20.10.2022 Views

Doing Business in Cyprus (UAE Edition)

You also want an ePaper? Increase the reach of your titles

YUMPU automatically turns print PDFs into web optimized ePapers that Google loves.

TheProfilerGroup<br />

DOING BUSINESS<br />

CYPRUS<br />

UNITED ARAB EMIRATES EDITION


DOING BUSINESS C YPRUS<br />

2<br />

UNITED ARAB EMIRATES EDITION<br />

TheProfilerGroup<br />

The Profiler Group is a specialist publisher of country <strong>in</strong>formation that assists<br />

corporations manag<strong>in</strong>g operations across national borders with trade, <strong>in</strong>vestment<br />

and relocation decisions. The Profiler Group is recognised by senior bus<strong>in</strong>ess<br />

executives, government representatives, <strong>in</strong>stitutions and global organisations<br />

as a lead<strong>in</strong>g provider of <strong>in</strong>formative and <strong>in</strong>sightful country <strong>in</strong>telligence.<br />

Krist<strong>in</strong>a Ernst<br />

Director<br />

ernst@theprofilergroup.com<br />

Heidi Martt<strong>in</strong>en<br />

Editor<br />

martt<strong>in</strong>en@theprofilergroup.com<br />

Victoria Vasiliou<br />

Adm<strong>in</strong>istrative Manager<br />

vasiliou@theprofilergroup.com<br />

EUROPE<br />

16, Elia Papakyriakou, Suite 101,<br />

Engomi, 2415 Nicosia, <strong>Cyprus</strong><br />

cyprus@theprofilergroup.com<br />

www.theprofilergroup.com<br />

www.cyprusprofile.com<br />

NORTH AMERICA<br />

21-2123 Walkers L<strong>in</strong>e,<br />

Burl<strong>in</strong>gton Ontario, L7M 4Z9, Canada<br />

RESEARCH & CONTRIBUTIONS<br />

The Profiler Group staff<br />

PUBLICATION DATE<br />

September 2022<br />

The <strong>in</strong>formation <strong>in</strong>cluded <strong>in</strong> this publication is<br />

for <strong>in</strong>formation purposes only and is subject<br />

to change. With regard to the licens<strong>in</strong>g of a<br />

bus<strong>in</strong>ess, <strong>in</strong>come generation or any other legal<br />

or account<strong>in</strong>g matters, the Publisher strongly<br />

recommends that the reader seeks the advice<br />

of an appropriately licensed professional.<br />

All rights reserved. Reproduction <strong>in</strong> whole or part<br />

is strictly prohibited without written permission.<br />

Op<strong>in</strong>ions expressed <strong>in</strong> this publication are not<br />

necessarily those of the editor or publisher. All<br />

reasonable care is taken to ensure truth and<br />

accuracy, but the editor and publishers cannot<br />

be held responsible for errors or omissions <strong>in</strong><br />

articles, advertis<strong>in</strong>g, photographs or illustrations.<br />

COOPERATION PARTNERS


The New Equation<br />

The New Equation is a community of solvers com<strong>in</strong>g together<br />

<strong>in</strong> unexpected ways. It’s human-led and tech-powered.<br />

It’s how we build trust for today and tomorrow.<br />

Learn more at www.pwc.com.cy/en/the-new-equation.html


DOING BUSINESS C YPRUS<br />

4<br />

UNITED ARAB EMIRATES EDITION<br />

Contents<br />

06<br />

10<br />

18<br />

22<br />

34<br />

36<br />

42<br />

48<br />

55<br />

58<br />

60<br />

66<br />

70<br />

75<br />

81<br />

CYPRUS AT A GLANCE<br />

Key Facts & Figures<br />

COUNTRY OVERVIEW<br />

<strong>Cyprus</strong>: Work-Life Balance<br />

INSIGHT<br />

M<strong>in</strong>ister of Energy, Commerce, and Industry Natasa Pilides<br />

FOREIGN DIRECT INVESTMENT<br />

Investment Gateway<br />

INSIGHT<br />

M<strong>in</strong>ister of Foreign Affairs Ioannis Kasoulides<br />

INTERVIEW<br />

Ambassador of the United Arab Emirates to <strong>Cyprus</strong><br />

Sultan Ahmed Ghanem Al Suwaidi<br />

INTERVIEW<br />

Ambassador of the Republic of <strong>Cyprus</strong> to the United Arab Emirates<br />

Yannis Michaelides<br />

SPOTLIGHT<br />

<strong>Cyprus</strong> Real Estate<br />

PROPERTY SHOWCASE<br />

Lead<strong>in</strong>g Developments <strong>in</strong> <strong>Cyprus</strong><br />

INSIGHT<br />

CEO of Invest <strong>Cyprus</strong> George Campanellas<br />

INCENTIVES<br />

New Government Action Plan<br />

INTERVIEW<br />

<strong>Cyprus</strong>-GCC Countries <strong>Bus<strong>in</strong>ess</strong> Association President Yiannis Sophianos<br />

BUSINESS OPERATING ENVIRONMENT<br />

<strong>Bus<strong>in</strong>ess</strong> operat<strong>in</strong>g environment guide <strong>in</strong>clud<strong>in</strong>g taxation, bus<strong>in</strong>ess costs,<br />

commercial and residential property, and salary survey<br />

TAXATION<br />

Tax and Regulatory Regime of <strong>Cyprus</strong><br />

WHO’S WHO IN CYPRUS<br />

The def<strong>in</strong>itive guide to <strong>Cyprus</strong>’ lead<strong>in</strong>g companies, executives, and<br />

professional advisors


There are new<br />

competitors with a<br />

fresh vision.<br />

Is your company agile enough<br />

to outpace them?<br />

Us<strong>in</strong>g <strong>in</strong>novative tools, th<strong>in</strong>k<strong>in</strong>g and<br />

frameworks, KPMG can help adapt your<br />

bus<strong>in</strong>ess <strong>in</strong> the face of constant disruption.<br />

Learn more at kpmg.com.cy<br />

©2022 KPMG Limited, a <strong>Cyprus</strong> limited liability company and a member firm of the KPMG global organization of <strong>in</strong>dependent member firms affiliated with KPMG<br />

International Limited, a private English company limited by guarantee. All rights reserved.<br />

The KPMG name and logo are trademarks used under license by the <strong>in</strong>dependent member firms of the KPMG global organization.


DOING BUSINESS C YPRUS<br />

6<br />

UNITED ARAB EMIRATES EDITION<br />

<strong>Cyprus</strong> at a Glance<br />

Ly<strong>in</strong>g at the crossroads of Europe, Asia and Africa, <strong>Cyprus</strong> has long served as a<br />

major eastern trad<strong>in</strong>g post. It is a small country, but the third largest island <strong>in</strong><br />

the Mediterranean Sea and shares a maritime border with Egypt 300km to the<br />

south, Lebanon 108km to the east and Turkey 71km to the north, while ma<strong>in</strong>land<br />

Greece lies 800km to the north-west. With 10,000 years of history, the island’s<br />

strategic location has long made it a jewel <strong>in</strong> the crown of the powers of the day.<br />

