Malta reports record tourism growth alongside concerns over overcrowding

In 2025, Malta recorded over four million tourist arrivals, marking a nearly 13% increase compared to the previous year. Official data shows these visitors contributed approximately 3.9 billion euros to the economy. However, this growth has triggered significant concerns among residents and local groups regarding the impact of mass tourism on the country's infrastructure. Activist Michaela Pia Camilleri, creator of the Instagram page 'Overtouristed Malta', highlights extreme congestion in public spaces and beaches, particularly at the Blue Lagoon in Comino. Residents report that daily transit in Valletta is increasingly hindered by high visitor density, with travel times significantly inflated. Public transportation and the local housing market are facing mounting pressure due to the influx. Social media platforms, including TikTok and Instagram, have widely circulated footage documenting the overcrowding in popular tourist hotspots. The situation has prompted a public debate about the long-term sustainability of the current tourism model on the small island nation.