**May Tourist Arrivals Down 4.9 Per Cent**
In a recent announcement, Deputy Minister of Tourism Costas Koumis reported that tourist arrivals to Cyprus in May have decreased by 4.9 percent compared to the same month in 2025. Despite this drop, Koumis expressed optimism regarding the overall trajectory of the tourism market, emphasizing that the impacts of recent regional developments on the sector have been manageable.
During a meeting with Kuwait's Ambassador Abdullah Alturki, Koumis highlighted the importance of maintaining strong tourism ties between Cyprus and Kuwait. The meeting coincided with the announcement of resumed flights between the two nations, which Koumis described as a positive step towards enhancing tourism relations. He noted that these developments could lead to increased interest from Kuwaiti tourists and potentially boost the frequency of direct flights between the countries.
Koumis reassured stakeholders that the Deputy Ministry of Tourism is actively monitoring air connections and evaluating relevant data to ensure that the tourism sector remains resilient. He acknowledged that while the decrease in arrivals is noteworthy, it aligns closely with the levels recorded in 2024, suggesting a stabilizing trend in the market.
The Deputy Minister's remarks come at a time when the tourism industry is navigating various challenges, including geopolitical tensions in the region. However, Koumis remains hopeful about the future, stating that the ministry will continue to work diligently to foster growth and attract visitors from various markets.
As Cyprus looks to strengthen its tourism sector, the resumption of flights with Kuwait is seen as a significant opportunity. Koumis emphasized the "excellent relations" between the two countries and reiterated the commitment to enhancing tourist interest, which could lead to a more robust tourism exchange.
Overall, while the decline in May tourist arrivals signals some challenges, the proactive measures being taken by the Deputy Ministry and the renewed air connections with Kuwait provide a foundation for optimism in the tourism sector moving forward.