PAPHOS<br />

(Pafos)<br />

101,900<br />

Paphos<br />

International<br />

Airport<br />

LIMASSOL<br />

(Lemesos)<br />

258,900<br />

NICOSIA<br />

(Lefkosia)<br />

351,600<br />

Larnaca<br />

International<br />

Airport<br />

LARNACA<br />

(Larnaka)<br />

154,200<br />

35ºN<br />

33ºE<br />

FAMAGUSTA<br />

(Ammochostos)<br />

51,500


DOING BUSINESS C YPRUS<br />

7<br />

UNITED ARAB EMIRATES EDITION<br />

CYPRUS<br />

DATA<br />

MEMBERSHIPS<br />

EU & Eurozone<br />

World Trade<br />

Organization<br />

United Nations<br />

Council of Europe<br />

Commonwealth<br />

World Bank & IMF<br />

RELIGION<br />

89.1%<br />

Greek Orthodox<br />

2.9% Roman Catholic<br />

2.0% Protestant/Anglican<br />

1.8% Muslim<br />

1.7% Unknown/Atheist<br />

1.0% Buddhist<br />

1.5% Other<br />

TOTAL POPULATION<br />

918,100<br />

Republic of <strong>Cyprus</strong><br />

79%<br />

Cypriot<br />

21%<br />

Non-Cypriot<br />

OFFICIAL LANGUAGES<br />

Greek &<br />

Turkish<br />

(bus<strong>in</strong>ess generally<br />

conducted <strong>in</strong> English)<br />

TIME<br />

+2 Hours<br />

ahead of GMT<br />

SUNSHINE<br />

340 days<br />

of sunsh<strong>in</strong>e/year<br />

AREA & SIZE<br />

9,251 km 2<br />

(3,355 km 2 <strong>in</strong> the<br />

occupied area)<br />

POPULATION DENSITY<br />

132<br />

(persons per km 2 )<br />

MEDIAN AGE<br />

38<br />

CURRENCY<br />

Euro (€)<br />

RAINFALL<br />

503 mm<br />

average annual<br />

AVERAGE TEMPERATURE<br />

+13ºC<br />

W<strong>in</strong>ter<br />

+34ºC<br />

Summer<br />

MAIN MEDIA<br />

<strong>Cyprus</strong> Mail<br />

Phileleftheros<br />

Politis<br />

CyBC


DOING BUSINESS C YPRUS<br />

8<br />

UNITED ARAB EMIRATES EDITION<br />

CYPRUS<br />

BUSINESS<br />

FIGURES<br />

TOTAL GDP<br />

€23.4<br />

billion<br />

(2021)<br />

GDP PER CAPITA<br />

€26,031<br />

(2021)<br />

12.3%<br />

Taxes & Subsidies<br />

5.4%<br />

Construction<br />

7.5%<br />

M<strong>in</strong><strong>in</strong>g, manufactur<strong>in</strong>g,<br />

electricity & water<br />

GDP<br />

BY SECTOR<br />

73.1%<br />

Services<br />

1.8%<br />

Agriculture,<br />

forestry & fish<strong>in</strong>g<br />

UNEMPLOYMENT<br />

7.5%<br />

(2021)<br />

GDP GROWTH<br />

5.5%<br />

(2021)<br />

INFLATION<br />

2.3%<br />

(2021)<br />

INTERNATIONAL RANKINGS<br />

Standard & Poor’s<br />

BBB<br />

CORPORATE<br />

TAX RATE<br />

12.5%<br />

TIME TO START<br />

UP A BUSINESS<br />

1.3 days<br />

ACCOUNTING<br />

STANDARD<br />

IFRS<br />

Fitch<br />

BBB- Moody’s<br />

Ba1<br />

(September 2022)<br />

MAIN TRADING PARTNERS<br />

UK<br />

Germany<br />

Italy<br />

France<br />

Israel<br />

Greece<br />

Ch<strong>in</strong>a<br />

CRIME<br />

0.9 per<br />

100 persons<br />

<strong>Cyprus</strong> is the safest<br />

country <strong>in</strong> the world for<br />

young people out of<br />

184 countries across<br />

the globe.


Aboveall<br />

Your ultimate dest<strong>in</strong>ation<br />

Visit our show apartments or contact us<br />

for more <strong>in</strong>formation on our properties.<br />

Prime location & design<br />

Right on the seafront, <strong>in</strong> the city centre.<br />

The only place to live, work and play<br />

<strong>in</strong> <strong>Cyprus</strong>, with sea view apartments,<br />

offices and first-class amenities.<br />

Unrivalled facilities & services<br />

Indoor leisure retreats, an outdoor oasis,<br />

and a thriv<strong>in</strong>g plaza with restaurants,<br />

bars and shops. All complemented with<br />

on-site management, concierge<br />

and rental services.<br />

Renowned credibility<br />

Reputable local and <strong>in</strong>ternational<br />

experts <strong>in</strong> high-rise development with<br />

a proven history and track record.<br />

We deliver on our promise!<br />

Excellent value<br />

The best product, at the best price<br />

<strong>in</strong> Limassol. F<strong>in</strong>anc<strong>in</strong>g secured, all<br />

permits issued and delivery scheduled<br />

for the end of the year.<br />

<strong>Cyprus</strong> +357 8000 50 30<br />

TR I LOGYLI MAS S O L .COM<br />

SHOW APARTMENT


DOING BUSINESS C YPRUS<br />

10<br />

UNITED ARAB EMIRATES EDITION<br />

COUNTRY OVERVIEW<br />

<strong>Cyprus</strong>: Work-Life Balance<br />

Renowned s<strong>in</strong>ce antiquity, <strong>Cyprus</strong> has re<strong>in</strong>vented<br />

itself multiple times and is go<strong>in</strong>g through another<br />

excit<strong>in</strong>g transformation today. The island nation has<br />

big ambitions to diversify its economy by plac<strong>in</strong>g<br />

<strong>in</strong>novation at its core, while it cont<strong>in</strong>ues to attract<br />

professional expats and foreign <strong>in</strong>vestors to its<br />

shores thanks to its relaxed lifestyle coupled with<br />

bourgeon<strong>in</strong>g prospects <strong>in</strong> multiple sectors.<br />

L<br />

ocated <strong>in</strong> the eastern Mediterranean at the crossroads of Europe, the Middle East<br />

and Africa, <strong>Cyprus</strong>’ strategic position has always played a key role <strong>in</strong> shap<strong>in</strong>g its<br />

10,000-year history and <strong>in</strong> develop<strong>in</strong>g the island <strong>in</strong>to a convenient centre for trade<br />

and <strong>in</strong>ternational bus<strong>in</strong>ess. Despite be<strong>in</strong>g a country of less than a million people,<br />

the Republic of <strong>Cyprus</strong> has steadily built itself <strong>in</strong>to a thriv<strong>in</strong>g bus<strong>in</strong>ess centre over<br />

the decades. An EU and eurozone member for over a decade, and with one of the<br />

highest educated populations <strong>in</strong> Europe, <strong>Cyprus</strong> has built a strong service-based<br />

economy. Its low-cost bus<strong>in</strong>ess environment with a wealth of support services, a<br />

sophisticated ICT <strong>in</strong>frastructure and <strong>in</strong>vestor-friendly tax regime – backed up by an<br />

extensive network of double taxation agreements with 67 countries – has developed<br />

<strong>Cyprus</strong> <strong>in</strong>to an important European and regional f<strong>in</strong>ancial and bus<strong>in</strong>ess services<br />

hub. The country is also one of Europe’s favourite holiday dest<strong>in</strong>ations, enjoy<strong>in</strong>g<br />

340 days of glorious sunsh<strong>in</strong>e a year and boasts a beautiful coastl<strong>in</strong>e teem<strong>in</strong>g with


DOING BUSINESS C YPRUS<br />

11<br />

UNITED ARAB EMIRATES EDITION<br />

stretches of golden sand, secluded bays and rocky coves, all surrounded by some of<br />

the cleanest beaches and waters <strong>in</strong> the Mediterranean Sea. The landscape is dotted<br />

with the fasc<strong>in</strong>at<strong>in</strong>g rema<strong>in</strong>s of history, from Neolithic settlements and ancient cityk<strong>in</strong>gdoms<br />

to exquisite Byzant<strong>in</strong>e art and magnificent Venetian architecture. Add to<br />

this the vibrant and cosmopolitan lifestyle where East meets West, <strong>Cyprus</strong> offers the<br />

perfect balance between bus<strong>in</strong>ess and leisure.<br />

PEOPLE & CULTURE<br />

While the Republic of <strong>Cyprus</strong> is a<br />

Greek-speak<strong>in</strong>g nation, English<br />

is almost universally spoken and is the<br />

language of <strong>in</strong>ternational bus<strong>in</strong>ess.<br />

German, French and Russian speakers<br />

are also easily found, thanks to the high<br />

number of Cypriots with <strong>in</strong>ternational<br />

degrees, the country’s commercial ties<br />

with the global bus<strong>in</strong>ess community,<br />

and the island’s popularity as a tourist<br />

dest<strong>in</strong>ation. <strong>Cyprus</strong> is well known for its<br />

hospitality, a fact reflected <strong>in</strong> the Greek<br />

word, xenos, used for both stranger and<br />

guest. Life is meant to be enjoyed <strong>in</strong><br />

<strong>Cyprus</strong>, which is renowned for its excellent quality of life. Cafe culture predom<strong>in</strong>ates,<br />

with both bus<strong>in</strong>ess and social meet<strong>in</strong>gs tak<strong>in</strong>g place over a leisurely frappe (iced<br />

coffee) <strong>in</strong> the numerous cafes <strong>in</strong> every town and city. As with most Mediterranean<br />

cultures, food also plays a vital role <strong>in</strong> family and social life. The famous <strong>Cyprus</strong> meze<br />

– a large selection of small, delectable dishes – is best enjoyed siga siga (slowly) and<br />

al fresco.<br />

<strong>Cyprus</strong> has a resilient economy that<br />

has time and time aga<strong>in</strong> proven<br />

its capacity to adjust to cont<strong>in</strong>uously<br />

chang<strong>in</strong>g conditions and bounce<br />

back from external shocks. Before its<br />

<strong>in</strong>dependence from the UK <strong>in</strong> 1960, the<br />

<strong>Cyprus</strong> economy was primarily based on<br />

agriculture and the export of m<strong>in</strong>erals.<br />

However, <strong>in</strong> the last few decades the<br />

country has established itself as a serious<br />

<strong>in</strong>ternational bus<strong>in</strong>ess and service centre<br />

for shipp<strong>in</strong>g, f<strong>in</strong>ancial services and<br />

commerce, and is classified by the World<br />

Bank as a high-<strong>in</strong>come country. The<br />

island’s accession to the EU <strong>in</strong> 2004 with<br />

I<br />

Offer<strong>in</strong>g a tax-efficient<br />

EU company domicile, the<br />

country is also emerg<strong>in</strong>g as<br />

a compell<strong>in</strong>g dest<strong>in</strong>ation for<br />

regional headquarters and<br />

a base for tech companies,<br />

as well as an <strong>in</strong>creas<strong>in</strong>gly<br />

attractive location for fund<br />

managers and promoters<br />

RESILIENT EU ECONOMY<br />

the subsequent adoption of the euro <strong>in</strong> 2008, was the catalyst for its transformation <strong>in</strong>to<br />

a competitive f<strong>in</strong>ancial and bus<strong>in</strong>ess services hub. Follow<strong>in</strong>g the country’s f<strong>in</strong>ancial


