The Cyprus Tourism Department has submitted a €59.4 million budget for 2027, with approximately 62% earmarked for destination promotion and enhancement of the tourism product, including participation in tourism fairs and incentive programs. This budget aims to support the consolidation of sector recovery following disruptions in 2026.
Tourism Arrivals and Revenue Trends in 2026
Tourism arrivals to Cyprus decreased by 5.6% during the first nine months of 2026 compared to the same period in 2025, reflecting a significant recovery from an earlier 17.9% decline recorded in the first four months of the year. Arrival numbers for January to September 2026 were 4.1% higher than in 2024 and
8.5% higher than in 2023. September 2026 marked a record high for tourist arrivals in that month.
In terms of revenue, data through July 2026 indicated a 7% decline compared to the same period in 2025. However, tourism revenue for the first seven months of 2026 exceeded that of 2024 by 9.2% and 2023 by 13.8%. Projections based on 2025 trends suggest a full-year revenue drop of 3-4%, which the Deputy Minister termed “a very satisfactory performance” under the current conditions.
Impact of the 2026 Crisis and Booking Disruptions
Deputy Minister of Tourism Kostas Koumis described 2026 as a year of unprecedented challenge for Cyprus’ tourism sector due
to external factors. During March and April 2026, tens of thousands of cancellations occurred, and bookings slowed dramatically, with some periods witnessing near total booking freezes for both immediate and future travel.
The government responded with interventions to mitigate these impacts, details of which were presented during the budget briefing to the House finance committee. The crisis exposed the sector’s vulnerability to external global developments.
Deputy Minister Koumis Comments on Recovery and Future Plans
Kostas 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 noted the current recovery phase, emphasising that “success in tourism can never be taken for granted” and highlighted the government’s ongoing commitment to support the sector.
Koumis added, “We are continuing with the aim of ensuring that tourism continues in 2027 to generate benefits for our country’s economy, tourism businesses and, certainly, local communities.” The 2027 budget reflects this approach by prioritizing destination promotion and tourism product development.
