Barcelona to Increase Tourist Tax to Combat Overtourism

Barcelona to Increase Tourist Tax to Combat Overtourism

Post by : Kanchan Chandel

July 23, 2024 1:22 p.m. 1031

Photo: X/@robtravelexpert

 

Barcelona’s Mayor Jaume Collboni has unveiled plans to increase the tourist tax for cruise passengers who stay in the city for less than 12 hours. This move is part of his broader strategy to address the impact of mass tourism on Barcelona. Collboni, from the Catalan Socialist party, has already introduced measures to combat overtourism, including a ban on tourist apartment rentals by 2028.

Stay informed with the latest news. Follow DXB News Network on WhatsApp Channel 

Collboni's new proposal aims to make sure that the city benefits more from brief cruise visits. The current €7 (£6) daily tax for cruise passengers will be significantly raised. This tax hike is intended to ensure that cruise visitors contribute fairly to the city's economy and help fund local projects, such as installing air conditioning in schools. The mayor stressed that the increase is not meant to deter tourists but to ensure they pay their share.

In addition to the cruise tax increase, Collboni has proposed ending short-term rental licenses for the 10,101 approved tourist apartments by 2028. This decision follows widespread protests across Spain against the negative effects of the booming tourism industry on local housing and daily life.

Collboni's stance is that the right to housing should take precedence over short-term tourist accommodations. He argues that short cruise stopovers lead to an intensive use of public space without significant benefits for the city, causing issues of saturation and occupation.

Last year, Spain welcomed a record 85.1 million international tourists, marking a 19% increase from 2022. The growing influx of tourists has sparked protests in various regions, including the Balearic Islands and the Canary Islands, highlighting the strain on housing and local infrastructure.

Rafael Giménez of Prou Eivissa and Víctor Martín of Canarias se Agota have both criticized the outdated tourism model that contributes to overcrowding and resource depletion. Upcoming protests, including one in Palma, Mallorca, are expected to further address the need for sustainable tourism practices.

Old Blood Pressure Drug Hydralazine Shows Promise in Reducing Brain Tumour and Cancer Risk

A new study shows hydralazine, a 70-year-old blood pressure drug, may help reduce brain tumour growt

Nov. 18, 2025 6:04 p.m. 60

Gulf Air Finalizes Order for 15 Boeing 787 Dreamliners to Expand Global Reach

Gulf Air confirms 15 Boeing 787 Dreamliners order, boosting international network, fleet expansion,

Nov. 18, 2025 6:04 p.m. 156

Rashmika & Vijay: Engagement, PDA & Love Moments

Rashmika opens up on past love, Vijay shows sweet support at The Girlfriend event, leaving fans swoo

Nov. 18, 2025 6:04 p.m. 258

Etihad Airways Adds 32 Airbus Widebodies to Boost Fleet Growth

Etihad Airways expands fleet with 32 Airbus widebodies, enhancing global travel, premium services, a

Nov. 18, 2025 6:03 p.m. 172

Priyanka Chopra Brings Back the Kamarbandh as 2025’s Hottest Fashion Trend

Priyanka Chopra’s ivory look brings back the kamarbandh as 2025’s top fashion accessory, inspiring n

Nov. 18, 2025 6:02 p.m. 82

UAE’s PHI-1 Satellite Set for Global Space Collaboration

UAE’s PHI-1 satellite, built in Dubai, to launch with global payloads, advancing innovation, researc

Nov. 18, 2025 6:01 p.m. 140

Qatar Denounces Violence, Expresses Condolences to India

Qatar condemns New Delhi metro bombing, offers condolences to victims, supports India, and rejects a

Nov. 18, 2025 5:59 p.m. 247

Japan Warns Citizens in China Amid Rising Tensions Over Taiwan Crisis

Japan warns citizens in China to stay safe amid Taiwan tensions. Japan urges caution as China reacts

Nov. 18, 2025 5:58 p.m. 146
Sponsored
https://markaziasolutions.com/
Trending News

Rashmika & Vijay: Engagement, PDA & Love Moments

Rashmika opens up on past love, Vijay shows sweet support at The Girlfriend event, leaving fans swoo

Nov. 18, 2025 6:04 p.m. 258

Abu Dhabi Hosts Round Two of Formula 4 Powerboat Race

UAE Formula 4 Powerboat Championship returns to Abu Dhabi Corniche with local and international race

Nov. 18, 2025 5:14 p.m. 256

India A to Face Oman in Asia Cup Rising Stars 2025 on Tuesday

India A faces Oman in Asia Cup Rising Stars 2025 after a loss to Pakistan, aiming for a second win a

Nov. 18, 2025 4:42 p.m. 255

Keisuke Honda Believes Japan Can Win 2026 World Cup

Keisuke Honda believes Japan has the talent and potential to reach the semifinals or win the 2026 Wo

Nov. 18, 2025 3:15 p.m. 272

Netherlands Coach Sees Strong Team for World Cup 2026

Koeman praises Netherlands squad after 4-0 win over Lithuania, emphasizing quality, leadership, and

Nov. 18, 2025 3:11 p.m. 259

Tuchel to Guide Dropped England Players Ahead of World Cup

England manager Tuchel will guide dropped players like Alexander-Arnold and Bellingham to prepare fo

Nov. 18, 2025 2:49 p.m. 251

Josh Tongue Confident England Prepared for Ashes in Australia

Josh Tongue confident England is ready for the Ashes in Australia, highlighting a strong bowling att

Nov. 18, 2025 1:56 p.m. 261

Cameron Green Ready to Bowl as Australia Prepares for Ashes Test

Cameron Green is fit to bowl for Australia as the Ashes begin in Perth, adding strength to the team

Nov. 18, 2025 1:51 p.m. 257