Cyprus is witnessing a remarkable surge in Israeli tourists, with the country now firmly established as Cyprus’ second-largest market. This new milestone comes after a series of fruitful discussions between Deputy Minister of Tourism Kostas Koumis and Israeli Tourism Minister Haim Katz during the International Tourism Fair IMTM in Israel.
Aiming for Winter Arrivals
During their meetings, the focus was on boosting tourist arrivals, particularly during the winter season. The partnership aims to harness the growing interest in special forms of tourism, which have garnered attention in recent years.
Strong Growth in Visitor Numbers
In 2025, the number of Israeli visitors to Cyprus reached an impressive 588,000, marking a significant increase of 38.4% compared to 2024. This surge has placed Israel just behind the UK, which has long been the leading source of tourists for Cyprus.
Financial Impact of Israeli Tourists
Not only are visitor numbers increasing, but the economic impact is noteworthy as well. On average, each Israeli tourist spends about €682 during their stay in Cyprus, a 2.9% increase year-on-year. This reflects a broader trend of growth, with spending up by 13.4% over the past three years.
Deepening Cooperation
Koumis emphasised the importance of the Israeli market, noting its rapid growth that has essentially doubled arrivals over the last six years. Discussions with Minister Katz also explored various international tourism issues, highlighting a mutual desire to deepen cooperation between the two countries.
Cultural Connections
The visit also allowed Koumis to connect with strategic partners and influential figures, including the Patriarch of Jerusalem, Theophilos. These interactions reinforce the cultural and spiritual ties that complement the growing tourism relationship.
Looking Ahead
With the goal of increasing winter arrivals and promoting niche tourism, the future looks bright for Cypriot tourism as it embraces the influx of Israeli visitors. Both nations are poised to benefit from this flourishing relationship, crafting unique experiences that resonate with travellers.
