Málaga Faces Tourism Overload: Locals Warn City is ‘Collapsing’

Málaga is grappling with an overwhelming influx of tourists, prompting concerns from residents and activists about the city’s sustainability. Kike España, an urban planner and member of the Málaga Tenants’ Union, has expressed alarm over what he describes as the city’s tipping point due to tourism saturation.

España notes that Málaga’s once peaceful Plaza de la Merced is now a hub of activity, with visitors crowding local cafés and landmarks. He likens the current state of the city to a theme park, where tourists consume rather than truly engage with the local environment. This sentiment reflects a broader concern among residents about the negative impacts of mass tourism.

In late June, thousands of locals took to the streets in protest, advocating for changes in how the city manages tourism. Their grievances include rising housing costs, gentrification, and an influx of crowds disrupting daily life. Similar protests have erupted across Spain, including in Barcelona, Alicante, and the Canary and Balearic Islands, highlighting a nationwide frustration with tourism’s impact.

Spain, a major global tourist destination, saw record numbers of visitors in 2023, with expectations for even higher figures in 2024. This surge has driven significant economic growth, contributing approximately 13% to the national GDP. However, the benefits are increasingly overshadowed by the strain on local infrastructure and housing.

José Luis Zoreda of the tourism industry association Exceltur emphasizes the sector’s economic contribution but acknowledges the need for balance. As tourism has boomed, so have issues such as inflated rental prices and the displacement of local businesses. In Málaga, areas like Plaza de la Merced are seeing up to 25% of apartments converted into short-term rentals, exacerbating the housing crisis for residents.

Political figures are starting to address these challenges. Recent measures include tourist taxes in Catalonia and the Balearic Islands, and restrictions on cruise ship arrivals in Palma de Mallorca. In Málaga, local authorities are exploring controls on short-term rentals and potential caps on rental prices to alleviate the crisis.

Kike España advocates for immediate action to preserve the city’s character and ensure that locals are not sidelined by tourism’s expansion. “We are not opposed to tourism itself, but to the city models that prioritize tourists over residents,” he asserts. “We must maintain the energy and diversity of our cities.”