Issue link: https://maltatoday.uberflip.com/i/1543507
5 gozotoday | FRIDAY • 27 FEBRUARY 2026 NEWS Over 192,000 foreign tourists visited Gozo in 2025 - NSO MORE than 192,000 foreign tourists visited Gozo in 2025, marking a 7% increase com- pared to the previous year, ac- cording to the latest data pub- lished by the National Statistics Office (NSO). The figures in- dicate continued growth and a balanced distribution of visitors throughout the year, reinforc- ing Gozo's position as a year- round destination. The total number of foreign tourists who spent at least one night on the island reached 192,021 in 2025. Seasonal data show a relatively even spread: summer accounted for 37% of total visitors, spring 27%, au- tumn 26%, and winter 10%. While summer remained the busiest period, October re- corded the highest number of foreign arrivals, and December registered the strongest rate of growth. All seasons experienced year- on-year increases in 2025. Au- tumn saw the largest rise at 22%, followed by winter with 11%, spring with 2%, and sum- mer with 1%. Gozo Minister Clint Camill- eri, welcomed the statistics, de- scribing the consistent growth and balanced seasonal distribu- tion as evidence that the gov- ernment's strategy to promote Gozo as a year-round tourism destination is delivering results. Latest official figures also show that collective accom- modation, covering both for- eign and domestic tourism, increased by 22% compared to the previous year, with every month recording gains. Authorities noted that im- proved connectivity between Malta and Gozo has contrib- uted to the positive trend. In 2025, there were over 46,000 trips between the islands, an increase of 1,700 over the pre- vious year, averaging 126 trips per day. The government also high- lighted continued investment in cultural activities, with support provided to 326 events during the year, aimed at enhancing the island's attractiveness and added value for visitors. Officials acknowledged that increased activity brings chal- lenges and reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening connectivity. In recent weeks, plans were announced for two new vessels, expected to en- ter service in 2029, as part of a €130 million investment. A task force has also been established to analyse and review the infra- structure capacity of the Mġarr Harbour. Tourists in the capital of Gozo, Victoria in November 2025 (Photo: James Bianchi/MaltaToday) Oasi Foundation of Gozo launches restructuring and announces career open day THE OASI Foundation of Gozo has announced that it is enter- ing what it describes as an "ex- citing new chapter" as part of an ongoing period of restruc- turing aimed at strengthening its services and operations. In a statement, the Founda- tion said the changes are in- tended to enhance its impact and improve the way it sup- ports the community. It em- phasized that its core mission remains focused on providing "support, guidance, and care" to individuals in need. As part of this transition, the Foundation is seeking new staff and volunteers, describing the opportunity as suitable for "passionate, purpose-driven in- dividuals" interested in mean- ingful work and collaboration. To promote available oppor- tunities, OASI will be hosting a Career Open Day on Saturday, 28 February, from 9:00am to 12:30pm. The event will pro- vide attendees with information about career and volunteering roles within the Foundation. During the Open Day, partic- ipants will have the opportuni- ty to hear from professionals working with the organisation, learn about its services, and lis- ten to a first-hand recovery ex- perience. Further information about vacancies is available on the Foundation's website, and reg- istration for the event can be completed through the provid- ed online form.