Deputy Minister Kostas Koumis confirms regional impacts on tourism remain manageable, highlighting a 4.9% May dip and the upcoming July resumption of direct flights with Kuwait to boost ties.

Stability Amid Regional Developments

The impact on tourism from recent developments in the region remains manageable so far, Deputy Minister of Tourism Kostas Koumis said on Friday, during a meeting in Nicosia with Kuwait’s Ambassador to Cyprus Abdullah Alturki, ahead of the resumption of direct flights between Cyprus and Kuwait on July 2. The resumption of direct flights, he noted, "creates positive prospects for further enhancing tourism ties between the two countries."

According to a Deputy Ministry announcement, Koumis said the Deputy Ministry is closely monitoring developments and continuously assessing the data. He noted that tourist arrivals in May recorded a limited drop of 4.9% compared with the same period in 2025, while remaining at levels similar to those of 2024. He also expressed optimism about the direction of the market and said the Deputy Ministry would continue to closely follow developments in air connectivity.

Restoring Air Connectivity with Kuwait

The meeting, held at the Deputy Ministry’s offices in Nicosia, focused on tourism relations between Cyprus and Kuwait, with particular emphasis on the resumption of direct flights and the prospects for further strengthening air links between the two countries. Direct flights operated by Jazeera Airways will resume on July 2 and run until September 3, 2026, with three flights per week.

The two sides expressed their willingness to continue close cooperation, saying the resumption of direct flights was another positive step towards further developing tourism and strengthening bilateral relations between Cyprus and Kuwait.

Strategic Tourism and Investment Goals

Koumis said that, taking into account the excellent relations between the two countries, efforts should continue to further boost tourism interest, with a view to increasing the frequency of direct flights and extending the flight programme.

The Kuwaiti Ambassador thanked the Deputy Minister for the meeting and said Cyprus remains a safe and attractive destination for Kuwaiti citizens. He also expressed the view that the resumption of direct flights would make a substantial contribution to strengthening relations between the two countries, both in tourism and investment.

Source: CNA (ΚΥΠΕ)