Cyprus tourism revenue drops 4.8% in May as Middle East conflict deters visitors

The decline follows a 35% plunge in April, signaling persistent headwinds for the island's economy as the Central Bank of Cyprus cuts growth forecasts.

By Handelsavisen Newsroom · Automated 2026-07-30 10:54 UTC · 1 min read

Cyprus tourism revenue contracted by 4.8% in May 2026, extending a downturn driven by the ongoing war in the Middle East.

The decline was particularly acute among arrivals from the United Kingdom, one of the island's most critical source markets, as geopolitical instability continues to suppress travel demand.

1% year-on-year collapse in April, when revenues fell to €197.

The May figures follow a severe 35.1% year-on-year collapse in April, when revenues fell to €197.5 million from €304.2 million a year earlier.

This marks the second consecutive month of sharp declines, underscoring the depth of the shock to the sector.

The sustained drop in visitor numbers is directly linked to the conflict involving Iran, which has deterred tourists from key European markets.

The economic impact is broadening beyond the tourism sector.