The war in the Middle East has a surprising side effect – and it happens of all things on Mallorca. Wealthy holidaymakers who had actually planned luxury holidays in Dubai are suddenly looking for villas on the Balearic island.

Real estate agents are reporting a surge in demand with rental prices of up to 100,000 euros per week. For Mallorca this could be a business in the short term, but a new problem in the long term.

Luxury villas on Mallorca are suddenly in high demand

The effects of the geopolitical situation are apparently already being felt on the island. The demand for exclusive villas is increasing significantly, particularly in the high-priced segment.

“Since the recent developments in the Middle East, we have observed a significantly increased demand for luxury rental properties in Mallorca,” says Marcel Remus, a broker specializing in luxury real estate, in an interview with FOCUS online.

The number of inquiries has sometimes even increased “many times over compared to a normal spring,” says Remus. According to him, stays around Easter and Pentecost are particularly in demand.

Guests move from Dubai to Mallorca

According to the broker, tourists who originally had other luxury destinations in mind are actually coming. “We are receiving more and more inquiries from customers who had originally planned to vacation or invest in Dubai,” says Remus.

Many of those interested were looking for short-term alternatives in Europe – and Mallorca was at the top of the list. “Due to the infrastructure, security and high-quality properties, the island is one of the most attractive options,” explains the agent. Many customers would consciously choose Mallorca again: “Back to the roots, back to Mallorca.”

Villas cost up to 100,000 euros per week

The budgets in the luxury segment are correspondingly high. “For exclusive villas in top locations such as Son Vida, Puerto Andratx or Santa Ponsa, we are currently seeing rental budgets of up to 100,000 euros per week or more,” said Remus. Such prices are possible, especially for short-term bookings for the coming months.

The real estate agent himself provides a practical example: “I rented out my own house ‘Villa Remus’ in Son Vida this week to Swiss customers who are moving in for ten days shortly after Easter.” The price: 2800 euros per night.

Real estate associations on the Balearic Islands are also observing a new dynamic. According to the president of the Balearic Chamber of Realtors, José Miguel Artieda, there are already interested parties looking for villas worth two to five million euros. In some cases even buyers who had previously considered real estate in Dubai.

“Security will be the most valuable currency in the world in 2026”

The fact that international crises bring additional guests to the island is not a new phenomenon. “Mallorca has always benefited in the past when international uncertainties increase,” says Remus. The island is considered particularly safe, is easily accessible and offers a high quality of life.

The current situation is also playing into the hands of politics on Mallorca. Because I’ve been trying for years Those responsible are increasing tourism to target wealthy guests – away from mass tourism and towards higher sales per visitor. A new flight connection could also play a role: a direct connection between Palma and Abu Dhabi is scheduled to start this year.

The strategy is apparently already having an effect. Luxury villas, fincas and properties in top locations have been among the most sought-after second homes in Europe for years. Prices in the luxury segment have risen continuously in recent years. The new geopolitical conflict could further accelerate this trend.

Wealthy international customers in particular would specifically switch to Mallorca in uncertain times. “In 2026, security will be the most valuable currency in the world,” said Remus.

Mallorca benefits – but the pressure is growing

Wealthy guests are initially an asset to the island’s economy. Luxury vacationers spend significantly more money than classic package tourists.

But Mallorca has been struggling with a tense real estate market for years. Apartments are no longer affordable for many locals, while international buyers are paying ever higher prices in sought-after locations. Many residents also complain about rising living costs and overburdened infrastructure. In recent years there have been repeated protests against overtourism and the real estate crisis.

If wealthy guests from all over the world move to Mallorca – and possibly also buy real estate – this pressure could increase further.

Mallorca could once again become the winner of an international crisis. The crucial question, however, is: How much more boom can the island actually handle?