DOING BUSINESS C YPRUS<br />

12<br />

UNITED ARAB EMIRATES EDITION<br />

crisis <strong>in</strong> 2013, <strong>Cyprus</strong> undertook a major<br />

reform agenda and while still fac<strong>in</strong>g<br />

some economic challenges, the small<br />

EU nation has demonstrated resilience<br />

and an ability to bounce back to growth.<br />

The year 2015 signalled a sooner-thanexpected<br />

exit from recession and a rapid<br />

economic turnaround followed, with 2017<br />

record<strong>in</strong>g almost 4% growth – earn<strong>in</strong>g<br />

<strong>Cyprus</strong> praise as an economic success<br />

story. <strong>Cyprus</strong>’ resilience <strong>in</strong> the face of the<br />

pandemic was once aga<strong>in</strong> evident with<br />

GDP growth reach<strong>in</strong>g a strong 5.5% <strong>in</strong><br />

2021, although the European Commission<br />

forecasts a downturn to 3.2% growth <strong>in</strong><br />

2022. Consistent credit rat<strong>in</strong>g upgrades<br />

have further boosted confidence and<br />

foreign direct <strong>in</strong>vestment has been<br />

flow<strong>in</strong>g <strong>in</strong>to all key sectors. <strong>Cyprus</strong> has<br />

reta<strong>in</strong>ed and strengthened its status as an<br />

attractive <strong>in</strong>vestment gateway to the EU<br />

and other high-growth markets, as well<br />

as a secure base to tap <strong>in</strong>to opportunities<br />

<strong>in</strong> the Middle East. Offer<strong>in</strong>g a tax-efficient<br />

EU company domicile, the country is also<br />

emerg<strong>in</strong>g as a compell<strong>in</strong>g dest<strong>in</strong>ation<br />

for regional headquarters and a base for<br />

tech companies, as well as an <strong>in</strong>creas<strong>in</strong>gly<br />

attractive location for fund managers and<br />

promoters.<br />

GROWING INVESTMENT FUND SECTOR<br />

<strong>Cyprus</strong> has big ambitions <strong>in</strong> the<br />

<strong>in</strong>vestment funds sector to establish<br />

itself as a contender <strong>in</strong> the global asset<br />

management <strong>in</strong>dustry. The steady growth<br />

<strong>in</strong> both Assets under Management and <strong>in</strong><br />

the number of fund structures licensed<br />

and active <strong>in</strong> <strong>Cyprus</strong> have underl<strong>in</strong>ed<br />

the strength and appeal of the novice<br />

domicile. Assets under Management<br />

(AuM) have seen a formidable <strong>in</strong>crease<br />

from €2.7 billion <strong>in</strong> 2016 to €11.1 billion <strong>in</strong><br />

the first quarter of 2022, show<strong>in</strong>g that it is<br />

not the sector’s size but its fast growth that<br />

has impressed, and is be<strong>in</strong>g recognised<br />

by the global asset management and<br />

<strong>in</strong>vestor community. Investment funds<br />

CYPRUS FACTS<br />

& FIGURES<br />

EU Member s<strong>in</strong>ce 2004,<br />

Eurozone member s<strong>in</strong>ce 2008<br />

<strong>Cyprus</strong>’ maritime sector accounts<br />

for €1 billion <strong>in</strong> annual revenue and<br />

is around 7% of the island’s GDP<br />

<strong>Cyprus</strong> is an established<br />

<strong>in</strong>ternational bus<strong>in</strong>ess and service<br />

centre for shipp<strong>in</strong>g, f<strong>in</strong>ancial<br />

services and commerce, and is<br />

classified by the World Bank as<br />

a high-<strong>in</strong>come country<br />

Investment funds have already<br />

<strong>in</strong>vested more than €2 billion<br />

<strong>in</strong> several sectors of the Cypriot<br />

economy, such as shipp<strong>in</strong>g,<br />

hospitality, education, healthcare,<br />

and renewable energy


DOING BUSINESS C YPRUS<br />

13<br />

UNITED ARAB EMIRATES EDITION<br />

have already <strong>in</strong>vested more than €2 billion <strong>in</strong> several sectors of the Cypriot economy,<br />

such as shipp<strong>in</strong>g, hospitality, education, healthcare, and renewable energy. <strong>Cyprus</strong><br />

offers both EU-regulated Undertak<strong>in</strong>gs of Collective Investment <strong>in</strong> Transferable<br />

Securities (UCITS) and Alternative Investment Funds (AIFs). In July 2018, the country<br />

upgraded its AIF framework and <strong>in</strong>troduced Registered AIFs (RAIFs), which do not<br />

require authorisation by the supervis<strong>in</strong>g <strong>Cyprus</strong> Securities and Exchange Commission<br />

(CySEC) to commence operations provided they are externally managed by an<br />

Alternative Investment Fund Manager (AIFM) based <strong>in</strong> <strong>Cyprus</strong> or another EU country.<br />

The upgraded legislation has been hailed ‘ground-break<strong>in</strong>g’ and offers a significantly<br />

more time- and cost-efficient means of establish<strong>in</strong>g AIFs <strong>in</strong> <strong>Cyprus</strong>. Today, the majority<br />

of alternative <strong>in</strong>vestment funds <strong>in</strong> <strong>Cyprus</strong> are of a small and medium size and focus<br />

on debt and equity securities, real estate and private equity. However, <strong>Cyprus</strong> has also<br />

attracted larger funds <strong>in</strong>clud<strong>in</strong>g one with assets of €500 million under management.<br />

The number of alternative <strong>in</strong>vestment funds has more than doubled <strong>in</strong> the last five<br />

years and foreign UCITS are now widely marketed <strong>in</strong> <strong>Cyprus</strong>, <strong>in</strong>clud<strong>in</strong>g ones promoted<br />

by <strong>in</strong>ternational f<strong>in</strong>ancial <strong>in</strong>stitutions such as JP Morgan, UBS and Julius Baer.<br />

GLOBAL SHIPPING HUB<br />

major success story for <strong>Cyprus</strong> has been the maritime sector, which accounts for<br />

A around €1 billion <strong>in</strong> annual revenue and approximately 7% of the island’s GDP<br />

– and of this figure, shipmanagement alone accounts for 5%. Apart from offer<strong>in</strong>g<br />

shipmanagement and bus<strong>in</strong>ess services to the <strong>in</strong>dustry, the <strong>Cyprus</strong> Registry is<br />

classified as the third largest merchant fleet <strong>in</strong> the European Union and the 11 th largest<br />

<strong>in</strong> the world. The country is also the EU’s largest shipmanagement centre and amongst<br />

the top three <strong>in</strong> the world. The sector has seen growth <strong>in</strong> the past few years and <strong>Cyprus</strong><br />

is currently look<strong>in</strong>g at restructur<strong>in</strong>g the commercial shipp<strong>in</strong>g sector to strengthen its<br />

competitive edge. S<strong>in</strong>ce <strong>in</strong>troduc<strong>in</strong>g an advantageous EU-approved tonnage tax system<br />

<strong>in</strong> 2010, the island has cont<strong>in</strong>ued to attract <strong>in</strong>creas<strong>in</strong>g numbers of shipp<strong>in</strong>g companies<br />

from across the world. The country’s maritime capital, Limassol, is home to some of the<br />

most <strong>in</strong>fluential names <strong>in</strong> shipp<strong>in</strong>g today manag<strong>in</strong>g around 20% of the world’s thirdparty<br />

managed fleet.<br />

I<br />

Apart from offer<strong>in</strong>g shipmanagement and<br />

bus<strong>in</strong>ess services to the <strong>in</strong>dustry, the<br />

<strong>Cyprus</strong> Registry is classified as the third<br />

largest merchant fleet <strong>in</strong> the European<br />

Union and the 11th largest <strong>in</strong> the world.


