Cyprus is 250 miles away as the crow flies from Israel and has remained neutral in the recent conflict. However, the island has long been used as a base for military exercises in the region.
On Friday June 13, 30 flights bound for Israel were diverted to Cyprus after Israeli forces launched an attack on Iran. Israel and Iran have continued to exchange fire and attacks are likely to continue, raising the prospect of another protracted conflict in the region. Due to the fighting, Israeli airspace has been closed until further notice and there are no flights from Cyprus to Israel. Routes from UK airports are operating as normal as of June 17.
The UK Foreign Office does not advise against travelling to Cyprus but it warns of “security risks for the wider region”. Here is what you need to know if you’re planning a trip or travelling soon.
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What’s the latest government advice about travelling to Cyprus?
Cyprus is generally considered to be a safe holiday destination, and this has not changed given the recent conflict in the Middle East.
However, following the Israel attacks on June 13, the UK Foreign Office has updated its travel advice. It says: “Ongoing hostilities in the region and between Israel and Iran could escalate quickly and pose security risks for the wider region. You should: monitor local and international media for the latest information [and] be vigilant and follow the instructions of local authorities.”
In previous updates, the Foreign Office said that demonstrations may occur in cities with little or no notice. It added: “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.”
Separately, the British government does not recognise “the self-declared Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus”. Consular support will be very limited in this area, which means you may be “more vulnerable and at greater risk”.
Has Cyprus been affected by the conflict in the Middle East?
Cyprus has not been directly affected by the fighting in the Middle East, and its president had previously declared that the country was neutral in the conflict. However, its geographical proximity to the region has placed it under the spotlight.
For example, in early 2024, the RAF base in Akrotiri was used by the US and the UK to launch missile strikes against Houthi bases in Yemen. This was in response to Houthi attacks on commercial ships in the Red Sea. It sparked protests within Cyprus even though the country was not involved in the operation, and Britain was not obliged to seek permission from Cyprus for military operations launched from the base. In September 2024, Cyprus was also used as a base to evacuate UK nationals from Lebanon as the fighting intensified between Israel and Hezbollah.
Is it safe to travel to Cyprus right now?
The Foreign Office has not changed its advice on travelling to Cyprus in light of the fighting between Israel and Iran that began on June 13, and it’s still considered a safe destination. You should, however, follow the local news and stay away from any protests while there.
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What are Cyprus’s entry requirements?
Cyprus is a full member of the EU, which means that most of the rules and restrictions for entering any EU nation apply, including passport validity requirements.
For British citizens, that means ensuring that your passport is less than ten years old and has at least three months of validity left on the day you intend to leave the country. You also need at least one blank page for stamping.
You can enter Cyprus without a visa for up to 90 days for tourism purposes, visiting friends or family, attending business meetings or short-term study. Unlike visits to other EU countries such as France or Spain, which are part of the Schengen zone, your stay in Cyprus does not count towards the 90 day visa-free limit imposed on Brits after Brexit.
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Is Cyprus safe for female travellers?
Yes, Cyprus is generally considered safe for female travellers, including those travelling on their own. Crime rates are low but personal attacks, including sexual assault, do happen.
The UK Foreign Office says that drug-assisted rape is a risk in Cyprus, and cites the use of drugs such as GHB and liquid ecstasy. It advises buying your own drinks and keeping an eye on them. If you’re on a night out with friends, avoid splitting up from the rest of the group.
Is Cyprus safe for LGBT travellers?
Cyprus is generally considered safe for LGBT travellers. Same-sex relationships are legal in the country and civil partnerships are recognised. However, the Foreign Office warns that LGBT relationships may not be as widely accepted as in the UK, especially in the north of the island.
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