The Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus (TRNC) is gearing up for a groundbreaking year in tourism with ambitious projects and initiatives aimed at reshaping its image and boosting its appeal to a wider audience. The Ministry of Tourism, Culture, Youth, and Environment has prepared a series of programs designed to "internalize tourism in society," supported by incentives and additional resources.

Incentives for European Tourists

Starting January 1, 2025, airline companies flying tourists from Europe to the TRNC will receive 12-month incentives, targeting an influx of tourists who actively explore local streets and cultural sites. Deputy Prime Ministry Undersecretary Serhan Aktunç emphasized that these measures aim to attract culturally inclined visitors, diversifying the country's tourism base beyond its traditional appeal.

30 Million TL for Inner-City Facilities

A budget of 30 million TL, allocated by the Çukurova Agency, will fund upgrades to city markets and historical areas in Nicosia, Gazimağusa, and Kyrenia. This initiative includes grants for hotels, cafes, and restaurants, enhancing the experience for tourists while preserving the charm of these locations.

Promoting "Island Cyprus"

A dedicated "Island Cyprus" campaign aims to change the long-standing perception of TRNC as primarily a casino destination. This initiative will focus on promoting gastronomy, history, culture, sea, and walking paths to Turkish visitors, with the goal of increasing domestic tourism from Turkey’s 84 million residents.

Support for Non-Casino Hotels

Grants will also be provided to five-star hotels without casinos to encourage diversification in the hospitality sector. Aktunç revealed that these grants would roll out in two phases, one in March-April and the other in September-October 2025.

Tourism Master Plan: The "Constitution of Tourism"

Aktunç announced the nearing completion of the Tourism Master Plan for 2025-2034, which will be presented to Parliament for legalization. This comprehensive framework will include short, medium, and long-term action plans for regional bed capacities and tourism models. It will involve stakeholders from municipalities, academia, civil society, and the tourism sector, aiming to create a model that "smells like Cyprus" and reflects the island’s unique identity.

Changing the Perception of TRNC

Highlighting the disparity in promotional budgets compared to Southern Cyprus—70 million Euros versus TRNC’s 9 million Euros—Aktunç acknowledged the challenges but remained optimistic. "We are preparing our campaigns to shift perceptions and position TRNC as a cultural and historical hub rather than just a casino destination," he stated.

Tourism for Everyone

Aktunç emphasized the importance of making tourism a shared benefit for all citizens. "We aim to implement a model where society earns from tourism and embraces it fully," he added, focusing on cultural tourism to attract visitors who appreciate the island's rich heritage.

With these transformative projects and campaigns, TRNC aims to redefine its tourism landscape, creating opportunities for growth and establishing itself as a leading destination in the Mediterranean.