DOING BUSINESS C YPRUS<br />

14<br />

UNITED ARAB EMIRATES EDITION<br />

Apart from the sun and the sea,<br />

<strong>Cyprus</strong> has few natural resources<br />

and has been dependent on oil imports<br />

to satisfy its energy demands. However,<br />

the substantial discovery of natural gas<br />

and potential oil deposits <strong>in</strong> <strong>Cyprus</strong>’<br />

Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) <strong>in</strong><br />

the Mediterranean Sea is expected to<br />

change all this. Exploratory drill<strong>in</strong>gs by<br />

global energy giants have confirmed<br />

natural gas reserves that could meet<br />

<strong>Cyprus</strong>’ domestic gas demand for over<br />

EAST MED ENERGY CENTRE<br />

IThe country’s top-tier<br />

universities and research<br />

<strong>in</strong>stitutes are also play<strong>in</strong>g a<br />

pivotal part <strong>in</strong> these efforts<br />

to create a more susta<strong>in</strong>able<br />

energy mix through <strong>in</strong>novation<br />

<strong>in</strong> smart tech and research <strong>in</strong><br />

ways to battle climate change<br />

100 years, and a surplus for export. The<br />

hydrocarbons race <strong>in</strong> <strong>Cyprus</strong>’ waters has attracted <strong>in</strong>ternational energy heavyweights,<br />

such as Total, ENI, Kogas, Royal Dutch Shell, and ExxonMobil to explore the island’s<br />

waters for new discoveries and multiple auxiliary services companies have set up<br />

to support these efforts. With 340 days of sunsh<strong>in</strong>e to harness, solar energy has also<br />

become a bit of a boom segment for <strong>Cyprus</strong> recently. The government is plac<strong>in</strong>g strong<br />

focus on renewable energy and work<strong>in</strong>g towards achiev<strong>in</strong>g a zero-carbon economy.<br />

The country’s top-tier universities and research <strong>in</strong>stitutes are also play<strong>in</strong>g a pivotal role<br />

<strong>in</strong> these efforts to create a more susta<strong>in</strong>able energy mix through <strong>in</strong>novation <strong>in</strong> smart<br />

tech and research <strong>in</strong> ways to battle climate change.<br />

TECH AND INNOVATION TAKING THE LEAD<br />

The technology space <strong>in</strong> <strong>Cyprus</strong> is see<strong>in</strong>g a fresh boost with more state support to the<br />

sector, the launch of new national strategies to <strong>in</strong>tegrate <strong>in</strong>novative tech, and fresh<br />

<strong>in</strong>centives to attract more digital nomads, IT start-ups and regional headquarters. With<br />

its new focus on long-term development outcomes, <strong>Cyprus</strong> is determ<strong>in</strong>ed to diversify<br />

and harness growth with a technology-driven economy. The biggest spender by far on<br />

IT <strong>in</strong> <strong>Cyprus</strong> is the f<strong>in</strong>ancial sector, followed by the telecoms providers and the public<br />

service. Albeit one of the smallest EU member states, research and development is an<br />

area where <strong>Cyprus</strong> punches well above its weight. Unprecedented <strong>in</strong>vestment <strong>in</strong>to the<br />

sector and ground-break<strong>in</strong>g projects are establish<strong>in</strong>g this small island, not only as an<br />

<strong>in</strong>novation and research hub, but as a regional centre of excellence provid<strong>in</strong>g strong<br />

l<strong>in</strong>ks with the global scientific and technical <strong>in</strong>novation community.<br />

POPULAR TOURISM DESTINATION<br />

Tourism has been a key driv<strong>in</strong>g force of the Cypriot economy for decades, and pre-<br />

Covid the country saw consecutive years of record-break<strong>in</strong>g numbers of tourist<br />

arrivals and revenue. Although the pandemic temporarily stifled the thriv<strong>in</strong>g sector,<br />

tourist arrival figures are rebound<strong>in</strong>g and new projects currently underway are<br />

set to strengthen and upgrade <strong>Cyprus</strong>’ tourism product and encourage more yearround<br />

visitors, a strategy <strong>Cyprus</strong> is fully committed to. These projects range from the<br />

construction of new golf courses, luxury mar<strong>in</strong>a developments and the upgrad<strong>in</strong>g of<br />

the island’s wellness and medical tourism product. A new and excit<strong>in</strong>g prospect is the


DOING BUSINESS C YPRUS<br />

15<br />

UNITED ARAB EMIRATES EDITION<br />

Kourion<br />

current construction of the Republic’s first-ever luxury cas<strong>in</strong>o resort. The €600 million<br />

<strong>in</strong>tegrated resort, run by a consortium with renowned Hong Kong player Melco, will<br />

exceed five-star status and open a whole new market for niche tourism on the island.<br />

ATTRACTIVE REAL ESTATE<br />

The <strong>Cyprus</strong> real estate sector was show<strong>in</strong>g strong market performance straight<br />

through to 2019, but 2020 marked a turn<strong>in</strong>g po<strong>in</strong>t as the pandemic hit worldwide.<br />

However, by October 2021, sales to the European market <strong>in</strong>creased 68% and 2022<br />

has shown dynamic momentum <strong>in</strong> sales so far. <strong>Cyprus</strong>’ appeal has rema<strong>in</strong>ed strong<br />

amongst <strong>in</strong>ternational <strong>in</strong>vestors, expats and retirees thanks to its Mediterranean<br />

climate, high quality of life and safety, as well as its status as an EU member state<br />

conveniently located between three cont<strong>in</strong>ents. <strong>Cyprus</strong> has one of the highest home<br />

ownership rates <strong>in</strong> Europe and also has a longstand<strong>in</strong>g market for second homes and<br />

holiday villas, mak<strong>in</strong>g the economy heavily reliant on the sector. With new up-market<br />

developments, <strong>in</strong>creased foreign <strong>in</strong>vestment <strong>in</strong> top hotels and major <strong>in</strong>frastructure<br />

projects spr<strong>in</strong>g<strong>in</strong>g up, <strong>Cyprus</strong>’ attractiveness as a property <strong>in</strong>vestment location is set to<br />

grow <strong>in</strong> the com<strong>in</strong>g years.<br />

Limassol Mar<strong>in</strong>a


DOING BUSINESS C YPRUS<br />

16<br />

UNITED ARAB EMIRATES EDITION<br />

FDI APPEAL<br />

<strong>Cyprus</strong>’ FDI appeal has been on an upward trajectory thanks to a robust economy.<br />

Real GDP growth averaged 4.6% <strong>in</strong> 2015-19 and <strong>in</strong> 2021 the economy showed<br />

strong performance with 5.5% growth, rega<strong>in</strong><strong>in</strong>g lost ground from the height of the<br />

Covid-19 pandemic. For the last several years, <strong>Cyprus</strong> has been a hive of activity with<br />

several notable projects already implemented or <strong>in</strong> the pipel<strong>in</strong>e, strengthen<strong>in</strong>g the<br />

country’s image and appeal. Foreign <strong>in</strong>vestment flows have been significant. In the<br />

ten-year period 2011-2020, cumulative net FDI reached €22.2 billion. This <strong>in</strong>vestment<br />

was driven by equity, with the shipp<strong>in</strong>g/shipp<strong>in</strong>g f<strong>in</strong>ance and real estate sectors<br />

play<strong>in</strong>g a significant role, while <strong>in</strong>vestment <strong>in</strong> communications is now also beg<strong>in</strong>n<strong>in</strong>g<br />

to ga<strong>in</strong> importance. Ongo<strong>in</strong>g improvements <strong>in</strong> the macroeconomic and f<strong>in</strong>ancial<br />

environment have also revived <strong>in</strong>ternational <strong>in</strong>terest <strong>in</strong> around 30 major development<br />

projects on the island. Investment opportunities <strong>in</strong> <strong>Cyprus</strong>’ large-scale projects span<br />

various sectors, <strong>in</strong>clud<strong>in</strong>g high-value tourism and hous<strong>in</strong>g developments, projects with<br />

a special focus on golf courses and luxury mar<strong>in</strong>as, as well as education, energy, and<br />

more recently the <strong>in</strong>ternational film sector. The growth performance of <strong>Cyprus</strong> over<br />

the last five years has been exceptional and even exceeded <strong>in</strong>ternational expectations,<br />

while successive credit rat<strong>in</strong>g upgrades and new <strong>in</strong>centives have attracted billions <strong>in</strong><br />

foreign <strong>in</strong>vestment s<strong>in</strong>ce 2015, with significant <strong>in</strong>flows from the US, Asia, Russia and the<br />

Middle East. <strong>Cyprus</strong>’ liberalised Foreign Direct Investment Policy, both for EU citizens<br />

and <strong>in</strong>vestors from third countries, along with its favourable tax regime makes it one of<br />

the most attractive centres for FDI <strong>in</strong> Europe.<br />

Parklane Limassol<br />

A DIVERSIFIED FUTURE<br />

Offer<strong>in</strong>g a professional yet relaxed atmosphere that makes do<strong>in</strong>g bus<strong>in</strong>ess<br />

pleasurable as well as profitable, <strong>Cyprus</strong>’ Mediterranean lifestyle coexists happily<br />

with a cutt<strong>in</strong>g-edge <strong>in</strong>ternational bus<strong>in</strong>ess hub, allow<strong>in</strong>g <strong>in</strong>vestors to enjoy the best of<br />

both worlds: a safe and comfortable environment for family life and a sophisticated<br />

