When vacationing in sunny destinations like Spain, many travelers delight in dining outdoors, savoring the warmth while relishing a refreshing beer and tapas for lunch or dinner.
However, this summer brings new restrictions that could hinder the joy of eating paella al fresco, especially for Brits with travel plans in May 2026.
Recently, modifications to the National Labour Agreement for the Hospitality Sector (ALEH) have been introduced to safeguard workers, such as waitstaff, during severe weather conditions. Consequently, bars and restaurants must shut down their outdoor terrace spaces for health and safety reasons when extreme weather alerts, like orange or red, are issued due to high temperatures.
According to the Majorca Daily News, businesses with outdoor terraces in Spain will have to adjust their operations during heatwaves, either reducing or suspending outdoor services while continuing indoor service. Additionally, businesses must have adequate cooling systems indoors or modify staff schedules to mitigate the effects of the heat.
Travelers from the UK heading to Spain or its islands in May may find their dining experiences impacted by these new regulations. The return of El Niño, a weather phenomenon bringing prolonged warm temperatures globally every two to seven years, is predicted for next month. This climatic event typically raises temperatures, leading to red weather alerts across Spain.
Although the forecast is still pending confirmation, reports from the World Meteorological Organization (WMO) indicate the likelihood of a ‘strong event’ this year, translating to exceptionally hot weather from May to July.
Businesses that fail to comply with the new rules, such as forcing employees to work outside during red weather alerts, could face fines exceeding €50,000 (approximately £43,000) from Spain’s Labor and Social Security Inspectorate.
Besides the impact on outdoor dining, other changes await British tourists this summer. Travelers arriving at Spanish and EU airports now have to utilize the EU Entry/Exit System (EES), causing queues at some busier airports.
Several Spanish destinations, like Vigo port, are imposing tourist taxes to
