Cyprus Shifts Focus to Sustainable Tourism Amid Climate Change Threats

Published on November 28, 2025

Cyprus is taking calculated steps to protect the future of its travel and tourism industry as the effects of climate change become more pronounced. As they confront the biggest challenge of climate change, the nation’s tourism authorities are placing a high priority on sustainability and competitiveness. Kostas Koumis, Deputy Minister of Tourism, emphasized the importance of sustainability in ensuring Cyprus’ tourism future while outlining the pressing need to address climate risks in tourism.

In order to address the issues of climate change, economic resilience, and global competitiveness, the Deputy Ministry of Tourism has already set its sights on important projects within the European Tourism Agenda 2030. Cyprus is incorporating social inclusion, digital transformation, green initiatives, and a revised regulatory framework into its tourism strategy.

The Five Pillars of European Tourism Agenda 2030

Cyprus’ tourism transformation hinges on a five-pillar approach laid out in the European Tourism Agenda 2030. These pillars, essential to advancing sustainable tourism, include:

1. Green Transition: Efforts to promote environmental sustainability through eco-friendly tourism practices.
2. Digital Transition: Integrating digital technologies to enhance the tourist experience and improve operational efficiency.
3. Building Resilience: Strengthening tourism businesses and local communities against global disruptions, including climate change.
4. Inclusion of All Social Groups: Ensuring tourism is accessible and inclusive for all demographics, including marginalized groups.
5. Education and Skilling: Focusing on skilling, upskilling, and reskilling workers within the tourism sector to adapt to new challenges and opportunities.

Through this framework, Cyprus aims to foster a sustainable tourism model that balances growth with environmental and social responsibility. As part of its broader recovery plan, the country has already secured funding for local businesses and communities, with expectations that the total allocation will exceed €20 million by the conclusion of the initiative.

A Financial Commitment to Sustainable Tourism

The Cyprus government is channelling significant funds into the tourism sector, particularly through the European Union’s Recovery and Resilience Mechanism. According to Koumis, over €20 million has been earmarked for this initiative, directly benefiting local communities, businesses, and the tourism sector. The funds are designed to help local entrepreneurs adopt green practices and enable the tourism sector to become more resilient to external pressures, such as climate change.

The government’s investment in these areas aligns with a broader objective to promote sustainable and responsible tourism that will continue to provide benefits to Cyprus’ tourism industry in the long term. Local communities are at the heart of this transformation, with a focus on enhancing the quality of visitor experiences and improving business operations to meet global sustainability standards.

Cyprus’ Position in the Global Tourism Market

As global travel trends evolve, Cyprus’ tourism strategy aligns with growing demands for sustainability and destination resilience. According to a recent presentation by Google Account Manager Thanos Papageorgiou, global travel is expected to exceed 2.4 billion trips by 2040, representing a one-billion-trip increase from 2019 levels. In this rapidly changing landscape, Cyprus is positioning itself as a competitive, sustainable, and attractive destination for travelers worldwide.

The Middle East, in particular, is emerging as a key tourism hub, with Cyprus listed as one of the top destinations within this growing region. Research by Deloitte highlights the rapid growth of the New Middle East as a major travel market, with Cyprus at the forefront. This is reflected in the region’s emerging tourism clusters, which are expected to expand at a faster rate than traditional European or Asia-Pacific destinations.

The Growing Importance of Sustainable Tourism

As tourism growth becomes more focused on quality over quantity, sustainable practices are no longer optional but essential for long-term success. Akis Vavlitis, President of the Cyprus Tourism Enterprises Association (STEK), emphasized that sustainable tourism is not just a trend but an absolute necessity for the future. The shift from mass tourism to a more sustainable model ensures the protection of natural resources and the preservation of cultural heritage for future generations.

The challenges posed by climate change require urgent action, and Cyprus is committed to implementing the changes necessary for a sustainable and resilient tourism sector. This focus on sustainability is not only about reducing environmental impacts but also about ensuring that Cyprus remains competitive on the global tourism stage, offering travelers an authentic, eco-friendly, and memorable experience.

Future Travel Trends and Cyprus’ Tourism Strategy

As the global tourism landscape diversifies, Cyprus remains a key player in the Mediterranean. Deloitte’s research identifies the Mediterranean region, Southeast Asia, the Middle East, and the Caribbean as the top tourism clusters for the coming decades. The Mediterranean, including Cyprus, is expected to continue attracting large numbers of tourists, while Southeast Asia and the Middle East are emerging as high-growth areas.

Cyprus is embracing this shift by focusing on sustainable tourism practices that appeal to both environmentally conscious travelers and those seeking authentic cultural experiences. By 2040, travel markets will be concentrated around just five major regions, with Cyprus well-positioned to benefit from this shift.

Bank Support for Sustainable Tourism Projects

In addition to government initiatives, financial institutions are stepping in to support sustainable tourism ventures. Eurobank has expressed its willingness to fund projects that improve business quality and sustainability within the tourism sector. The bank is set to play a crucial role in financing sustainable tourism proposals that will help elevate the quality of Cyprus’ tourism products.

Furthermore, Maria Kouroupi of Hermes Airports highlighted the growing pressure on the aviation industry due to increasing taxes on air travel. This, she noted, will likely contribute to higher travel costs, making it all the more critical for destinations like Cyprus to implement sustainable strategies that can offset these economic pressures.

Cyprus’ Path Forward

Cyprus is dedicated to navigating the tourism industry’s future by incorporating sustainability into all facets of the industry. Cyprus wants to set an example for sustainable tourism in the Mediterranean and beyond by emphasizing social inclusion, digital innovation, and environmental responsibility. Cyprus is positioned as a destination prepared to face the challenges of the future thanks to ongoing investment in local businesses and communities as well as a strategic shift towards resilience and competitiveness.

By working together, Cyprus is not only safeguarding its tourism sector from the dangers of climate change but also making sure that it will continue to be a thriving and alluring travel destination for future generations.