Headlines citing a ‘tourist ban’ are inaccurate – but new regulations signal growing issues with mass tourism
But with a record 94 million tourists last year setting it among the most visited countries on earth, debates on mass tourism are gathering steam.
The surge in visitors has stoked complaints from some about “overtourism”, ranging from concerns about overcrowding to water use and particularly the availability and affordability of housing.
But that doesn’t mean Spain is putting the brakes on tourism, an industry that accounts for about 12pc of its GDP.
Here’s what Irish holidaymakers need to know.
Does Spain have a ‘tourist ban’?
No, but some cities have started to regulate tourism rental properties.
Malaga this month prohibited new rental properties in 43 neighbourhoods of the city, including the historic centre, where those rentals exceed 8pc of the residential stock.
The policy will be tested for three years.
What else is happening?
Spain’s government has started listening to demands for more regulation, particularly around housing in Spain’s big cities.
Earlier this month, Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez introduced a 12-part plan to tackle the housing crisis, with measures aimed at bringing stricter regulations to short-term rentals that mainly cater to tourists.
Spain is in the throes of a growing housing affordability problem. Skyrocketing rents are particularly acute in cities like Barcelona and Madrid, where incomes have failed to keep up, especially for young people.
Housing prices are also steadily rising, especially in cities and coastal areas.
Meanwhile, Barcelona plans to close down all of its 10,000 apartments licensed as short-term rentals in the coming years to safeguard the housing supply for full-time residents.
The city announced last year that it would not renew any new tourism apartment licenses after they expire in 2028.
Today’s News in 90 seconds – 29th January 2025
Can I still holiday in Spain?
Yes. Tourists can book hotel stays and short-term apartment-style rentals just about anywhere in Spain.
Although it has been called a “tourist ban”, new measures in Malaga and other areas won’t stop tourists from visiting, and you can still book packages, hotels, Airbnbs and apartments that already exist.
It has been reported that some existing accommodation may be affected in Malaga, including holiday flats registered since February 22 of last year that do not have entrances and utilities separate from those for permanent residents.
These could impact Airbnb’s popular ‘private room’ option, which can see tourists staying in rooms or separate spaces within the owner’s property.
What else should I know?
Visitors renting a car in Spain or booking hotel stays will also have to file more paperwork thanks to a new law that requires hotel owners and car rental companies to send personal information to the government for national security reasons.
Passport details, home addresses and payment information used by travellers above 14 are among the details that will be collected.
– Additional reporting by Pól Ó Conghaile