Larnaca beach in Cyprus. (archive image)Image: AP
Lebanon and Israel are not far away: Because of the Middle East crisis, the government and hoteliers in Cyprus are worried about the island’s image. Recently, cancellations have increased.
March 26, 2026, 05:08March 26, 2026, 05:39
In view of the ongoing crisis in the Middle East, the tourism industry in the EU island republic of Cyprus is looking to the coming months with growing concern. Tourism Minister Kostas Koumis emphasized on the Cypriot Radio (RIK) that the current focus was on specifically strengthening the island’s image and responding to changing market conditions.
Cyprus is the EU state that is geographically closest to the crisis region in the Middle East. The island in the eastern Mediterranean is located around 150 to 250 kilometers from Lebanon and Israel. Last reported Cypriot mediathat booking cancellations by tourists have increased significantly not only for March and April, but also for May.
Security situation puts pressure on tourism
Recent security incidents have caused additional uncertainty: On the night of March 2nd, an Iranian-made drone hit the British air base RAF Akrotiri near Limassol and caused minor damage. Such news is “poison for the tourism industry,” said a hotelier in the capital Nicosia.
European markets in focus
The focus is particularly on maintaining the European markets, which make up the majority of visitors. As a result of the war in the Middle East, important markets have collapsed, including Israel and several states on the Arabian Peninsula. The greater challenge, however, is the growing reluctance of European holidaymakers as a whole, explained the minister. Rising flight prices are also a concern for industry representatives. (t-online/dpa/con)