Nicosia, Cyprus. Cyprus reported an 18.0 per cent rise in tourist arrivals in December 2025, according to data released by the Cyprus Statistical Service (Cystat). Separately, Sodap shareholders approved the long-term rental of the cooperative’s coastal plot in Kato Paphos for a five-star hotel project by Kanika.
Tourist arrivals in December and full-year totals
Tourist arrivals reached 156,959 in December 2025, up from 133,063 a year earlier, an 18.0 per cent increase.
For the January-December 2025 period, total arrivals climbed to 4,534,073, compared with 4,040,200 in 2024, representing a 12.2 per cent annual increase.
In December, Israel was the largest source market, accounting for 19.1 per cent of total arrivals, or 30,020 visitors.
Sodap lease approval for Kato Paphos plot
Wine cooperative Sodap shareholders approved, by an overwhelming majority, the long-term rental of the organisation’s coastal plot in Kato Paphos, clearing the way for the construction of a five-star hotel by Kanika.
The decision was taken during a general meeting that included moments of tension and controversy, though these did not change the outcome, ending a long-running debate over the site’s development.
An agreement worth tens of millions of euro was signed at the Sodap winery in the Stroumpi–Polemi area for the lease of the Kato Paphos beachfront plot.
Under the agreement, Sodap is set to receive tens of millions of euro in rental income over the duration of the lease, which the administration considers important for the organisation’s long-term sustainability.
The lease is for 66 years, with the second half taking effect subject to the tenant meeting its financial obligations after the first 33 years.
CIFA priorities for 2026
Cyprus Investment Funds Association (CIFA) president Maria Panayiotou released a statement outlining the organisation’s priorities for 2026.
What impact do you expect rising winter tourism and new hotel developments to have on Cyprus in 2026?
