Cyprus is countering security concerns related to the conflict in the Middle East, seeking to protect the upcoming summer tourism season.
“We are hundreds of kilometers away – it’s just that the map gives a different impression,” said Cyprus’ Deputy Tourism Minister Kostas Koumis. Euractiv.
The island was shocked in early March when a drone launched by Hezbollah targeted a British base – has been preserved since Cyprus gained independence in 1962.
Since then, the authorities have emphasized that Cyprus is not part of the conflict, aiming to limit the impact on tourism – one of the country’s largest sectors, accounting for up to 15% of GDP.
“Cyprus is not part of the problem, on the contrary, it acts as a pillar of peace and stability,” said the minister.
In 2025, the island welcome a record 4.5 million visitors, mainly from Great Britain, Israel and Poland.
As the sirens at British bases have stopped and air links have resumed, the sector has already taken a hit. Hotel cancellations reached 40% in March and 30% in April year-on-year, according to Cyprus Hotels Association director general Christos Angelides.
“We are not in a war zone – what needs to be restored is the normal situation on the ground, not the one portrayed by some news coverage and fake news,” he said.
Koumis said bookings are now showing signs of stabilization.
“After all, Cyprus has always been a very safe tourist destination and has consistently managed to remain unaffected by the geopolitical tensions in the Middle East,” he said.
However, he warned that the situation remains fluid.
“We are assessing the situation on a daily basis, in close contact with the tourism industry and the country’s strategic partners,” he said.
Authorities are expected to step up promotional campaigns in the coming months to limit losses compared to last year’s record season.
(cs)
