Málaga–Costa del Sol Airport has just recorded its best year ever, handling over 26.7 million passengers in 2025. It is now Spain’s fourth busiest airport and the main international gateway to Andalusia. Next, it’s set for a major expansion that will almost double its size. For Marbella property buyers, this goes beyond infrastructure, it directly affects accessibility. And in real estate, ease of access often shapes both lifestyle and long-term value.
What’s Changing
This is the airport’s biggest upgrade since 2010, backed by a national investment plan, with Málaga receiving one of the largest allocations.
Key improvements include:
• €1.5 billion investment
• Terminal expansion from 80,000 to 140,000 m²
• Capacity increase to 36 million passengers annually
• Major upgrades to non-Schengen areas
• Faster, more efficient security and passenger flow
Timeline:
2026 (design) → 2028–2029 (construction) → 2031 (completion)
The airport remains fully operational throughout.
Why It Matters for Marbella
More routes, broader demand. With additional capacity, Málaga can introduce more long-haul flights, particularly to the US, Middle East, and Asia, markets where buyer interest is growing.
Connectivity supports property values
Improved access typically strengthens demand. Málaga’s recent passenger growth has already coincided with strong price performance in Marbella. Marbella remains just 45 minutes from a major international airport offering both privacy and global connectivity, a rare combination.
What Buyers Should Know
Although completion is expected in 2031, markets tend to respond early to infrastructure improvements. Investment activity, especially in Marbella East, already reflects this shift. Still, buyers choose Marbella for its lifestyle, climate, and security. The airport expansion simply reinforces those fundamentals and supports long-term confidence.
Best,
Johan Mihkelson Ringqvist
CEO & Founder
Marbella Golf Estates
Ekholmsnäs Golf Lidingö
Contact:
johan@marbellagolfestates.com
+46 708 752 557
Spain Office:
Peter Jacobsen Premium Estates
Avenida Tomás Pascual 22
Club de Golf La Quinta
29679 Benahavís
Sweden Office:
Marbella Golf Estates
Ekholmsnäs Golf Lidingö
Ekholmsnäsvägen 87
181 41 Lidingö