AVP parliamentarian and Chair of the Tourism Committee, Ms. Jennifer Arends-Reyes, has expressed concern about the rapid and unregulated growth of the short-term vacation rental (STVR) sector, commonly known as Airbnb and other types of short-term rentals. According to the parliamentarian, Aruba is experiencing a steady increase in the number of properties used for tourist rentals, without the necessary legal regulation, oversight, and transparency to accompany this development.
Between 2018 and 2024, official statistics show that accommodations booked through platforms such as Airbnb increased by 71%, while hotel stays decreased by 2% and timeshare stays by 13%. This trend reflects a clear shift in tourist preferences, but also creates growing pressure on the local community, on housing availability, and on the traditional hotel sector, which makes significant efforts to comply with all regulations and taxes.
Organizations such as AHATA and other tourism entities have already warned that the lack of regulation creates unfair competition. Many STVR properties do not pay the required taxes or meet safety, hygiene, and zoning standards, putting both tourists and neighborhoods at risk. Moreover, in many residential areas, the growing presence of Airbnb-type rentals is changing the neighborhood dynamic and making it increasingly difficult for locals to find affordable housing to rent or buy.
Undoubtedly, the short-term rental sector can remain a source of income for many Aruban families, but its growth cannot continue unchecked and without protection of the public interest. According to Arends-Reyes, the current situation calls for action and a regulatory policy that promotes transparency, sustainability, and a more balanced development of tourism.
The AVP representative submitted a motion on August 25, 2025, calling on the government to take concrete measures to regulate the sector. The motion calls for fair competition between STVRs and traditional hotels, proper tax collection, and compliance with safety, quality, and control standards.
“Aruba cannot allow tourism to continue developing in an unbalanced way,” concluded Arends-Reyes. “This is a matter of sustainability, social justice, and respect for our community.”
Press release: AVP