The Cyprus Department of Tourism has proposed a €59.4 million budget for 2027, with roughly 62% allocated to destination promotion and tourism product enrichment. This includes funding for promotional campaigns, attendance at tourism fairs, and incentive programs aimed at strengthening the island’s appeal to visitors.
Tourism Arrivals and Recovery Trends in 2026
Tourism arrivals in Cyprus declined by 5.6% during the first nine months of 2026 compared to the same period in 2025. This drop follows a sharper 17.9% decrease recorded during January to April 2026. However, arrivals in the first nine months of 2026 remained 4.1% above the equivalent period in 2024 and 8.5% higher than
in 2023. September 2026 marked the highest recorded number of tourist arrivals for the month in Cyprus’s history, reflecting a recovery phase in the sector.
Tourism Revenue Figures and Projections
Tourism revenue for the first seven months of 2026 fell by 7% compared to the same timeframe in 2025. Nevertheless, revenues were 9.2% and 13.8% higher than the respective periods in 2024 and 2023. Authorities project that if the rest of 2026 follows 2025’s pattern, the yearly decline in revenue will be limited to between 3% and 4%.
Crisis Impact, Government Response and Official Statements
Deputy Minister of Tourism Kostas Koumis described 2026 as a year during which Cyprus’s tourism industry faced
an unprecedented crisis caused by external factors. Tens of thousands of cancellations and booking freezes took place in March and April 2026, leading to significant disruptions. The government implemented measures to mitigate these impacts on the tourism sector. Koumis stated, “2026 will undoubtedly remain in the history and memory of those working in the sector as a year during which our country’s tourism industry was called upon to face an unprecedented crisis as a result of external factors.”
He added that the tourism sector has entered a recovery phase but emphasized the need for ongoing efforts to restore demand in
specific markets. Koumis cautioned that success in tourism cannot be assumed, noting, “I consider it very important to underline that success in tourism can never be taken for granted.” Looking ahead, he affirmed the government’s aim for tourism to continue generating benefits for Cyprus’s economy, tourism businesses, and local communities in 2027.
