After years of negotiations between the UK, EU, Spain and Gibraltar, an ‘agreement in principle’ has been made following extensive discussion between all parties. The agreement sets the stage for a new era of mobility, investment and regional cohesion. For Alcaidesa, located just minutes from the Gibraltar border, the implications are appealing. With easier access, greater integration and renewed confidence in the area’s long-term future, the local tourism and property sectors are preparing for a transformation.
Seamless cross-border movement
One of the most immediate and visible outcomes of the treaty is the planned removal of land border controls at the Gibraltar–La Línea frontier. In their place will be controls at Gibraltar’s port and airport, similar to the model used by Eurostar. This means that travellers arriving by land will no longer face lengthy queues or sporadic delays, an issue that had become a nuisance for day-trippers and tourists post-Brexit.
For Alcaidesa, this is a vital improvement. Its position as one of the first resort communities beyond the Gibraltar border makes it uniquely placed to benefit from increased traffic, tourism and investment. Visitors will now be able to move easily between Gibraltar and the Spanish coast, creating a more natural and fluid flow of activity along this part of the Costa del Sol.
Increased tourism potential
Gibraltar is also seeing a steady rise in cruise ship arrivals, with nearly 240 calls expected in 2025. The Gibraltar Port Authority has been actively encouraging cruise tourism, bringing hundreds of thousands of passengers into Gibraltar by sea and air, a further boost for Alcaidesa and surrounding areas as these visitors gain smoother onward access into Spain.
Until now, crossing complications have limited the spillover effect into surrounding areas such as Alcaidesa, San Roque and Sotogrande. With those barriers removed, tourism businesses are likely to see increased footfall from both short-term visitors and longer-stay travellers looking to explore the broader region.
For the hospitality sector in Alcaidesa, this opens up opportunities to serve a wider, more mobile audience. Golf resorts, beachfront restaurants, boutique hotels and short-term rentals can all expect greater visibility and occupancy, particularly from those using Gibraltar as a transport hub.
It has been suggested that Gibraltar Airport will expand its services not only to include the current UK flights but also to cover flights to the European Union. Since it is only a 20-minute drive from Alcaidesa, this development is eagerly anticipated, as if it proceeds, it would attract more visitors to the region and offer easier access for residents and visitors of Alcaidesa compared to the current air routes via Málaga and Jerez.
Economic alignment and investment confidence
The treaty also lays the groundwork for further economic integration. Future alignment in customs procedures and indirect taxation is expected to reduce inconsistencies between Gibraltar and Spain, thereby easing trade and supply chains across various sectors, including hospitality, retail, and services. This stability sends a clear signal to investors that the region is moving toward greater coherence and long-term economic health.
For property developers and owners, the implications are equally promising. Residential and resort communities such as those developed by One Eden stand to benefit from heightened demand, particularly from international buyers seeking a well-connected base in the area. Improved infrastructure, greater cross-border cooperation and the allure of year-round access to both Gibraltar and the Costa del Sol give Alcaidesa a strategic advantage in the premium lifestyle market.
A new tourism identity
Perhaps most exciting is the chance to build a stronger, more integrated tourism identity for the region. Alcaidesa is no longer just ‘near Gibraltar’. It can now be considered part of a shared coastal experience that blends the heritage, nature and lifestyle of both territories. Visitors might spend the morning exploring the historical sites and nature reserves of Gibraltar, followed by an afternoon on Alcaidesa’s beaches or golf courses and dinner overlooking the Mediterranean.
This potential for shared experiences paves the way for new types of itineraries, events and tourism offerings. From collaborative cultural festivals to joint eco-tourism initiatives and integrated resort packages, Alcaidesa is ideally placed to serve as a gateway between Gibraltar and the rest of southern Spain.
Looking ahead
Although legal ratification and phased implementation are still required, the Gibraltar Treaty signals a fundamental shift. It removes long-standing practical obstacles while strengthening the sense of opportunity and connection across the border. For Alcaidesa, the message is clear: now is the time to prepare for growth.
With exceptional golf courses, uninterrupted sea views and a master-planned approach to sustainable resort living, Alcaidesa is well-positioned to meet this moment. The community already attracts discerning travellers and second-home buyers in search of tranquillity, quality and connectivity. The new treaty only enhances that appeal.
Explore the future of coastal living
To find out more about One Eden’s resort communities and new releases at Serenity and Infinity Alcaidesa, contact our team to arrange a private visit or request a brochure. The future of Costa–Gibraltar living starts here.
