
Tourism in Cyprus hit a record high in 2024, with over 4 million people visiting the island. This milestone strengthened Cyprus’ standing as a leading travel destination.
Tourism hits new highs
In 2024, Cyprus welcomed 4,040,200 tourists, breaking its 2019 record of 3,976,777. Visitor numbers increased by 5.1% compared to 2023, reinforcing tourism as a key pillar of the Cypriot economy.
Deputy Minister of Tourism Kostas Koumis hailed the achievement as “a success that belongs to the entire tourism ecosystem.”
Tourism revenue is expected to surpass €3 billion, underscoring its crucial role in the economy.

Overcoming global challenges
Despite global challenges like economic uncertainty in Europe, a crisis in the Middle East, and ongoing aviation issues, Cyprus’ tourism sector thrived.
Koumis attributed this success to the combined efforts of the tourism industry and highlighted the need to address emerging challenges like climate change.
“We are committed to improving our tourism products and services,” Koumis stated, emphasizing plans to invest in education and innovation to ensure the sector’s sustainability.
Visitors by the numbers
British tourists led the way in December 2024, making up 23.7% of arrivals (31,501 visitors).
Israeli tourists followed at 17.4% (23,168), with travelers from Poland (9.4%), Greece (9%), and Germany (5.7%) completing the top five. This variety highlights Cyprus’ wide appeal.
Tourist arrivals in December hit a record 133,063, up 7.6% from December 2023. Nearly half (49.6%) came for holidays, 37.5% visited friends or family, and 12.7% traveled for business.
New travel dynamics for visitors, migrants
Cyprus’ thriving tourism sector attracts both short-term visitors and migrants seeking opportunities in the European Union (EU). As tourist numbers grow, the island’s infrastructure must adapt to handle the demand while maintaining service quality.
This increase also intersects with EU travel and migration policies, including the upcoming European Travel Information and Authorization System (ETIAS).
The ETIAS, launching soon, will require non-EU citizens from visa-exempt countries to register before entering Schengen-area countries. Cyprus’ rising popularity underscores the need for such policies to manage travel efficiently and ensure security.
For long-term migrants, the record visitor numbers may spark discussions about visa policies, particularly Schengen visas, as demand for mobility within the EU grows.
Cyprus’ success as a tourism destination could also position it as a gateway for migrants entering the EU, influencing both seasonal and long-term migration trends.

Shaping policy across EU borders
The tourism boom in Cyprus highlights the impact on immigration policies across the EU. A record-breaking year for Cyprus shows how regulated migration can help meet labor demands in sectors like hospitality.
As tourism grows, EU governments may consider aligning immigration policies with economic needs by offering work permits and residency options to address workforce shortages in tourism-dependent areas.
The rise in visitors to Cyprus also shows how EU nations can prepare for changing migration patterns during economic or political crises. Policies for integrating migrants could focus on balancing economic needs with sustainable growth.
For instance, Cyprus’ efforts to diversify its tourism markets could encourage other countries to use migration to support key industries and address demographic challenges.
Preparing for the future
As Cyprus marks a record-breaking year, officials are planning for the future. Efforts are underway to draw tourists from new markets, including the United States. Sustainability is also a priority, with plans to make cities like Nicosia leaders in green tourism.
The success of 2024 sets a high standard, but officials aim to build on this progress. By adopting new strategies and addressing challenges directly, Cyprus is prepared to remain a top travel destination.
A milestone worth celebrating
Cyprus’ historic achievement shows that resilience, adaptability, and teamwork can deliver outstanding results. The record-breaking year highlights the island’s global appeal and the vital role tourism plays in its future.