<strong>in</strong>frastructure from which to grow and develop bus<strong>in</strong>ess. <strong>Cyprus</strong> comb<strong>in</strong>es numerous<br />

advantages as a bus<strong>in</strong>ess base with its EU-approved tax regime, competitive 12.5%<br />

corporate tax rate and tax breaks for high earners, its pro-bus<strong>in</strong>ess government<br />

and highly skilled workforce – as well as promis<strong>in</strong>g growth and development across<br />

numerous economic sectors. With <strong>Cyprus</strong>’ prospects on the rise, the country has all the<br />

right elements firmly <strong>in</strong> place to strengthen its reputation as an <strong>in</strong>ternational centre of<br />

bus<strong>in</strong>ess excellence <strong>in</strong> one of Europe’s most <strong>in</strong>terest<strong>in</strong>g <strong>in</strong>vestment locations. n


THERE IS A PLACE WHERE…<br />

you have a local partner<br />

on the ground.<br />

As the national <strong>in</strong>vestment authority, Invest<br />

<strong>Cyprus</strong> acts as a s<strong>in</strong>gle po<strong>in</strong>t of contact and one<br />

stop shop for exist<strong>in</strong>g and potential <strong>in</strong>vestors.<br />

Our dedicated team provides after care and<br />

facilitation services, <strong>in</strong>clud<strong>in</strong>g support<strong>in</strong>g you <strong>in</strong><br />

site selection, sett<strong>in</strong>g up offices, staff immigration<br />

and relocation procedures while cont<strong>in</strong>u<strong>in</strong>g to<br />

grow its extensive portfolio of available<br />

projects and <strong>in</strong>vestment opportunities.<br />

www.<strong>in</strong>vestcyprus.org.cy


DOING BUSINESS C YPRUS<br />

18<br />

UNITED ARAB EMIRATES EDITION<br />

INSIGHT<br />

M<strong>in</strong>ister of Energy, Commerce and Industry<br />

Natasa Pilides


DOING BUSINESS C YPRUS<br />

19<br />

UNITED ARAB EMIRATES EDITION<br />

<strong>Cyprus</strong> and the <strong>UAE</strong> have a strong partnership <strong>in</strong><br />

multiple areas, which sectors are provid<strong>in</strong>g the most<br />

<strong>in</strong>vestment potential at the moment? How can <strong>Cyprus</strong><br />

facilitate more bus<strong>in</strong>ess from the <strong>UAE</strong> and make itself<br />

even more attractive to <strong>in</strong>vestors from the Emirates?<br />

<strong>Cyprus</strong> and the <strong>UAE</strong> ma<strong>in</strong>ta<strong>in</strong> a structured cooperation, which is now witness<strong>in</strong>g<br />

a significant expansion <strong>in</strong> bilateral political and economic ties. Both countries<br />

have signed several bilateral agreements on Avoidance of Double Taxation, Economic<br />

and Technical Cooperation and Reciprocal Promotion and Protection of Investments<br />

(prepared and will be signed soon), whilst also hav<strong>in</strong>g established <strong>in</strong> 2020 a Jo<strong>in</strong>t<br />

Committee of Cooperation. More recently, a Jo<strong>in</strong>t Declaration on the Establishment<br />

of Comprehensive Strategic Partnership, a Memorandum of Understand<strong>in</strong>g on<br />

Cooperation <strong>in</strong> the field of Maritime Transport, a Memorandum of Understand<strong>in</strong>g<br />

on Cyber Security Cooperation and a Memorandum of Understand<strong>in</strong>g <strong>in</strong> the Field of<br />

Diplomatic Tra<strong>in</strong><strong>in</strong>g, have been signed.<br />

Over the past few years, <strong>Cyprus</strong> has seen more <strong>in</strong>terest from the United Arab<br />

Emirates <strong>in</strong> terms of <strong>in</strong>vestments <strong>in</strong> the services sector, which materialised for<br />

example through the award to DP World, a <strong>UAE</strong> Government entity, of a 25-year<br />

concession to operate the multi-purpose port term<strong>in</strong>al <strong>in</strong> Limassol <strong>in</strong> April 2016.<br />

Overall, <strong>Cyprus</strong> is also record<strong>in</strong>g high numbers <strong>in</strong> new company registrations,<br />

foreign bus<strong>in</strong>esses relocations and funds and property <strong>in</strong>vestments. <strong>Cyprus</strong>’<br />

competitive advantages lie <strong>in</strong> a comb<strong>in</strong>ation of factors that jo<strong>in</strong>tly make the island<br />

a unique fund jurisdiction; these are <strong>Cyprus</strong>’ European status and access to the<br />

European markets, the country’s ability to offer a cost-effective solution and its<br />

geostrategic position. It goes without say<strong>in</strong>g that flexibility, transparency, quality and<br />

efficiency are also vital and essential pillars of the <strong>Cyprus</strong> fund <strong>in</strong>dustry, which fund<br />

managers and <strong>in</strong>vestors can benefit from.<br />

On the other hand, Cypriot <strong>in</strong>dustrial<br />

products are attract<strong>in</strong>g considerable<br />

<strong>in</strong>terest from <strong>UAE</strong> companies <strong>in</strong> the fields<br />

of pharmaceutical, food, agriculture and<br />

build<strong>in</strong>g materials.<br />

Form<strong>in</strong>g the bridge between Europe,<br />

Africa and Asia, <strong>Cyprus</strong> can certa<strong>in</strong>ly<br />

serve as an ideal location for United Arab<br />

Emirates’ bus<strong>in</strong>esses to establish their<br />

European and regional offices. <strong>Cyprus</strong> is<br />

IForm<strong>in</strong>g the bridge between<br />

Europe, Africa and Asia, <strong>Cyprus</strong><br />

can certa<strong>in</strong>ly serve as an ideal<br />

location for United Arab Emirates’<br />

bus<strong>in</strong>esses to establish their<br />

European and regional offices.<br />

ideally suited for <strong>in</strong>ternational bus<strong>in</strong>ess due to the numerous benefits it has to offer,<br />

<strong>in</strong>clud<strong>in</strong>g a simple, modern and transparent tax, legal and regulatory framework, a<br />

broad range of high-quality professional and f<strong>in</strong>ancial services and high quality of life.


DOING BUSINESS C YPRUS<br />

20<br />

UNITED ARAB EMIRATES EDITION<br />

<strong>Cyprus</strong> is also work<strong>in</strong>g hard to evolve<br />

as a grow<strong>in</strong>g tech hub <strong>in</strong> the European<br />

Union and a promis<strong>in</strong>g location for hightechnology<br />

bus<strong>in</strong>esses. Well-known<br />

<strong>in</strong>ternational technology companies<br />

such as NCR, Wargam<strong>in</strong>g, eToro and 3CX,<br />

already have established their presence<br />

on the island.<br />

I<strong>Cyprus</strong> is also work<strong>in</strong>g hard<br />

to evolve as a grow<strong>in</strong>g tech<br />

hub <strong>in</strong> the European Union and<br />

a promis<strong>in</strong>g location for hightechnology<br />

bus<strong>in</strong>esses.<br />

Committed to constantly improv<strong>in</strong>g the bus<strong>in</strong>ess environment with an emphasis on<br />

high-tech, research and <strong>in</strong>novation companies, the government provides a number<br />

of <strong>in</strong>centives such as the <strong>Cyprus</strong> Intellectual IP Box Regime, particularly beneficial for<br />

<strong>UAE</strong> high-tech companies, as well as other <strong>in</strong>centives to company shareholders and<br />

their employees. <strong>Cyprus</strong> has also recently launched the <strong>Bus<strong>in</strong>ess</strong> Facilitation Unit,<br />

which provides for fast-track<strong>in</strong>g bus<strong>in</strong>ess setup, and has <strong>in</strong>troduced new residence<br />

and employment policies, aim<strong>in</strong>g towards the attraction of highly skilled third country<br />

nationals and digital nomads. n


DOING BUSINESS C YPRUS<br />

22<br />

UNITED ARAB EMIRATES EDITION<br />

FOREIGN DIRECT INVESTMENT<br />

Investment Gateway<br />

<strong>Cyprus</strong> has attracted formidable foreign<br />

<strong>in</strong>vestment from around the world with billions<br />

flow<strong>in</strong>g <strong>in</strong>to new projects <strong>in</strong> multiple sectors,<br />

prov<strong>in</strong>g the island nation cont<strong>in</strong>ues to have a<br />

strong pull factor with global <strong>in</strong>vestors.<br />

<strong>Cyprus</strong> has been a hive of activity <strong>in</strong> recent years, with several notable projects<br />

already implemented or <strong>in</strong> the pipel<strong>in</strong>e, strengthen<strong>in</strong>g the country’s image and<br />

foreign direct <strong>in</strong>vestment (FDI) appeal. Large-scale real estate projects, luxury mar<strong>in</strong>as<br />

and tourism <strong>in</strong>frastructure, coupled with develop<strong>in</strong>g opportunities <strong>in</strong> the energy, asset<br />

management and shipp<strong>in</strong>g sectors have all re<strong>in</strong>forced <strong>Cyprus</strong>’ status as an <strong>in</strong>terest<strong>in</strong>g<br />

<strong>in</strong>vestment dest<strong>in</strong>ation.<br />

An added benefit of <strong>Cyprus</strong> is its geostrategic location and secure and stable EU<br />

environment <strong>in</strong> an often-turbulent region. These factors coupled with the <strong>in</strong>troduction<br />

of new <strong>in</strong>centives are encourag<strong>in</strong>g <strong>in</strong>creas<strong>in</strong>g numbers of companies from across<br />

the world to set up headquarters on the island, solidify<strong>in</strong>g its position as an attractive<br />

gateway to both established and develop<strong>in</strong>g markets. More recently, <strong>Cyprus</strong> has also<br />

started to ga<strong>in</strong> serious traction <strong>in</strong> attract<strong>in</strong>g more <strong>in</strong>novative high-tech organisations<br />

to set up on its shores – rebrand<strong>in</strong>g itself as an emerg<strong>in</strong>g tech hub.


