Cyprus has taken a bold step towards boosting its tourism industry by reestablishing its diplomatic presence in Jakarta, Indonesia, after a decade-long absence. This strategic move signals a clear intention to attract more tourists from Southeast Asia, particularly from Indonesia, Singapore, and the Philippines.
The decision is fueled by the recognition of the burgeoning Southeast Asian middle class, a demographic with a growing appetite for exploring new destinations. Cyprus, despite its relatively small size, presents a compelling proposition with its diverse range of attractions, from sun-kissed beaches and ancient historical sites to a captivating blend of European and Middle Eastern culture.
Tourism is a cornerstone of the Cypriot economy, contributing a significant 12.8% to its GDP in 2023. The country welcomes around four million tourists annually, a number that surpasses its population of one million. In 2023 alone, Cyprus saw a remarkable 20.1% increase in tourist arrivals, reaching 3.8 million.
Recognizing the potential of the Southeast Asian market, Cyprus is actively promoting its unique offerings. The country’s Ambassador to Indonesia and ASEAN, Nikos Panayiotou, highlighted the appeal of Cypriot cuisine and wine, catering to the discerning palates of Southeast Asian visitors.
Travel accessibility has been significantly enhanced with connecting flights offered by airlines such as Emirates and Qatar Airways, providing routes from Jakarta and Bali via the Middle East to Larnaca International Airport in Cyprus. To further streamline travel for Southeast Asian tourists, Cyprus has simplified its visa application process for Indonesian and Philippine visitors. Holders of valid multiple-entry Schengen visas are exempt from needing an additional visa for Cyprus, while Singaporean tourists enjoy visa-free entry.
Cyprus plans to leverage the power of social media and collaborate closely with industry stakeholders to gain a deeper understanding of the Southeast Asian tourism market and effectively tap into its potential. Strengthening ties with these key markets is a central pillar of Cyprus’s strategy to propel the growth of its tourism sector.
