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Cyprus Airports Break Passenger Traffic Records in 2024

Cyprus has recorded an all-time high in passenger traffic for 2024, with figures surpassing last year’s total by 30 November. The Ministry of Transport, Communications and Works announced that passenger volume is projected to grow by 5% compared to 2023, marking a significant milestone for the country’s aviation sector.

Transport Minister Alexis Vafeadis expressed his satisfaction with the remarkable results, highlighting the broader economic and tourism benefits. 

Unprecedented Passenger Numbers for November

November 2024 alone saw a record-breaking 715,231 passengers pass through Larnaca and Paphos airports — a 7.01% increase from the same month in 2023. This achievement represents the highest-ever performance for November.

From January to November 2024, passenger volume also hit a historic peak, registering a 5% increase year-on-year. Larnaca Airport experienced a 7.39% rise in passenger numbers, while Paphos Airport saw a 6.05% increase. Key source markets included the United Kingdom, Greece, Poland, Israel, and Germany. Air traffic at both airports grew by 4.89%, with a total of 6,309 flights recorded.

Growing Demand Presents New Challenges

The surge in passenger numbers presents what the Ministry described as a “pleasant problem” — managing the growing demand until necessary infrastructure investments are completed. Plans are underway to expand airport facilities to better accommodate the increased traffic.

Minister Vafeadis acknowledged the collective effort behind the success, extending gratitude to his team and key stakeholders, including the Deputy Ministry of Tourism and Hermes Airports Ltd. Their coordinated efforts to expand the country’s airline network and introduce new routes played a decisive role in achieving this growth.

“The addition of new airlines and routes has been a game-changer,” the Ministry noted, emphasizing the role of enhanced connectivity in driving passenger traffic growth.

With demand on the rise and investments in airport infrastructure in progress, Cyprus is well-positioned to sustain its role as a key regional aviation hub, further bolstering its economy and tourism sector.

UAE Emerges As One Of The Most Trusting Nations In 2025

The UAE continues to be one of the most trusted countries in the world, according to the 2025 Edelman Trust Barometer. While many nations struggle with declining trust due to misinformation and economic instability, the UAE remains a beacon of confidence, achieving high trust levels in both government and business institutions.

Global Trust Rankings

The report highlights a stark divide in trust levels across the world. Five of the ten largest global economies rank among the least trusting nations, with Japan at 37%, Germany at 41%, the UK at 43%, the U.S. at 47%, and France at 48%. Meanwhile, countries like China (77%), Indonesia (76%), India (75%), and the UAE (72%) continue to lead the Trust Index.

The UAE was first included in the Edelman Trust Barometer in 2010 and has consistently ranked among the top nations. Citizens view the country’s leadership and institutions as both competent and ethical, reinforcing its stability.

UAE Government: A Global Trust Leader

With 82% trust among respondents, the UAE government is the most trusted institution in the country and one of the highest-ranked globally. This far exceeds the global average of 52%.

Trust in business is also strong, with 76% of UAE respondents believing that businesses act responsibly, compared to the global average of 62%. Additionally, societal trust remains high, with teachers (85%) and citizens (79%) viewed as highly trustworthy.

Trust And Optimism In The UAE

The report links high trust levels to optimism about the future. In the UAE, 60% of respondents believe the next generation will be better off, significantly higher than the global average of 36%.

“The UAE has demonstrated that when institutions act with integrity and competence, trust flourishes. Where trust thrives, optimism overcomes uncertainty, paving the way for a brighter future,” said Omar Qirem, CEO of Edelman Middle East.

Global Trust Crisis And UAE’s Stability

While trust remains strong in the UAE, the global landscape presents a different picture. Widespread concerns over misinformation, inequality, and economic instability have led to declining trust worldwide. According to the report, 63% of individuals find it increasingly difficult to distinguish between credible sources and deceptive information. Additionally, two-thirds believe the wealthy do not contribute their fair share in taxes.

Despite these global challenges, the UAE stands out as a nation where trust in institutions and optimism for the future remain resilient, reinforcing its position as a leader in global stability and confidence.

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