Spain Blocks Over 65,000 Airbnb Holiday Rentals Over Licensing Violations

Spain has ordered Airbnb to remove over 65,000 holiday rental listings due to violations of housing regulations, including missing licence numbers and unclear ownership information, as part of a national crackdown on unlicensed short-term rentals. Consumer Rights Minister Pablo Bustinduy emphasized the government's goal to end the widespread 'lack of control' and 'illegality' in the holiday rental market, highlighting the displacement of residents and the transformation of cities into tourist-focused areas. This action is in response to escalating housing affordability crises and public protests against overtourism in cities like Madrid, Barcelona, and other popular destinations. Barcelona has announced a plan to ban all short-term tourist apartment rentals by 2028 to prioritize housing for permanent residents. The crackdown reflects coordinated efforts by national and regional governments to regulate short-term rentals and address the impact of mass tourism on housing markets, echoing similar measures in other major European cities. Airbnb has contested the decision, questioning the ministry's authority and methodology, and has pledged to appeal the order.