The Cabinet of Ministers of Cyprus has approved a new tourism development strategy. According to the plan, the island aims to host around 5 million visitors annually by 2035. The main goal is to establish Cyprus as a year-round destination and enhance the quality and convenience of tourism services.
In 2025, the country welcomed 4.5 million foreign tourists, meaning that over the next decade, the tourist flow is expected to increase by 500,000 visitors.
Tourism Revenues Could Grow by €1.37 Billion
Authorities plan to raise the average daily spending of tourists—from €80 to €85 in winter and from €96 to €106 in summer. If achieved, tourism revenues could increase from €3.21 billion in 2024 to €4.58 billion by 2035.
Most Promising Tourism Segments
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Travelers over 50 — this rapidly growing global segment tends to travel more frequently and spend more.
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Family tourism — families account for roughly 30% of the global travel market.
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Multi-country trips — Cyprus plans to develop joint travel routes with neighboring countries, particularly for tourists from distant regions.
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Domestic tourism — expanding rural and mountain tourism will create more options for locals and encourage internal travel.
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Long-term stays — the island’s mild climate attracts visitors for extended stays during the winter months.
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Business + leisure (bleisure) — the trend of combining remote work with vacation is growing, and Cyprus aims to attract more of these travelers.
Where Tourists Will Come From
The strategy divides target markets into four categories:
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Stable markets — the UK remains the largest source of tourists, providing about 30% of the total.
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Markets with steady growth — Poland, Germany, Israel, France, and Northern European countries.
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High-potential markets — Benelux countries, Romania, Switzerland, Austria, Greece, Czech Republic, Bulgaria, and other European nations.
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Potential markets — the USA, China, India, Australia, Canada, Ireland, Egypt, Lebanon, UAE, Lithuania, Slovakia, Belarus, Iran, Malta, Jordan, Italy, Latvia, Spain, Portugal, South Africa, Korea, and several Middle Eastern countries. Growth from these markets will depend on expanded flight connections and targeted marketing campaigns.
Digitalization and Air Connectivity
The strategy emphasizes the adoption of digital technologies, modernization of services, and the development of a “smart tourism destination” concept. Special focus is placed on launching direct flights from major and distant markets, particularly the USA, India, and China.
Pic credit:ekathimerini