Spain Orders Airbnb to Block Over 65,000 Listings Amid Holiday Rental Violations Crackdown
In a sweeping move against short-term rentals, Spain has ordered Airbnb to block more than 65,000 holiday rental listings for alleged regulatory violations, according to a statement from the country’s Consumer Rights Ministry on Monday. The action marks a significant escalation in the ongoing battle over housing affordability and the unchecked growth of platforms like Airbnb Spain.
The ministry revealed that 65,935 Airbnb listings have been flagged for removal due to a variety of legal issues. Many of these properties were found to be operating without the required license numbers or failed to disclose whether they were managed by individuals or companies. Some listings even displayed license numbers that did not match official records.
This development highlights the growing tension in Spain over the impact of vacation rentals on the housing market. With cities like Madrid, Barcelona, and other popular tourist destinations experiencing soaring rents, officials have linked the crisis to the surge in short-term holiday rentals. Protests across the country in recent months have seen thousands demand action to reclaim affordable housing.
“Enough already with protecting those who make a business out of the right to housing,” Consumer Minister Pablo Bustinduy stated during a press briefing. He emphasized the government’s intention to end the widespread “illegality” and “lack of control” in the vacation rental sector.
As of November 2023, around 321,000 homes in Spain had official holiday rental licenses—a 15% increase since 2020—yet many others continue to operate without legal authorization, according to official statistics.
In response to the crackdown, Airbnb announced plans to appeal the decision. A company spokesperson argued that the ministry lacks the legal