DOING BUSINESS C YPRUS<br />

23<br />

UNITED ARAB EMIRATES EDITION<br />

EXCEEDING EXPECTATIONS<br />

Successive credit rat<strong>in</strong>g upgrades over the years and the cont<strong>in</strong>uous <strong>in</strong>troduction<br />

of new <strong>in</strong>centives have attracted billions <strong>in</strong> foreign <strong>in</strong>vestment to <strong>Cyprus</strong>, with<br />

substantial <strong>in</strong>flows from the US, Asia, the Middle East and Eastern Europe. The sectors<br />

that have seen the most significant FDI so far are: f<strong>in</strong>ance, most notably <strong>in</strong> shipp<strong>in</strong>g;<br />

real estate <strong>in</strong> new luxury developments and <strong>in</strong>frastructure projects; <strong>in</strong>formation and<br />

communication; retail trade; and professional services, <strong>in</strong> particular head-office<br />

activities.<br />

Although hav<strong>in</strong>g faced some serious<br />

economic shocks over the last ten years,<br />

the resilience and growth performance<br />

of <strong>Cyprus</strong> has been exceptional and even<br />

exceeded <strong>in</strong>ternational expectations.<br />

Real GDP growth averaged 5.3% <strong>in</strong> 2015-<br />

19, and while 2020 marked a critical<br />

downturn due to the Covid-19 pandemic, 2021 saw a strong rebound with growth<br />

bounc<strong>in</strong>g back to 5.5%. Foreign <strong>in</strong>vestment flows have been significant. In the tenyear<br />

period 2012-2021, net <strong>in</strong>flows reached almost €18 billion. This <strong>in</strong>vestment was<br />

driven by equity, with the shipp<strong>in</strong>g/shipp<strong>in</strong>g f<strong>in</strong>ance and real estate sectors play<strong>in</strong>g<br />

an important role.<br />

GROWING TECH INVESTMENT<br />

The technology and communications sector <strong>in</strong> <strong>Cyprus</strong> has become fiercely<br />

competitive, with a number of players deploy<strong>in</strong>g cutt<strong>in</strong>g edge solutions to both<br />

<strong>in</strong>crease their local market share and generate growth through the launch of new<br />

technology and products. 5G was rolled out <strong>in</strong> 2021, mak<strong>in</strong>g <strong>Cyprus</strong> the first EU state to<br />

achieve 100% 5G coverage.<br />

<strong>Cyprus</strong> is already home to a number<br />

of major tech firms, such as NCR,<br />

Amdocs, Wargam<strong>in</strong>g, 3CX, Exness,<br />

Bolt, Thomson Reuters, Melsoft Games,<br />

and Nexters, and has ga<strong>in</strong>ed ground<br />

<strong>in</strong> successfully attract<strong>in</strong>g <strong>in</strong>vestment<br />

capital <strong>in</strong> blockcha<strong>in</strong>. The country’s startup<br />

community has also grown stronger<br />

with more than 200 enterprises and<br />

4,000 entrepreneurs, foster<strong>in</strong>g more<br />

opportunities for bus<strong>in</strong>ess angels and<br />

venture capitalists look<strong>in</strong>g to <strong>in</strong>vest<br />

risk capital <strong>in</strong> exchange for equity <strong>in</strong><br />

promis<strong>in</strong>g bus<strong>in</strong>ess ideas. In addition, a<br />

key attraction for high-tech companies<br />

is the <strong>Cyprus</strong> Intellectual IP Box Regime,<br />

I5G was rolled out <strong>in</strong> 2021, mak<strong>in</strong>g<br />

<strong>Cyprus</strong> the first EU state to achieve<br />

100% coverage<br />

IIn the ten-year period 2012-2021,<br />

net <strong>in</strong>flows reached almost<br />

€18 billion<br />

which provides a competitive maximum<br />

tax rate of 2.5% on <strong>in</strong>come earned from<br />

IP assets. <strong>Cyprus</strong>’ regime also applies to<br />

a wider range of <strong>in</strong>come compared to


DOING BUSINESS C YPRUS<br />

24<br />

UNITED ARAB EMIRATES EDITION<br />

other European schemes, most of which restrict benefits to <strong>in</strong>come from patents and<br />

supplementary patent certificates.<br />

2022 saw more global names <strong>in</strong>vest <strong>in</strong> <strong>Cyprus</strong>, with European digital neobank<strong>in</strong>g<br />

platform Revolut, valued at US$33 billion, becom<strong>in</strong>g the first entity to receive approval<br />

as a crypto-asset service provider from the <strong>Cyprus</strong> regulator. The authorisation<br />

will enable Revolut to offer crypto services to its 17 million customers <strong>in</strong> the EEA<br />

out of a new crypto-asset hub <strong>in</strong> <strong>Cyprus</strong>. Revolut said its choice was down to the<br />

sophisticated regulatory regime of the country, which has already attracted the likes<br />

of Crypto.com, eToro and BitPanda. A lead<strong>in</strong>g US consumer services and applications<br />

software provider, TangoMe, also announced plans to launch offices <strong>in</strong> <strong>Cyprus</strong>. The<br />

<strong>in</strong>ternationally renowned tech company, with an annual revenue of around US$350<br />

million, will establish a strong presence <strong>in</strong> Limassol with a sizeable number of<br />

employees relocat<strong>in</strong>g to <strong>Cyprus</strong>.<br />

Another project set to bolster <strong>Cyprus</strong>’ efforts to become a regional telecoms and data<br />

hub and attract more <strong>in</strong>vestment, was <strong>Cyprus</strong>’ lead<strong>in</strong>g telecoms provider Cyta sign<strong>in</strong>g<br />

a €850 million venture with Greece and Saudi Arabia for the construction of the East<br />

Med Corridor (EMC) for a global digital highway l<strong>in</strong>k<strong>in</strong>g Europe with Asia. In addition,<br />

the modernisation of state <strong>in</strong>frastructure and speed<strong>in</strong>g up the adoption of cloud<br />

services <strong>in</strong> <strong>Cyprus</strong> were key targets of the sign<strong>in</strong>g of a Memorandum of Understand<strong>in</strong>g<br />

with Amazon Web Services (AWS) <strong>in</strong> 2022, a collaboration that will open up a new era<br />

of opportunities.<br />

INVESTING IN EDUCATION<br />

<strong>Cyprus</strong> is develop<strong>in</strong>g <strong>in</strong>to a regional<br />

education and knowledge hub with<br />

the rapid expansion of tertiary education<br />

and its universities steadily climb<strong>in</strong>g up<br />

global rank<strong>in</strong>gs. The country has already<br />

established synergies with <strong>in</strong>ternational<br />

universities, most notably the University<br />

of Nicosia launch<strong>in</strong>g the island’s first degree<br />

programme <strong>in</strong> medic<strong>in</strong>e <strong>in</strong> collaboration<br />

with St George’s Medical School at<br />

the University of London, and University<br />

of Central Lancashire – <strong>Cyprus</strong> (UCLan),<br />

IThe number of foreign<br />

students choos<strong>in</strong>g <strong>Cyprus</strong><br />

for their studies has almost<br />

tripled <strong>in</strong> the last five years,<br />

represent<strong>in</strong>g over 60 different<br />

countries and support<strong>in</strong>g the<br />

growth of <strong>Cyprus</strong> <strong>in</strong>to a true<br />

global educational centre


DOING BUSINESS C YPRUS<br />

25<br />

UNITED ARAB EMIRATES EDITION<br />

18th<br />

á 50 PLACES<br />

<strong>Cyprus</strong> ranked <strong>in</strong> 18th place <strong>in</strong> the<br />

