Cyprus Real Estate Market Surpasses €2 Billion in Transactions Amid Global Challenges

by THEFUTURE.TEAM

November 26, 2024

The Cyprus real estate market has demonstrated remarkable resilience, recording €2 billion in transactions by mid-2024, according to a recent report by Delfi Partners & Company. Despite global economic uncertainty, the sector remains a pillar of stability, bolstered by robust local activity and a steadying inflation rate.

“Strong domestic engagement and stabilizing economic factors have enabled the market to adapt and thrive, even in the face of broader challenges,” the report highlighted.

Follow THE FUTURE on LinkedIn, Facebook, Instagram, X and Telegram

A notable indicator of the sector’s strength is the 32.5% year-on-year surge in building permits during the first half of 2024, reflecting a vibrant development landscape. However, delays stemming from recent municipal reforms are expected to temper growth in the latter half of the year, potentially slowing the approval of new permits.

Real estate sales to local buyers saw a 13% increase from January to September 2024 compared to the same period in 2023. This uptick in domestic activity helped offset a 13.4% decline in sales to international buyers, attributed to ongoing geopolitical tensions and global economic uncertainties.

Despite the drop, international investors still made up 44% of total real estate sales, underscoring Cyprus’ enduring appeal as a prime investment hub.

“The market is shifting, with local buyers playing a more prominent role while international interest, though diminished, remains significant,” said Michalis Loizou of Delfi Partners & Company. “This evolution highlights the adaptability of Cyprus’ real estate sector, which continues to present opportunities despite global headwinds.”

The report also noted that by mid-2024, transaction values had exceeded pre-pandemic levels, with the average property deal reaching €340,790—higher than in 2019.

Geographically, Limassol maintained its lead as the busiest district for real estate activity, contributing 32% of total sales. It was followed by Nicosia with 22% and Larnaca with 21%.

Looking ahead, Delfi Partners projected continued growth for the Cypriot economy, aided by stable inflation and potential interest rate cuts. “With these factors in play, along with the dynamic real estate sector, Cyprus remains an attractive destination for investors seeking stability and growth in a competitive market,” the report concluded.

The Future Forbes Realty Global Properties

EU Adopts New Package Travel Rules With 14-Day Refund Requirement

by THEFUTURE.TEAM

April 3, 2026

The Council of the European Union adopted updated rules on package travel, introducing stricter requirements for refunds, transparency and consumer protection across member states. Updated provisions revise the existing directive and define obligations for travel providers offering bundled services such as flights, accommodation and transfers.

Clarifying The Package Travel Directive

The updated directive clarifies the definition of package travel and excludes certain linked travel arrangements from its scope. Coverage applies to services sold as a single product, including combinations of transport, accommodation and additional services. This revision standardizes how travel products are classified and clarifies rights and obligations for both providers and consumers at the point of purchase.

Follow THE FUTURE on LinkedIn, Facebook, Instagram, X and Telegram

Enhancing Transparency And Consumer Rights

New rules require providers to disclose key information before and during travel, including payment terms, visa requirements, accessibility conditions and cancellation policies. These disclosures aim to reduce disputes and improve consumer awareness. Defined refund timelines include a 14-day period for cancellations due to extraordinary circumstances and up to six months in cases of organiser insolvency. The measures address gaps identified in earlier versions of the directive.

Ensuring Accountability And Trust In Travel Services

Organisers must implement complaint-handling systems and provide clear information on insolvency protection under the updated framework. These provisions aim to improve accountability across the travel sector. Previous disruptions, including the collapse of Thomas Cook and travel restrictions during COVID-19, exposed weaknesses in refund processes and consumer protection. Updated rules respond to those issues.

Implications For Cyprus And The Broader Industry

Tourism accounts for approximately 14% of Cyprus’s GDP, with package travel playing a central role in visitor flows. Major operators such as TUI and Jet2 provide structured travel offerings that support demand. Such operators contribute to revenue stability and help extend the tourism season by securing transport and accommodation in advance. Greater regulatory clarity may support continued sector growth.

A Model For Future Consumer Protection

Clearer rules on vouchers, refunds and insolvency protection now apply across the European Union. These measures aim to reduce consumer risk in cross-border travel. Implementation across member states will determine the impact on both consumers and travel providers. The framework may influence future regulatory approaches in the sector.

Breaking news