Despite tighter regulations in many of its tourist hotspots, Spain continues to dominate British buyers’ overseas property searches, securing the top spot on Rightmove’s 2025 list of most-searched international locations.
While Spain’s popularity shows no sign of waning, Dubai has rapidly climbed into third place, reflecting a growing desire among Britons for the emirate’s dynamic job market, tax-free living and attractive buyer incentives. The UAE has been actively targeting young professionals through property-purchase schemes and graduate-focused programmes, helping fuel interest in this modern sun-drenched hub.
Spain Still the Favourite — Even with New Restrictions
Several Spanish regions—including the Canary Islands, Málaga, Barcelona and Alicante—have recently introduced limits on new holiday rentals after local protests over rising rents and tourist behaviour. Combined with Spain’s 2023 decision to scrap its Golden Visa scheme, some speculated this might discourage overseas buyers.
However, British searches tell another story: the dream of a home on the Spanish coast remains as strong as ever.
France Holds Second Place
France retains its perennial appeal, coming in second. The promise of long lunches, lavender-scented countryside and a gentler pace of life continues to draw British buyers. A villa in Cannes was among the most-viewed properties on Rightmove, underlining the enduring charm of the French Riviera.
Portugal’s Algarve Holds Firm
In fourth place is the Algarve, followed by Portugal overall. According to João Richard Costa of the luxury development Ombria Algarve, the region attracts a wide international mix of buyers seeking a sunny climate, rich landscapes and a strong cultural offering. Others—particularly families and retirees—are motivated by concerns that the cost of living and taxation in their home countries are affecting their quality of life.
Italy Rising Among the Wealthy
Italy ranks sixth, but it is swiftly becoming a destination of choice for affluent expats.
Patricia Casaburi, CEO of Global Citizen Solutions, notes that Italy now appeals strongly to digital entrepreneurs and retirees thanks to its Elective Residency Visa, its Digital Nomad Visa, and an attractive flat tax of €100,000 on foreign income. Combined with family-friendly policies and timeless lifestyle appeal, Italy is increasingly seen as a sophisticated long-term base.
Affordable Alternatives and Sun-Seeking Favourites
Seventh on the list is Bulgaria, gaining popularity as a more affordable sunshine getaway.
Cyprus, particularly its coastal city Paphos, occupies eighth and ninth place respectively, while Alicante in Spain’s Costa Blanca completes the top ten.
Rightmove’s Most-Searched Overseas Locations (2025)
- Spain
- France
- Dubai
- Algarve
- Portugal
- Italy
- Bulgaria
- Cyprus
- Paphos
- Alicante
Image: Photo by Tenerife Photos and Images: Pexels
