Malaga has officially banned tourist horse-drawn carriages as of October 6, 2025, bringing the ban forward from the originally planned 2035 date. The city council made the decision due to concerns for the animals’ welfare and safety, as well as issues with urban hygiene and safety for both the animals and pedestrians.
The 25 remaining carriages have had their licenses revoked, with compensation being paid to the operators. The fate of the 61 horses is uncertain, but advocates are pushing for them to be rehomed or sent to sanctuaries.