At &LIVING, we know how much our clients love Marbella – and we’re here to help you make the most of life on the Costa del Sol. Beyond finding your dream home, we want to keep you in the loop about the news, trends, and changes that might affect your daily life.
Marbella and the surrounding towns are buzzing with change – new rules, shiny developments, and big projects that will make life here smoother, more connected, and even more fun. Whether you’re strolling along the promenade, shopping at La Cañada, or cheering at a football match, 2026 and beyond promise plenty of reasons to love living (or investing) on the Costa del Sol. Here’s what’s on the horizon.
V-16 emergency beacon – a small, obligatory gadget, hence a big difference
From January 1, 2026, every vehicle in Spain will need a DGT-certified V-16 emergency beacon with geolocation. Think of it as the modern replacement for warning triangles – stick it on the roof, and it automatically signals authorities and other drivers if you have a breakdown. No apps, no registrations, just extra safety – and a fine of up to €200 if you skip it. Better safe than sorry!
Bizum reporting – keeping everything above board
Starting 2026, all Bizum payments received by businesses or self-employed people will be reported to the Tax Agency, no matter the amount. That means even small transactions count, so keep your records tidy!
Veri*Factu-compliant system – a must-have for every business
From January 1, 2026, all companies in Spain must issue invoices via a Veri*Factu-compliant system, while self-employed professionals (autónomos) must comply from July 1, 2026. These certified tools generate tamper-proof invoices with a unique code, digital signature, and QR, and can send data directly to AEAT. After these dates, invoices issued without a compliant system may be invalid for tax purposes, and fines can apply.
Non-resident tax (IRNR) – a possible relief for property owners
Currently, owning property in Spain – even if it sits empty – can trigger IRNR tax for non-residents. The EU is challenging this, and if Spain changes the rules, many non-resident owners could see that tax disappear. Fingers crossed for 2026!
Marbella’s new General Urban Plan (PGOM) – making life easier
The city council approved PGOM in June 2025, aiming for a “fifteen-minute city” where essentials are always close by. Expect a third lane between San Pedro and Puerto Banús, an expanded Ronda road, new access routes to the Costa del Sol Hospital, more public parking, and better transport links across town.
San Pedro Alcántara Transport Interchange – enhancing mobility
Opening by the end of 2026, this new transport hub at “El Cielo de San Pedro” at the junction of the A-7 and the A-397 Ronda road, will improve connectivity across Marbella. It will feature six covered bus bays, a central building of 120 m² with waiting areas and services, and 270 nearby parking spaces. The interchange is expected to handle over 100 daily bus departures, boosting both local and tourist travel.
Marbella’s new football stadium – a sporty future
The old Antonio Lorenzo Cuevas stadium is making way for a modern 10,000-seat arena. The multifunctional complex will feature a sports hotel, wellness center, shops, dining, and over 1,000 underground parking spaces. Costing up to €130 million, it could even host some matches for the 2030 FIFA World Cup. Opening is projected for the 2026–27 season. Soccer seasons will get brighter!
Expansion of La Cañada Shopping Centre – retail heaven
La Cañada is getting bigger! A €12 million extension will add 20,000 m² of retail space (totaling 120,000 m²) and a new underground car park. The start date is still TBC, but the end result will mean more shopping options for locals and tourists alike.
Málaga-Costa del Sol Airport – ready for takeoff
By 2032, the airport will nearly double its terminal size, add a new pier for non-Schengen flights, increase security screening by over 100%, and accommodate up to 36 million passengers annually. Road access, parking, and taxiways will also get a major upgrade.
Magnet for luxury living – Marbella’s most exclusive streets
Marbella continues to attract high-end buyers, with six streets ranking among the ten most expensive in Spain for purchasing a property, according to Idealista. The crown jewel is the Coto Zagaleta development in Benahavís, where properties command an average of €12.37 million.
In Marbella’s municipality, four prestigious streets in Sierra Blanca – Calle Vivaldi, Calle Albinoni, Calle Wagner, and the urbanization Cascada de Camoján, remain highly sought after, with average prices ranging from €6.87 million to €7.68 million.
New Luxury Investment Property – Marbella and Benahavís
The Costa del Sol continues to see visionary high-end projects that redefine luxury living:
- Four Seasons Marbella – Construction begins in 2026 on this iconic complex designed by Richard Meier, featuring 165 hotel rooms, 260 private residences, and 40 luxury villas.
- Design Hills Marbella – Dolce & Gabbana’s project combines Italian craftsmanship with modern design. The first pilot home was showcased in 2025, with full completion expected in 2026.
- Karl Lagerfeld and Lamborghini Luxury Villas – ultra-luxury villas and apartments for buyers seeking prestige and privacy.
- Bentley Home – eight ultra-luxury residences in a gated community on the Golden Mile, just 50 meters from Puente Romano.
These developments, combined with Marbella’s prime streets and prestigious neighborhoods, continue to position the Costa del Sol as one of Europe’s top destinations for luxury living and investment.
About &LIVING
At &LIVING, we believe that finding or selling a home is more than just a transaction – it’s a life-changing experience. We are committed to providing personalized service to help you navigate the exciting journey of buying or selling your property. Discover endless possibilities with &Living, and let us help you make the most of life on the Costa del Sol.
Stay in the loop! For the latest updates and in-depth guides, follow our blog at andliving.es and keep your finger on the pulse of this ever-changing paradise.
