable margin. This study, which examines flight schedules from UK airports to popular winter sun spots, highlights the clear preference for these islands.
But here's where it gets controversial: while the Canary Islands take the crown, other destinations are also in high demand. The United Arab Emirates comes in second with 1,006 flights, followed by Morocco and Egypt. Cyprus, Portugal, and even long-haul favorites like Barbados, Mexico, and Cape Verde make the top 10. This diversity shows that British travellers are open to exploring a range of options, from nearby European destinations to more exotic, far-flung locations.
When we zoom in on specific airports, Tenerife Sur emerges as the busiest winter sun hub within the Canary Islands, handling an impressive 1,495 flights. Lanzarote follows closely with 1,003 flights. On the UK side, Manchester Airport leads the way as the primary departure point for these sunny escapes, offering a wide array of choices for travellers in the north and Midlands.
And this is the part most people miss: the analysis also sheds light on the enduring appeal of the Middle East and North Africa. Dubai International, for instance, remains a top long-haul choice, with 776 scheduled flights. Marrakech in North Africa also sees a significant number of flights, indicating a preference for medium-haul journeys that strike a balance between flying time, cost, and warmer climates.
Funchal in Madeira also makes an appearance, showcasing its mild climate and stunning Atlantic scenery. While it receives fewer flights than the Canary Islands, its inclusion in the top group highlights its unique appeal as a quieter alternative for those seeking a more relaxed festive experience.
So, where do British sun seekers flock to for their Christmas getaway? Here's a rundown of the top airports:
- Tenerife Sur (TFS) - 1,495 flights
- Lanzarote (ACE) - 1,003 flights
- Dubai International (DXB) - 776 flights
- Gran Canaria (LPA) - 628 flights
- Fuerteventura (FUE) - 559 flights
- Marrakech (RAK) - 460 flights
- Hurghada (HRG) - 278 flights
- Sharm El-Sheikh (SSH) - 276 flights
- Agadir (AGA) - 258 flights
- Funchal (FNC) - 245 flights
For travellers planning their own winter sun adventure, this data provides a valuable glimpse into demand and availability. The high frequency of flights to the Canary Islands, Dubai, Morocco, and Egypt suggests strong competition and a wide range of options for those seeking a mix of beach time, family-friendly resorts, and familiar package deals. At the same time, the popularity of destinations like Barbados, Mexico, and Cape Verde shows that many UK travellers are willing to venture further afield for their Christmas break.
As airlines adapt their schedules to meet seasonal demand, the pattern revealed by OAG's data suggests a blend of tradition and exploration. While the Canary Islands remain a firm favorite, new destinations are gradually gaining traction. For now, UK holidaymakers continue to embrace the warmth and sunshine of these popular spots, but the future of winter sun travel looks set to offer an even wider array of choices.
