Cyprus Tourism Hit by 25% Drop in Summer Bookings
Pasyxe General Director Christos Angelides Warns of Significant Revenue Loss and Calls for Government Support Amid Rising Costs and Geopolitical Instability.
A 25% decrease in summer hotel bookings has been recorded compared to the same period last year, according to Christos Angelides, General Director of the Cyprus Hotel Association (PASYXE). Speaking to the Cyprus News Agency (CNA), he noted that while 2025 was a record year with occupancy levels reaching 95% in July, current projections for the upcoming peak season are struggling to exceed 50%.
Mr. Angelides explained that although the initial wave of cancellations has stabilized, new bookings are trickling in too slowly to reverse the damage caused by the instability of the last two months. "This concerns us; we are monitoring it closely," he stated, adding that May occupancy is currently hovering around 40-50%. The gap in revenue is expected to be "gigantic," threatening the livelihoods of thousands of families and professionals dependent on the tourism sector.
The rising price of jet fuel is forcing airlines to prioritize more profitable, shorter-haul routes. Angelides pointed out that Cyprus is at a geographical disadvantage compared to competitors like Spain. A plane flying from Northern Europe can serve Spain three times a day, whereas it can only complete one round trip to Cyprus in the same timeframe. Consequently, several airlines have already reduced their flight schedules to the island.
The Association is currently focusing on efforts to have travel advisories from the UK and the USA revised. PASYXE has already held meetings with the respective embassies to clarify the safety and stability of Cyprus as a destination. Additionally, hotels are being encouraged to offer special promotions to domestic travelers and repeat guests to boost occupancy.
While most hotels are now operational, the industry is waiting for the government's response regarding the extension of employment subsidy schemes. The current program expired at the end of April, and PASYXE is requesting an extension through May and June. "We need this for better planning to ensure no jobs are lost," Angelides emphasized, stressing that maintaining the high quality of service and the reputation of Cyprus as a top-tier destination remains the ultimate goal.
