The UK Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) has issued a major update to its travel advice for Cyprus, removing special warnings that were in place due to the conflict in the Middle East. The update comes ahead of the peak summer season, with hopes that the tourism economy will not be as impacted as previously expected.
Warnings Lifted Following Peace Deal
Cyprus had been placed under a specific warning alongside at least 17 other countries in the region, related to risks caused by the Iran-US war. The concern was linked to a drone attack targeting a military base on the island. The FCDO had previously stated that "terrorist attacks in Cyprus cannot be ruled out."
Early in the Middle East conflict, RAF Akrotiri on the island nation was the target of a suspected drone impact. The FCDO advised British nationals in the Sovereign Base Areas to follow instructions from the local administration, while those in the Republic of Cyprus were urged to follow instructions from Cypriot authorities. Travel disruptions were considered likely, and British travellers were urged to be cautious when booking overseas trips.
Peace Deal and Ceasefire
The update to the advice comes as a peace deal has been agreed between the two countries, with a ceasefire continuing. General safety advice remains in place, but there is now no mention of the increased risk or the impact the war had on travel disruption. The lifting of the warning is a positive development for the summer tourism season.
Impact on Tourism
British travel guidance to Cyprus plays a major role for the island's tourism industry, as the UK is Cyprus's largest tourism market. The warning and fears created regional instability, despite the UK government not advising against travel to Cyprus. The announcement of the peace deal on Sunday has led to the lifting of several travel restrictions across the world, with lowered travel advice for several countries in the Middle East.
