Ibiza's Nightlife Health Crisis: Emergency Services Overwhelmed by Drug-Related Incidents

Ibiza, famed for its nightlife, is facing a crisis in emergency services as increasing drug-related incidents from tourists strain its ambulance system. Health workers warn of collapse as over a quarter of calls during peak summer come from nightclubs, raising alarm over the impact of overtourism.

Ibiza, the celebrated party destination in Spain, is currently grappling with a significant crisis in its healthcare system as the influx of tourists has resulted in an alarming rise in drug-related incidents. Ambulance services, already stretched thin, are receiving an overwhelming number of emergency calls from nightclubs, prompting concerns from health workers about the potential collapse of this vital support system.

Pablo Roig, a dedicated ambulance technician, shared his experiences navigating through congested streets and bustling beaches, frequently responding to incidents at nightclubs. “There are days when we’re so busy you can barely even stop to eat or have a coffee,” he elaborated, highlighting the severe pressure his team faces. Local health technicians, alarmed by the trend, estimate that during the high tourist season, more than 25% of ambulance calls are attributed to nightlife venues, with many incidents involving international visitors.

José Manuel Maroto, a representative from the technicians' union, confirmed that some clubs see paramedics multiple times in a single night. "We have to go to pick up an intoxicated patient every day,” he lamented, demonstrating the repeated strain on emergency resources.

The situation in Ibiza is not an isolated case but a part of a broader pattern observed in Spain, Italy, and Portugal, where growing tourist numbers are leading to rising tensions between locals and visitors. The communities are expressing their grievances through anti-tourism protests, arguing that the surge in travelers is overburdening public services and inflating living costs.

As Ibiza continues to attract millions of visitors—3.3 million in the last year alone—the ongoing health crisis underscores the urgent need for measures to balance tourism and local infrastructure. Without significant action, the very foundation of Ibiza’s appeal could be jeopardized as local residents and emergency services struggle to cope with the relentless demands of a thriving nightlife.