Chief Scientist discusses collaboration with UAE in innovation and technology

by THEFUTURE.TEAM

September 16, 2024

Chief Scientist for Research, Innovation, and Technology Demetris Skourides attended a meeting at the Dubai Chamber recently, where the foundations were laid for collaboration, particularly in the areas of innovation and technology.

Skourides met with Hans Larsen from the Dubai Chamber of Digital Economy and George Partasides, Commercial Counsellor of the Cyprus Trade Centre in the UAE.

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The meeting laid the foundations for exciting collaborations, particularly in the areas of innovation and technology, according to a post on the Cyprus Trade Centre in Dubai’s LinkedIn page. “We discussed the upcoming participation of leading Cypriot companies at GITEX GLOBAL 2024 (October 14-18) in Dubai, where they will showcase their cutting-edge solutions, digital services and IT applications at Cyprus national pavilion,” it added.

“Together, we are opening new doors for Cypriot businesses to expand into the UAE and vice versa since Cyprus has a high-level success to European Funds.”

Cyprus is positioning itself as a gateway for research and innovation, which in turn provides UAE companies with seamless access to Europe’s dynamic digital ecosystem. “Through initiatives like the Cyprus Innovation Initiative, we aim to create mutual value by connecting our vibrant ecosystems, strengthening Cyprus’ presence on the global digital map,” the post said.

Following the success of this meeting and the fruitful exchange of ideas, the aim is to arrange further engagements, including a meeting with a high level UAE delegation and the Cyprus delegation during Expand North Star/GITEX in October.

“Looking forward to continuing this journey of deeper collaboration between our countries, where Cyprus can serve as a crucial link for the UAE to Europe,” the post concluded.

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Cyprus Hits Historic Tourism Peak As Overtourism Risks Mount

by THEFUTURE.TEAM

February 13, 2026

Record-Breaking Performance In Tourism

Cyprus’ tourism sector achieved unprecedented success in 2025 with record-breaking arrivals and revenues. According to Eurobank analyst Konstantinos Vrachimis, the island’s performance was underpinned by solid real income growth and enhanced market diversification.

Robust Growth In Arrivals And Revenues

Total tourist arrivals reached 4.5 million in 2025, rising 12.2% from 4 million in 2024, with momentum sustained through the final quarter. Tourism receipts for the January–November period climbed to €3.6 billion, marking a 15.3% year-on-year increase that exceeded inflation. The improvement was not driven by volume alone. Average expenditure per visitor increased by 4.6%, while daily spending rose by 9.2%, indicating stronger purchasing power and higher-value tourism activity.

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Economic Impact And Diversification Of Source Markets

The stronger performance translated into tangible gains for the broader services economy, lifting real tourism-related income and overall sector turnover. Demand patterns are also shifting. While the United Kingdom remains Cyprus’ largest source market, its relative share has moderated as arrivals from Israel, Germany, Italy, the Czech Republic, the Netherlands, Austria, and Poland have expanded. This gradual diversification reduces dependency on a single market and strengthens resilience against external shocks.

Enhanced Air Connectivity And Seasonal Dynamics

Air connectivity has improved markedly in 2025, with flight volumes expanding substantially compared to 2019. This expansion is driven by increased airline capacity, enhanced route coverage, and more frequent flights, supporting demand during shoulder seasons and reducing overreliance on peak-month flows. Seasonal patterns remain prominent, with arrivals building through the spring and peaking in summer, thereby bolstering employment, fiscal receipts, and corporate earnings across hospitality, transport, and retail sectors.

Structural Risks And Future Considerations

Despite strong headline figures, structural challenges remain. The European Commission’s EU Tourism Dashboard highlights tourism intensity, seasonality, and market concentration as key risk indicators. Cyprus records a high ratio of overnight stays relative to its resident population, signalling potential overtourism pressures. Continued reliance on a limited group of origin markets also exposes the sector to geopolitical uncertainty and sudden demand swings. Seasonal peaks place additional strain on infrastructure, housing availability, labour supply, and natural resources, particularly water.

Strategic Investment And Market Resilience

Vrachimis concludes that sustained growth will depend on targeted investment, product upgrading, and continued market diversification. Strengthening year-round offerings, improving infrastructure capacity, and promoting higher-value experiences can help balance demand while preserving long-term competitiveness. These measures are essential not only to manage overtourism risks but also to ensure tourism remains a stable pillar of Cyprus’ economic development.

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