Nicosia, Cyprus. The Deputy Ministry of Tourism has launched a public consultation on Cyprus’ National Strategy for the Development of Diving Tourism, inviting stakeholders and the public to submit comments before the strategy is finalised. Feedback can be submitted through the government’s e-consultation platform until September 15, 2026.
Strategy and implementation plan
The consultation covers the study, “Development of a Strategy aiming at the Product Development of Diving Tourism in Cyprus”, and its accompanying implementation plan.
Both documents were prepared to support the strengthening and expansion of Cyprus’ diving tourism sector. The consultation seeks views, proposals and comments from industry professionals, organised groups, businesses and members of the public before the national strategy is completed and the action plan is prepared.
Assessment of the sector
According to the deputy ministry, the study assesses the current state of diving tourism in Cyprus, reviews international trends and best practices, and identifies the sector’s comparative advantages and challenges.
It also proposes a framework of strategic directions and actions intended to support the sustainable development of diving tourism.
The implementation plan will outline proposed measures, the authorities responsible for their delivery, an indicative timetable and arrangements for cooperation among the organisations involved.
Growth potential and dive centres
The study was prepared by the Cyprus Marine and Maritime Institute (CMMI) on behalf of the deputy ministry. It identifies growth prospects for the sector, stating that diving tourism currently represents about 3 per cent of the global tourism market and could increase to 6 per cent in the coming years.
Diving tourism includes SCUBA diving, freediving and snorkelling, and could generate high-value revenue for local businesses, diving operators and coastal communities, the study said.
It identified 86 registered dive centres in the Republic of Cyprus, including 37 in Famagusta district, 15 in Limassol, 14 in Larnaca, 13 in Paphos and seven in Nicosia. The study added that an unknown number of freelance instructors operate independently and are not included in the official figures.
