Cyprus tourism sector reports significant decline due to Middle East conflict

Cyprus is experiencing a significant downturn in tourism during the spring of 2026, primarily attributed to the conflict in the Middle East. Christos Christou, Vice President of the Association of Cyprus Travel Agents (ACTTA), confirmed a 30% drop in tourist arrivals for March, compared to the 10% growth originally projected. The Ayia Napa region reports a 40% decline in occupancy for April, with many hotels delaying their opening due to weak booking numbers and cancellations. Industry stakeholders note that while cancellations have stabilized, new reservations are failing to replace lost volume, and some airlines have reduced summer flight capacity. The decline has been linked to negative perceptions of regional safety, particularly following reports of an Iranian drone strike near the British Bases at Akrotiri. Hotel occupancy during the Easter period remained low, between 25% and 45%, compared to 60-70% last year. Both public and private sectors are now calling for coordinated campaigns to reassure international visitors that Cyprus remains a safe destination. Meanwhile, PASYXE President Christos Angelides noted that tourism in other Mediterranean countries like Spain and Portugal is also suffering, though Cyprus has seen a more pronounced impact.