The Consell Insular de Ibiza argues that its policy against tourist intrusion is beginning to show results. Data from Ibestat ‘s Human Pressure Index and the Ibiza Tourism Intelligence System (SITEibiza) show that, in August, the island had 5.8% fewer people present each day than in 2024, despite registering slightly higher hotel occupancy, according to the Hotel Federation.
Although the decline includes both residents and visitors, the Consell interprets this trend as an indication that tourists who previously opted for the illegal supply are moving to regulated accommodation or choose to avoid the months with peak demand (which explains increases in visitors in April and May). “The figures confirm that the fight against intrusion is working,” defended the president
According to the latest report of Ibestat, each day of August have been in Ibiza between 18,000 and 20,000 people less compared to last year. In parallel, the hotel occupancy survey of the Federation of Ibiza and Formentera points to an increase in the same month of almost 1% and an increase in the resident population of more than 2,000 people.
Inspections by the Consell and SITEibiza have identified and eliminated more than 14,500 places of illegal tourist accommodation. According to the insular executive, this reduction of the irregular market contributes to reduce the population pressure in the peak months, while improving the quality of the legal offer.“Ibiza can not continue to grow in July and August. We are committed to the coexistence between tourism and residents, and for a more balanced growth,” said Marí.
The president also recalled that, thanks to the limitation of rental vehicles -restricted to 16,000 units-, about 12,000 fewer cars circulate every day, a measure that, according to the Consell, has also improved mobility and sustainability.
Ibiza, an example for other islands
As reported by the Consell, the island’ s tourism containment policies have aroused the interest of British tour operators and specialized media, which during the World Travel Market in London described the island’s strategy as “pioneering” and a model for other destinations to follow.
In this line, the Balearic Government presented Ibiza’s measures as an example of tourism sustainability in the meetings held with the island councils. “Ibiza marks the path towards a more balanced tourism in the Balearic Islands,” stressed sources of the autonomous administration, which highlighted the positive impact of the fight against intrusion and the limitation of vehicles.
For the Consell, this international recognition reinforces its commitment to a tourism model that prioritizes quality over quantity, and consolidates the island as a benchmark in the transition towards sustainable tourism.
De-seasonalize and diversify
The Consell also presented in London its diversification and deseasonalization policies, focused on the “Ibiza Family Moments” program , which brings together 43 establishments with more than 14,000 places oriented to family tourism.The airlines, meanwhile, have increased by 3% their flight offer for November, which the Consell interprets as a sign that the season is lengthening.
“We remain committed to tourism, but with clear limits. We want a sustainable and livable Ibiza all year round,” concluded Marí.
