In the industrial zone of Humanes near Madrid, music blares every night—this is where Fabrik, one of the capital’s most famous clubs, is located. Long considered a bastion of techno, the venue is now charting a new course. The management has decided to draw inspiration from the Ibiza atmosphere to attract an older and more affluent crowd. The new general director, Luis Román López, just 29 years old, is confident: it’s time to move away from the ‘outskirts club’ image and open the doors to new guests.
Fabrik isn’t the only club embracing change. In recent months, several popular Madrid clubs have started to revamp their concepts to align with commercial trends. Inspired by Ibiza’s luxury and glamour, they are targeting a more sophisticated clientele. However, this doesn’t always sit well with regulars. On Saturday nights, hundreds gather in the Fabrik parking lot—listening to music from open car trunks, socializing, and creating their own vibe, distinct from the upscale parties inside.
Carla Labrador and her friends worry that these new trends might push out their familiar way of partying. “Fabrik has its own crowd, people who like to party the way they’re used to. If you want Ibiza, go to Ibiza,” Carla says. Her friend Patricia Seijas agrees: “Some people don’t need elite parties, simple fun and socializing mean more to them.”
New formats and broader audiences
The club’s management assures that classic techno parties are here to stay. Fabrik is becoming a multi-format venue, now hosting new events aimed at a more discerning crowd. According to López, the club has strengthened security and expanded the number of VIP areas, but has not reduced general admission nor raised ticket prices. The music program has also changed: you’ll hear not only techno, but also house, tech house, and reggaeton—softer and more popular genres.
Owners of other Madrid clubs admit that electronic and urban music are now in vogue. For instance, Jowke in Alcorcón feels more like an oasis with palm trees and a pool than a typical nightclub. Club manager Rafa Muñoz de la Cámara believes Ibiza’s influence is obvious, but says he has no intention of competing with the island. “They’re different worlds,” he notes. In his view, Ibiza’s high prices are convincing many to stay in Madrid and spend their money here.
Generational shift and new rules
In March 2025, Madrid’s nightlife scene was rocked by the news that the legendary club Sala Barco, long a hub for the city’s jazz community, would be closing. Yet after eight months, the venue reopened under the name Barco Sound House—now featuring only electronic music, with entry restricted to guests over 25. It’s another example of how clubs in the capital are exploring new formats and audiences.
At the same time, industry insiders insist that young people remain the main driving force of nightlife. They say that despite the rise of VIP sections and exclusive parties, most patrons are still young people with average incomes. Clubs have to adapt to stay in line with global trends, but mass appeal and accessibility remain crucial.
The Influence of Ibiza and Local Features
Not everyone is convinced that the Ibiza style has taken firm root in Madrid. Some believe the capital has long developed its own approach to nightlife and doesn’t need to copy foreign models. Madrid stands out for its diversity: the city offers clubs for every taste and any crowd. Nevertheless, many promoters closely follow what’s happening in Ibiza and invite DJs from the island to perform in the capital.
Luis Roman Lopez notes that Madrid is one of the best cities for nightlife, but Ibiza’s experience helps to spark new ideas. In recent years, not only nighttime but also daytime formats like tardeo and brunch have gained popularity in the capital. These events attract those who don’t want to party until dawn but seek new experiences. After the pandemic, such alternatives have become especially sought after.
Diversity and New Opportunities
Today, Madrid’s clubs are offering an increasing variety of options for different audiences. Some focus on luxury and exclusivity, while others maintain a more laid-back atmosphere. In any case, venue owners agree on one thing: the key is to keep evolving and constantly expand their range of offerings. Madrid’s nightlife is becoming ever more diverse, and the competition among clubs only fuels the public’s interest.