2021 Greenfield FDI Performance<br />

Index, climb<strong>in</strong>g 50 places<br />

compared to the year before<br />

á150%<br />

Greenfield <strong>in</strong>vestments <strong>in</strong> <strong>Cyprus</strong><br />

rose by 150% <strong>in</strong> the first half of 2022<br />

from the same period of 2019<br />

Top 10<br />

<strong>Cyprus</strong> is <strong>in</strong> the top10<br />

rank<strong>in</strong>g of countries that<br />

stand out for the post-pandemic<br />

<strong>in</strong>vestment recovery<br />

á600%<br />

<strong>in</strong>crease <strong>in</strong> software and<br />

IT <strong>in</strong>vestments <strong>in</strong> <strong>Cyprus</strong><br />

between 2019 and 2022<br />

Source: FDI Intelligence<br />

Source: FDI Intelligence<br />

CUMULATIVE FDI LIABILITIES (INVESTMENTS) BY SECTOR 2016-2020<br />

Sector<br />

€/Billion<br />

F<strong>in</strong>ance & Insurance 41.7<br />

Real Estate 4.8<br />

Information & Communication 1.4<br />

Professional Scientific & Technical 1.3<br />

Total (<strong>in</strong>clud<strong>in</strong>g others) 52.7<br />

be<strong>in</strong>g the first British university to establish a campus on the island. This has s<strong>in</strong>ce<br />

been followed by the announcement of the American University of Beirut (AUB) to establish<br />

a €29 million campus <strong>in</strong> Paphos <strong>in</strong> 2023 – branded the American University of<br />

Beirut-Mediterraneo. The aim is to accommodate over 2,000 students <strong>in</strong> the com<strong>in</strong>g<br />

years.<br />

<strong>Cyprus</strong> hosts an impressive and<br />

fast-grow<strong>in</strong>g R&I ecosystem, featur<strong>in</strong>g<br />

high quality academic and research <strong>in</strong>stitutions<br />

and six Centres of Excellence (CoE).<br />

The <strong>Cyprus</strong> Institute has established itself<br />

as a significant research <strong>in</strong>stitute with<br />

global networks of excellence supported<br />

by significant EU fund<strong>in</strong>g. The number<br />

I<strong>Cyprus</strong> hosts an impressive and<br />

fast-grow<strong>in</strong>g R&I ecosystem,<br />

featur<strong>in</strong>g high quality academic<br />

and research <strong>in</strong>stitutions and<br />

six Centres of Excellence (CoE)<br />

of foreign students choos<strong>in</strong>g <strong>Cyprus</strong> for their studies has almost tripled <strong>in</strong> the last five<br />

years, represent<strong>in</strong>g over 60 different countries and support<strong>in</strong>g the growth of <strong>Cyprus</strong><br />

<strong>in</strong>to a true global educational centre. This fact underl<strong>in</strong>es the great opportunities that<br />

exist <strong>in</strong> <strong>Cyprus</strong> for the establishment of new universities, colleges and <strong>in</strong>stitutes.


DOING BUSINESS C YPRUS<br />

26<br />

UNITED ARAB EMIRATES EDITION<br />

PORTS AND SHIPPING<br />

The 2017 commercialisation of the country’s largest port <strong>in</strong> Limassol marked a new<br />

era for <strong>Cyprus</strong> as a commercial hub. The port privatisation came <strong>in</strong> the context of<br />

the first discovery of natural gas <strong>in</strong> 2011, the launch of the €300 million VTTV oil trad<strong>in</strong>g<br />

term<strong>in</strong>al <strong>in</strong> 2014, and a dedicated Shipp<strong>in</strong>g Deputy M<strong>in</strong>ister <strong>in</strong> 2018. The privatisation<br />

deal with Eurogate International GmbH and lead<strong>in</strong>g Emirati logistics giant DP World<br />

Limited is expected to boost state coffers with €2 billion over the next 25 years, while<br />

the new port operators have <strong>in</strong>jected millions <strong>in</strong> upgrad<strong>in</strong>g services and <strong>in</strong>frastructure.<br />

The more recent contract for the Larnaca<br />

port and mar<strong>in</strong>a was signed with<br />

a Cypriot-Israeli consortium, Eldeman<br />

Hold<strong>in</strong>g BV and Alexandrou Corporate<br />

Services Ltd, <strong>in</strong> late 2020 and is expected<br />

to attract around €1.2 billion <strong>in</strong> construction<br />

and real estate development – mak<strong>in</strong>g<br />

it one of the biggest <strong>in</strong>frastructure <strong>in</strong>vestments<br />

to date <strong>in</strong> <strong>Cyprus</strong>.<br />

One of <strong>Cyprus</strong>’ most successful export<br />

services has been the maritime <strong>in</strong>dustry.<br />

The growth of <strong>Cyprus</strong>’ resident shipp<strong>in</strong>g<br />

sector over the past 50 years has developed<br />

IThere has been a fivefold<br />

<strong>in</strong>crease <strong>in</strong> the number of<br />

shipp<strong>in</strong>g companies that have<br />

registered with <strong>Cyprus</strong>’<br />

specialised shipp<strong>in</strong>g<br />

taxation system<br />

boost<strong>in</strong>g the sector’s<br />

revenue by around 25%<br />

a strong maritime cluster that caters to the<br />

needs of <strong>Cyprus</strong>-based companies, <strong>in</strong>clud<strong>in</strong>g bank<strong>in</strong>g, professional services, <strong>in</strong>surance<br />

and IT. The cluster is consistently attract<strong>in</strong>g more quality tonnage and shipp<strong>in</strong>g-related<br />

companies to its shores. Between 2010 – when the <strong>Cyprus</strong> tonnage tax system was<br />

approved by the European Commission – and 2021, there has been a fivefold <strong>in</strong>crease<br />

<strong>in</strong> the number of shipp<strong>in</strong>g companies that have registered with <strong>Cyprus</strong>’ specialised<br />

shipp<strong>in</strong>g taxation system, boost<strong>in</strong>g the sector’s revenue by around 25%.


DOING BUSINESS C YPRUS<br />

27<br />

UNITED ARAB EMIRATES EDITION<br />

Some examples <strong>in</strong>clude the decision <strong>in</strong> 2018 by lead<strong>in</strong>g London ship <strong>in</strong>surer P&I Club<br />

to open a post-Brexit EU subsidiary <strong>in</strong> <strong>Cyprus</strong>, reaffirm<strong>in</strong>g the island’s position as one<br />

of the top global hubs for shipp<strong>in</strong>g. Another triumph came <strong>in</strong> early 2019, when British<br />

shipp<strong>in</strong>g firm P&O Ferries decided to register its English Channel operat<strong>in</strong>g fleet<br />

under the <strong>Cyprus</strong> flag to take advantage of the benefits and security it provides. Two<br />

of the <strong>in</strong>dustry’s most highly respected privately-owned shipmanagement companies,<br />

Columbia Shipmanagement and Marlow Navigation – both based <strong>in</strong> <strong>Cyprus</strong> – merged<br />

<strong>in</strong> 2017 to form Columbia Marlow, creat<strong>in</strong>g one of the world’s largest ship and crewmanagement<br />

companies. Another transaction constitut<strong>in</strong>g FDI was the 2018 buyout<br />

of Limassol-based Songa Offshore SE by Transocean Ltd, the world’s largest offshore<br />

drill<strong>in</strong>g contractor for oil and gas wells, <strong>in</strong> a deal worth US$3.4 billion. In addition,<br />

natural gas f<strong>in</strong>ds with<strong>in</strong> <strong>Cyprus</strong>’ Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) and efforts to exploit<br />

it <strong>in</strong> cooperation with neighbour<strong>in</strong>g countries have expanded opportunities for the<br />

island’s already thriv<strong>in</strong>g shipp<strong>in</strong>g sector.<br />

DEVELOPING AN ENERGY HUB<br />

<strong>Cyprus</strong>’ hydrocarbons discoveries captured the attention of global energy<br />

heavyweights when US company Noble Energy, now acquired by US giant Chevron,<br />

made the first natural gas discovery <strong>in</strong> 2011 with estimated resources of 4.5 trillion cubic<br />

feet (tcf) <strong>in</strong> the Aphrodite field. ENI, Kogas, ExxonMobil, Royal Dutch Shell, and Total<br />

have all secured exploration licences and conducted exploratory drill<strong>in</strong>g. ExxonMobil<br />

announced the discovery of an estimated 5 to 8 tcf <strong>in</strong> Block 10 <strong>in</strong> early 2019, while ENI<br />

confirmed a discovery <strong>in</strong> Block 6 – which it operates with Total – of around 2.5 tcf <strong>in</strong><br />

August 2022. Further discoveries could be announced with<strong>in</strong> the next year.<br />

In 2019 <strong>Cyprus</strong> agreed to build a subsea pipel<strong>in</strong>e connect<strong>in</strong>g Aphrodite to Egypt’s<br />

liquefaction plants and concluded a production-shar<strong>in</strong>g deal with Noble Energy (now<br />

Chevron) and its partners over the Aphrodite gas reservoir. The development of<br />

