Is it safe to visit Cyprus? Latest travel advice
Russia has tested a hypersonic missile at its Eastern Mediterranean naval base, just 100 miles away from Cyprus, prompting fresh questions about whether it is safe to visit the island.
“On Dec 3, during an exercise to test the combined activities of Russian navy and air force troop groups, precision sea-based missiles were launched in the eastern part of the Mediterranean Sea,” Russia’s defence ministry said in a statement.
Russia’s naval base is located in Tartus, Syria, which is approximately 105 miles away from the eastern tip of Cyprus, the closest holiday destination to the conflict zones of the Middle East.
While Cyprus is entirely politically neutral in the Middle East conflicts, holidaymakers may be nervous about travelling somewhere in such close proximity to Israel, Lebanon and Syria. Here’s everything you need to know about the safety of visiting Cyprus right now.
How far is Cyprus from the conflict zone?
The resort of Ayia Napa, on the southeastern tip of Cyprus, is only 110 miles away from Beirut and around 145 miles to the Israel-Lebanon border. By way of comparison, London to Nottingham is around 110 miles and London to Sheffield is around 145 miles.
Cyprus is also around 105 miles away from Tartus, the Syrian port town where Russia has a naval base. In recent days Syria’s 13-year civil war was reignited after insurgents seized Aleppo in a surprise offensive, representing a significant threat to president Bashar al-Assad’s regime.
The British Government has previously used RAF Akrotiri in Cyprus as a staging post for launching airstrikes against Houthi rebels in Yemen, who have been targeting shipping vessels in the Red Sea. The airbase has also been used as a strategic base to assist in the evacuation of British nationals from Lebanon.
What is the FCDO advice?
The FCDO most recently updated its advice page to Cyprus on October 26, referencing the island’s proximity to the Middle East: “Ongoing hostilities in the region and between Israel and Lebanon could escalate quickly and pose risks for the wider region. On 1 October, Iran launched around 200 ballistic missiles at Israel. On 26 October, Israel carried out military action against Iran. Monitor this travel advice and other media as the situation is changing fast.”
The FCDO says it is safe to travel to Cyprus. However, it does advise: “Demonstrations may occur in cities with little or no notice. Events in the Middle East have led to heightened tensions and demonstrations are likely. Avoid any protests, political gatherings, or marches and leave the area if one develops. Local transport routes may be disrupted.”
Is there a risk of terrorist attacks in Cyprus?
The FCDO advises: “There is a high threat of terrorist attack globally affecting UK interests and British nationals, including from groups and individuals who view the UK and British nationals as targets. Stay aware of your surroundings at all times.”
The FCDO adds that although there’s no recent history of terrorism in Cyprus, attacks cannot be ruled out. They also warn that attacks could be indiscriminate, including in places visited by foreign nationals.
Are flights still running to Cyprus?
Yes, flights to Cyprus are operating as normal.
What if I want to cancel my holiday?
If you have booked a package holiday to Cyprus and want to cancel your trip for any reason, contact your tour operator and they might offer flexibility with alternative dates.
But bear in mind that, because the Foreign Office has not issued any advice against travel to Cyprus, there is no guarantee you will receive a refund, nor will you be able to claim money back with your travel insurance company.
If you have booked flights and accommodation independently, and wish to cancel your holiday, contact your travel providers as soon as possible to see if you can rearrange your plans. Note, however, that given the circumstances, it is unlikely you will receive a full refund.
This article was first published in October 2024 and has been revised and updated.
