Tourism in Cyprus

Tourism in Cyprus occupies a dominant position in the economy. Moreover, it significantly impacts Cyprus culture and its multinational/multicultural development throughout the decades. In 2006, the tourism industry contributed 10.7% of the GDP which in real terms it generated a total of US$5,445.0 mn. In the same year, the total employment was estimated at 113,000 jobs. With almost 3 million tourist arrivals per year, it is the 40th most popular destination in the world. However, per capita of local population it ranks 6th. Cyprus is a full member of the World Tourism Organisation since 1975.

Europe represents the lion's share of tourist arrivals. Over 80% of visitors come from Northern, Western and Eastern Europe, while British tourists remain the most traditional. Several factors contribute to this, including widely spoken English as well as the traditional links from British colonialism and the presence of British military bases at Akrotiri and Dhekelia. The downturn in the British economy in the late 2000s was reflected in a drop in tourist arrivals highlighting the over-reliance of Cyprus' tourist industry on one customer. In 2009 efforts were underway to boost arrivals from other countries. Notably, and inline with the latest geopolitical developments, the second largest segment is Russian tourists - a segment expected to increase even further.

Total number of tourists in Cyprus in 2016 was 3,186,531. Most visitors arriving to Cyprus on short term basis in 2016 were from the following countries:

According to the World Economic Forum's 2013 Travel and Tourism Competitiveness Report, Cyprus' tourism industry ranks 29th in the world in terms of overall competitiveness. In terms of Tourism Infrastructure, in relation to the tourism industry Cyprus ranks 1st in the world. With some of the most popular and cleanest beaches in Europe, much of the tourist industry relies on "sea sun and sand" to attract tourists. This reflects in the seasonal distribution of tourist arrivals with a disproportionate number arriving during the summer months. Whereas most eastern resorts like Protaras and Ayia Napa lie dormant in the winter months the west of the island remains open to tourism with the promotion of Cypriot history culture, art and specialized sports such as golf and tennis has a wider distribution.

...
Wikipedia