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Record high tourist arrivals in August

Tourist arrivals set a new record in August, reaching 554,923, exceeding the corresponding arrivals of August 2019, the record year for Cypriot tourism, by 0.20%.

According to Cystat, from January to August 2024, tourist arrivals totaled 2,758,627 compared to 2,648,795 in the corresponding period of 2023, recording an increase of 4.1%.

Compared to the arrivals of tourists in August 2023, arrivals in August 2024 went up by 8.5%.

Arrivals from the United Kingdom were the main source of tourism for August 2024, with a share of 34.7% (192,424) of total arrivals, followed by Israel with 13.3% (74,032), Poland with 7.7% (42,650), Germany with 4.2% (23,068) and Sweden with 4.1% (22,508).

Returns of residents of Cyprus down 3.6%

Moreover, a total number of 192,756 residents of Cyprus returned from a trip abroad in August 2024 compared to 199,920 in the corresponding month last year, recording a decrease of 3.6%.

The main countries from which residents of Cyprus returned in August 2024 were Greece with a share of 39.1% (75,381), the United Kingdom with 6.6% (12,718), Russia with 4.4% (8,538) and Italy with 4.1% (7,926).

Cyprus Services Sector Shows Robust Performance In 2025 As Tourism, Digital Innovation, And Shipping Surge

The Employers and Industrialists Federation (OEV) reported growth across Cyprus’ services sector in 2025, with increases recorded in tourism, professional services and administrative activities. Data show continued expansion across multiple sub-sectors, reinforcing the role of services in economic output and employment.

Service Sector Leadership

Accommodation and food services grew by 9.5%, while administrative and support activities increased by 7.4%. Professional, scientific and technical activities rose by 4.6%, followed by information and communication at 4.3%. Transport and storage recorded growth of 2.8%, while real estate activity increased by 0.4%. These figures indicate broad-based expansion across service industries.

A Remarkable Tourism Surge

Tourist arrivals reached 4,534,073 in 2025, marking a 12.2% increase year-on-year. December arrivals totaled 156,959, up 18% compared with the same period a year earlier. Tourism continues to support revenue generation and seasonal demand across the economy. Growth in visitor numbers contributes to activity in hospitality and related sectors.

Driving Digital Transformation

OEV is supporting digital adoption through initiatives such as the DiGiNN Cyprus Digital Innovation Hub. The program focuses on improving business processes, skills development and technology integration. Additional efforts include the establishment of a Digital Transformation and Innovation Committee and international engagement through business missions. These actions support the adoption of digital tools across sectors.

Resilient Shipping Sector

Shipping accounted for about 7% of Cyprus’s GDP in 2025, remaining a key component of the economy. The Cyprus Registry recorded its highest tonnage in 20 years, with an increase of nearly 20%. Fleet growth strengthens Cyprus’ position within European Union shipping registries and global maritime markets. The sector continues to contribute to economic stability.

Strengthening The Economic Foundation

OEV is organizing conferences, workshops and exhibitions to support business development across sectors. These initiatives focus on improving operational practices and industry collaboration. Continued investment in services and digital infrastructure is expected to support economic performance.

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