Despite the ongoing tensions in the Middle East, Cyprus remains a safe travel destination, according to The Times of London. However, the newspaper also advises travellers to remain vigilant – particularly in relation to the presence and use of British military bases on the island.
Cyprus has returned to the international spotlight due to its geographic proximity to flashpoints in the Middle East. In an in-depth feature titled “Cyprus travel advice: is it safe to visit right now?”, The Times attempts to answer a question of concern for many British tourists and travel operators amid the peak of the summer season.
Safe – but with caution
According to the report, the UK government has not issued any travel warnings discouraging visits to the Republic of Cyprus. However, it does caution about “security risks in the wider region”.
“Cyprus is generally considered a safe destination, and that status has not changed despite the recent conflict in the Middle East,” the article states. Nonetheless, following Israel’s airstrikes on 13 June, the UK Foreign Office updated its general travel guidance:
“Ongoing hostilities in the region and between Israel and Iran could escalate quickly and pose security risks for the wider region”. As a result, British authorities advise travellers to remain alert, follow developments via trusted news sources, and comply with local government instructions.
The article emphasises that Cyprus itself has not been directly affected by the conflict in the region. It also recalls a statement by President Christodoulides affirming that the country maintains a neutral stance. “Nevertheless, its geographical proximity to the region has brought the island into the spotlight,” it adds.
The Times article also highlights that the British government does not recognise the self-declared “Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus”. This lack of formal recognition has direct implications for British nationals visiting the area, as consular support is described as “very limited” and this may leave travellers “more vulnerable and at greater risk” should any issues arise.
Mention of British bases
The Times also references the presence of British sovereign bases in Cyprus – particularly RAF Akrotiri. The article notes that earlier in 2024, the base was used in joint UK-US operations targeting Houthi military sites in Yemen. These actions reportedly sparked protests in Cyprus. However, it is noted that the Republic of Cyprus did not participate in the attacks, and the UK was not required to seek local authorisation.
Female travellers and LGBT safety
The Times article states that Cyprus is generally safe for female travellers, including solo visitors, with low overall crime rates. However, the UK Foreign Office warns that incidents such as sexual assault, including drug-assisted rape using substances like GHB and liquid ecstasy, can occur. Travellers are advised to stay vigilant on nights out—buy their own drinks, keep them in sight, and avoid separating from their group.
Cyprus is also generally safe for LGBT travellers. Same-sex relationships are legal and civil partnerships are recognised. However, the UK Foreign Office notes that social acceptance may be lower than in the UK, particularly in the northern part of the island.
Entry requirements for UK nationals
As stated in the article, as Cyprus is an EU member, standard EU entry rules apply. British travellers must have a passport that is less than 10 years old, with at least 3 months’ validity beyond their planned departure date and one blank page for stamping. UK citizens can stay in Cyprus without a visa for up to 90 days for tourism, business, or short-term study. Importantly, the fact that Cyprus is not in the Schengen zone, means that time spent there does not count toward the 90-day Schengen visa-free limit for Brits post-Brexit.
This British media coverage comes at a time when the Cypriot tourist season is already in full swing. And as highlighted recently, the island’s tourism sector is on high alert due to the escalating Middle East crisis. Early impacts are already being felt, particularly through booking cancellations from Israeli visitors. The President of the Cyprus Hotel and Tourism Association (STEK), Akis Vavlitis, recently stated that “Israel is our second-largest market after the UK”, and that bookings from Israel have been significantly affected.
Also read: 55 Cypriots request repatriation from Israel and Iran
Featured photo source: Alamy – The Times
Source: The Times/ Economy Today
