Cyprus Tourism Sees More than Ten Percent Growth in Revenue, Driven by Strong Demand from the UK, Israel and Poland, Signaling its Long-Term Growth

Published on December 1, 2025

Tourism revenues continued to grow 10.1% year-on-year to September 2025, with Cyprus remaining one of the most popular destinations in the Mediterranean. Revenues from tourism reached €499.9 million in September 2025, an increase compared to €454.1 million during the same period in 2024, according to data from Cystat’s Passengers Survey. Such an increase in tourism inflows underlines the continued attraction of international visitors to Cyprus and the positive contribution that the tourism sector has played in the country’s economy.

This will lead to the continuous development of Cyprus’s economy due to its growth in tourism revenues during 2025. The increase in tourism revenue for the period between January and September 2025, which rose by 15.4% to €2.97 billion compared with the €2.58 billion recorded for the corresponding period of 2024, validates the ever-increasing role and contribution that the tourism industry plays in aiding the country’s economic recovery and ensuring long-term growth.

Strong Growth in Key Tourism Markets: The UK, Israel, and Poland Lead the Way

A significant portion of the tourism revenue increase in Cyprus comes from the country’s top international markets, including the United Kingdom, Israel, and Poland. The UK remains Cyprus’ largest source of tourism, with 31.4% of all visitors in September 2025 coming from this market. UK tourists, who spent an average of €115.12 per day, continue to be a vital component of Cyprus’ tourism sector, especially with affordable airfares and direct flight routes between major UK cities and Cyprus.

Israeli tourists, the second-largest market, accounted for 14% of the total arrivals in September 2025, with an average spend of €158.14 per day. This higher spending rate underscores the growing interest from the Israeli market in Cyprus’ cultural tourism, especially for beach holidays, historical sites, and luxury resorts.

Meanwhile, Poland has also emerged as a strong tourism market for Cyprus, with 7.9% of visitors coming from this Eastern European country. Polish tourists, who spent an average of €102.64 per day, represent an expanding market segment that increasingly seeks both affordable travel and high-quality tourism experiences. The rise in visitors from Poland reflects Cyprus’ growing appeal to travelers from Central and Eastern Europe, offering a diverse range of experiences that combine sun, sea, culture, and history.

Tourism Impact: A Key Driver of Local Economic Growth and Employment

The increase in tourism revenue has a direct economic impact on Cyprus’ local communities, particularly in sectors like hospitality, retail, transportation, and cultural services. As more international visitors travel to Cyprus, local businesses are seeing higher demand, creating new job opportunities and supporting economic development in the tourism sector.

In particular, hotel bookings, restaurant revenues, and tourism services in major cities such as Nicosia, Larnaca, Limassol, and Paphos, as well as rural areas such as the Troodos mountains and Akamas Peninsula, benefit from the growing number of international visitors. With continued investments in tourism infrastructure and digital tourism services, the sector is set to expand further, contributing to job creation and community empowerment.

The Future of Tourism in Cyprus: Sustainable Growth and Expanding Global Reach

Looking ahead, Cyprus’ tourism sector has tremendous potential for future growth. As global tourism demand continues to rise, Cyprus is well-positioned to attract even more international travelers, particularly those interested in luxury travel, cultural experiences, and eco-tourism. The island’s unique blend of natural beauty, historic sites, luxury resorts, and growing eco-tourism offerings will appeal to a broad spectrum of global tourists.

The government’s focus on sustainable tourism development—including initiatives to promote green tourism, preserve natural landscapes, and protect the island’s cultural heritage—ensures that Cyprus can meet the rising demand for sustainable travel while maintaining its reputation as a top-tier tourism destination. The continued development of eco-friendly accommodations, sustainable travel practices, and green transportation options will help secure Cyprus’ position as a sustainable tourism leader in Europe and beyond.

Strengthening Cyprus as a Year-Round Tourism Destination

Cyprus has long been known as a summer destination, but with the growth of cultural tourism, wellness tourism, and sports tourism, the island is increasingly becoming a year-round destination. The winter months, in particular, are seeing an increase in visitors seeking activities like skiing in the Troodos mountains, wellness retreats, and culinary experiences in Paphos and Limassol.

Cyprus’ ability to cater to diverse tourism segments, from luxury travelers and cultural explorers to eco-tourists and adventure seekers, ensures the island remains a compelling destination for year-round tourism. This adaptability will continue to drive growth in the coming years, helping Cyprus remain competitive in the global tourism market.

A Bright Future for Cyprus Tourism

In Cyprus, the continually growing tourism revenues reflect the greater interest in everything from beaches and historic sites, to luxury resorts and eco-tourism. With strong growth in tourist arrivals from markets like the UK, Israel, and Poland, the island is well-positioned to further grow its success in the global tourism sector.

While Cyprus focuses on sustainable tourism practices and the expansion of its tourism infrastructure, this island is set to continue on its trajectory as a leading Mediterranean destination. With a strong tourism economy, Cyprus is prepared for future growth, ensuring it remains the top destination for both luxury and eco-tourism travelers for years to come.