Despite ongoing conflicts in Gaza and Ukraine, Cyprus expects to welcome a steady flow of tourists in 2024, according to hotel industry leaders.
Arrivals to Remain Stable Despite Uncertainties
“The number of foreign visitors should remain very similar, if not higher, than 2023,” said Thanos Michaelides, president of the Cyprus Hotel Association (Pasyxe).
He cautioned, however, that all predictions depend on global events that can rapidly change.
The conflict between Israel and Palestine has direct impacts on Cyprus’ second-largest tourism market.
“We cannot really predict Israeli visitor numbers this year due to geopolitics,” Michaelides said.
At the same time, many European countries like France, Germany, and Poland sent growing numbers of tourists in 2023. These trends are expected to continue.
Visitors from Russia remain uncertain due to continuing European Union (EU) sanctions over Ukraine.
“As long as sanctions remain, we foresee no change for Russian tourists,” Michaelides said.
Despite losing Russian and Ukrainian visitors, Cyprus welcomed over 3.7 million tourists from January to November 2023 — a 20.4% increase over 2022.
Revenues topped €2.8 billion, jumping 22.6% year-over-year.
Extending Season and Markets Remain Key
The tourism chief stressed the importance of diversifying markets and lengthening the visitor season.
Paphos saw exceptional tourist activity in November 2023, for example.
“The best outcome for 2024 is matching 2023’s success. We expect to replace lost Israeli tourists with gains elsewhere,” he said.
Ongoing concerns include flight insurance costs, which should be clarified by February.
However, the island nation has shown its resilience, absorbing a 25% drop in Russian and Ukrainian tourists while still exceeding 2019 arrival levels.
“As conflicts continue, the coming year remains unpredictable,” Michaelides said. “But current trends point toward stability or moderate growth for Cyprus tourism in 2024.”
ETIAS Waivers Still Set for 2025 Launch
The conflict does not impact plans for the upcoming European Travel Information and Authorization System (ETIAS), set to launch in May 2025.
Once implemented, the ETIAS will require travelers from over 60 countries to obtain special waivers before visiting EU nations.
Cyprus remains on track to join the Schengen Area in 2025 as well.
These developments should facilitate tourism and immigration from both EU and non-EU regions.
ETIAS waivers will enable more long-term stays for non-EU families, investors, digital nomads, and students.
EU Policy Adjustments Remain Possible
Broader EU immigration policies have not changed due to geopolitical conflicts.
However, member states retain power to adjust restrictions based on security risks and economic needs.
Cyprus continues pushing for more flexibility regarding non-EU students and high-skilled talent.
As an island economy dependent on tourism, immigration policy holds major implications.
EU officials may revisit regulations if existing rules curb post-pandemic growth.
Tourism Remains Bedrock of Cyprus Economy
Despite uncertainties posed by conflict and sanctions, Cyprus continues to rely on tourism as an economic foundation.
If 2024 matches or exceeds the banner results of this past year, it will further cement this vital sector.
The island's travel industry has shown durable strength with nimble pivoting to new markets and savvy responses to global shocks.
As the new year unfolds, challenges surely loom ahead.
However, Cyprus tourism has demonstrated an ability to roll with the punches while still landing on its feet.
This flexibility and resilience will remain indispensable tools for weathering future storms.