Cyprus advances AI strategy to strengthen tourism competitiveness

Nicosia, Cyprus. Cyprus is seeking to make artificial intelligence a central element of its tourism strategy, as Tourism Deputy Minister Kostas Koumis and Chief Scientist for Research, Innovation and Technology Demetris Skourides discussed the technology’s potential to improve services and strengthen competitiveness.

The meeting focused on linking tourism with AI as Cyprus moves to accelerate its digital transformation as a tourism destination, according to the Deputy Ministry of Tourism.

Smart Tourism 2032 strategy

Skourides’ team presented a strategy titled “Smart Tourism 2032: the Cyprus Artificial Intelligence Strategy” as part of the ongoing public consultation on the national AI strategy.

The consultation is due to conclude on August 31, 2026. The tourism strategy forms part of the wider effort to determine how AI should be developed and applied across the economy.

Three areas of focus

The proposed strategy aims to establish Cyprus as a “Living Lab”, combining advanced technology with the island’s traditional hospitality.

It is structured around three interconnected areas: smart tourism infrastructure, smart destination planning and management, and an empowered digital tourist.

Particular emphasis is being placed on small and medium-sized tourism businesses, which are expected to play an important role in adopting new technologies across the sector.

Improving services and visitor experience

Koumis said AI had already begun changing tourism in visible ways, affecting how visitors gather information, organise trips and how destinations promote themselves.

He said the government and the Deputy Ministry of Tourism intended to make full use of AI in cooperation with Skourides’ team, aiming to improve Cyprus’ competitiveness and the experience offered to visitors.