Málaga has taken a major step to balance its booming tourism sector with the local housing market. The city council has confirmed that it will suspend new licences for tourist accommodation for the next three years, following a promise made by Mayor Francisco de la Torre. This comes as part of a wider update to Málaga’s General Urban Development Plan (PGOU) and will remain in effect until new regulations are approved.
The move is the latest in a series of measures designed to control the growth of holiday rentals in the city. Previously, new licences were restricted to properties with private entrances and facilities, so that tourists do not have to use communal areas of residential buildings. Restrictions were also introduced in 43 districts where holiday rentals already represent more than 8% of the housing stock.
Currently, there are 12,754 licensed tourist properties in Málaga, although only 8,596 are actively operating. Mayor De la Torre has also called on the regional government to remove from the registry properties that fail to meet these previous requirements.
Why this matters for real estate
This temporary pause is about more than just tourism. It allows the city to carefully review the impact of short-term rentals and to encourage long-term rental options, addressing the ongoing shortage of housing. The measure also reflects concerns from property owners about legal uncertainties, as landlords often face difficulties evicting tenants who fail to pay.
Looking ahead: the new PGOU
The upcoming revision of Málaga’s General Urban Development Plan (PGOU) promises to shape the city’s future real estate landscape. Key points under discussion include:
- Promoting innovative residential models such as cohousing, coliving, and flexliving.
- Expanding high-end hotel options to boost tourism.
- Streamlining development processes for property investors.
- Strengthening Málaga’s position as a leading city both nationally and internationally.
- Retaining local talent and attracting new residents from abroad.
For investors and property buyers, this move signals a more regulated market for holiday rentals while highlighting opportunities in long-term residential leasing and new residential developments.
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