ENI, Kogas, ExxonMobil,<br />

Royal Dutch Shell,<br />

and Total have all<br />

secured exploration<br />

licences and conducted<br />

exploratory drill<strong>in</strong>g


DOING BUSINESS C YPRUS<br />

28<br />

UNITED ARAB EMIRATES EDITION<br />

Aphrodite is now expected <strong>in</strong> 2026. S<strong>in</strong>ce the start of the pandemic, activity and works<br />

worth US$200 million have been completed <strong>in</strong> <strong>Cyprus</strong>’ EEZ by oil and gas companies,<br />

underl<strong>in</strong><strong>in</strong>g their cont<strong>in</strong>ued commitment to <strong>Cyprus</strong>.<br />

In addition to offshore discoveries <strong>in</strong> the last decade, a range of other new energy<br />

opportunities have come to the fore. In December 2019, <strong>Cyprus</strong> signed a landmark<br />

deal with a Ch<strong>in</strong>ese-led consortium to build a €290 million LNG import term<strong>in</strong>al at<br />

Vassilikos. The consortium construct<strong>in</strong>g the project <strong>in</strong>cludes Ch<strong>in</strong>a Petroleum Pipel<strong>in</strong>e<br />

Eng<strong>in</strong>eer<strong>in</strong>g CO LTD, Metron SA, Hudong-Zhonghua Shipbuild<strong>in</strong>g and Wilhelmsen<br />

Ship Management. The term<strong>in</strong>al will <strong>in</strong>clude a float<strong>in</strong>g storage and regasification unit<br />

(FSRU), a jetty for moor<strong>in</strong>g the FSRU and related <strong>in</strong>frastructure at Vassilikos. The FSRU,<br />

expected to be completed <strong>in</strong> 2023, attracted €150 million <strong>in</strong> f<strong>in</strong>ance from the European<br />

Investment Bank (EIB), €80 million from the European Bank for Reconstruction and<br />

Development (EBRD), €101 million from the EU’s Connect<strong>in</strong>g Europe Facility as well as<br />

an equity contribution of €43 million from the Electricity Authority of <strong>Cyprus</strong> (EAC).<br />

Parallel to this, <strong>Cyprus</strong> has been ramp<strong>in</strong>g up its renewables capacity, with support<br />

from the EU’s €1.2 billion Recovery and Resilience Facility (RFF). The renewable energy<br />

sector could be one of the most attractive areas for <strong>in</strong>vestment and jo<strong>in</strong>t ventures<br />

with other countries. For example, Israel has been <strong>in</strong>terested <strong>in</strong> cooperat<strong>in</strong>g with its<br />

Cypriot counterparts <strong>in</strong> establish<strong>in</strong>g pilot projects where new Israeli tech could be<br />

tested <strong>in</strong> <strong>Cyprus</strong>. Also, the <strong>UAE</strong> and Saudi Arabia have been pioneers <strong>in</strong> clean energy,<br />

especially <strong>in</strong> the field of hydrogen, and are keen to export its RES know-how and create<br />

synergies. For example, Saudi Arabia – dubbed to become one of the biggest producers<br />

of clean energy – could support the EU’s<br />

hydrogen strategy through <strong>Cyprus</strong> as<br />

I<strong>Cyprus</strong> has been ramp<strong>in</strong>g<br />

up its renewables capacity,<br />

with support from the EU’s<br />

€1.2 billion Recovery and<br />

Resilience Facility (RFF)<br />

an <strong>in</strong>terconnector to Saudi’s biggest<br />

hydrogen production plant currently<br />

under construction. The long-awaited full<br />

liberalisation of the electricity production<br />

market <strong>in</strong> <strong>Cyprus</strong> has seen many delays,<br />

but once this materialises it would


DOING BUSINESS C YPRUS<br />

29<br />

UNITED ARAB EMIRATES EDITION<br />

allow a fresh <strong>in</strong>flow of new private players operat<strong>in</strong>g <strong>in</strong> both renewables and gas to<br />

compete <strong>in</strong> the local market – and <strong>in</strong> a broader regional market thanks to the EuroAsia<br />

Interconnector project to connect <strong>Cyprus</strong>, Israel and Greece via submar<strong>in</strong>e electricity<br />

cable and the related EuroAfrica Interconnector to connect Egypt.<br />

STABLE BANKING SECTOR AND GROWING INVESTMENT FUNDS<br />

Today, <strong>Cyprus</strong> banks ma<strong>in</strong>ta<strong>in</strong> high levels of capital adequacy and liquidity but<br />

cont<strong>in</strong>ue to grapple with manag<strong>in</strong>g their non-perform<strong>in</strong>g loan (NPL) portfolios.<br />

The restructur<strong>in</strong>g of the bank<strong>in</strong>g sector after 2013 attracted important <strong>in</strong>ternational<br />

<strong>in</strong>stitutional <strong>in</strong>vestors and fresh foreign capital and encouraged accelerated sales of<br />

NPLs. These developments substantially<br />

reduced risk and enabled the f<strong>in</strong>ancial<br />

system to operate on a healthier basis.<br />

The island also hosts a thriv<strong>in</strong>g forex<br />

<strong>in</strong>dustry with many global giants bas<strong>in</strong>g<br />

their operational headquarters <strong>in</strong> <strong>Cyprus</strong>.<br />

In addition, the <strong>in</strong>vestment funds sector<br />

has grown exponentially <strong>in</strong> the last few<br />

years with Assets under Management<br />

(AuM) see<strong>in</strong>g a stagger<strong>in</strong>g <strong>in</strong>crease from<br />

€2.7 billion <strong>in</strong> 2016 to €11.1 billion <strong>in</strong> the<br />

first quarter of 2022, prov<strong>in</strong>g <strong>Cyprus</strong><br />

is be<strong>in</strong>g recognised by the global asset<br />

management community. Investment<br />

funds have already <strong>in</strong>vested more than<br />

€2 billion <strong>in</strong> several sectors of the Cypriot<br />

economy, such as shipp<strong>in</strong>g, hospitality,<br />

education, healthcare, and renewable<br />

energy.<br />

IThe <strong>in</strong>vestment funds sector<br />

LUXURY TOURISM AND HIGH-END REAL ESTATE<br />

has grown exponentially <strong>in</strong><br />

the last few years with Assets<br />

under Management (AuM)<br />

see<strong>in</strong>g a stagger<strong>in</strong>g <strong>in</strong>crease<br />

from €2.7 billion <strong>in</strong> 2016 to<br />

€11.1 billion<br />

<strong>in</strong> the first quarter of 2022,<br />

prov<strong>in</strong>g <strong>Cyprus</strong> is be<strong>in</strong>g<br />

recognised by the global asset<br />

management community<br />

<strong>Cyprus</strong> cont<strong>in</strong>ues to be on the top of the list for <strong>in</strong>vestors, holiday-home seekers, expats<br />

and retirees. Tourism and real estate have always been robust sectors of the Cypriot<br />

economy, and a concerted effort to diversify the <strong>Cyprus</strong> offer<strong>in</strong>g <strong>in</strong> recent years has paid<br />

off. The number of foreign <strong>in</strong>vestors clos<strong>in</strong>g multimillion-euro deals <strong>in</strong> the last several<br />

years underl<strong>in</strong>es the fact that tourism-related real estate and <strong>in</strong>frastructure cont<strong>in</strong>ues<br />

to be one of the most attractive <strong>in</strong>vestment opportunities <strong>in</strong> <strong>Cyprus</strong>. Pre-pandemic years<br />

of record-break<strong>in</strong>g tourism numbers saw the island attract new <strong>in</strong>terest <strong>in</strong> conference,<br />

sports, health and wellness tourism. The construction and <strong>in</strong>vestment <strong>in</strong> multipurpose<br />

projects and mixed-use developments such as luxury mar<strong>in</strong>as, golf courses and more<br />

recently the island’s first-ever and only <strong>in</strong>tegrated luxury cas<strong>in</strong>o resort, are all part of<br />

the ongo<strong>in</strong>g strategy to upgrade <strong>Cyprus</strong>’ tourism product. The new cas<strong>in</strong>o resort, City<br />

of Dreams Mediterranean, will have extensive facilities and five-star status. The cas<strong>in</strong>o<br />

resort is Hong Kong-based Melco’s first expansion outside of Asia and will be the biggest<br />

cas<strong>in</strong>o of its k<strong>in</strong>d <strong>in</strong> Europe, with the <strong>in</strong>vestment for this mega project at €600 million.<br />

Spurred by this unique development, <strong>Cyprus</strong> garnered another landmark <strong>in</strong>vestment<br />

deal <strong>in</strong> 2022 with Israeli bus<strong>in</strong>ess magnate Gilad Shabtai <strong>in</strong>vest<strong>in</strong>g <strong>in</strong> over 130,000 m 2


DOING BUSINESS C YPRUS<br />

30<br />

UNITED ARAB EMIRATES EDITION<br />

Artist Impression: City of Dreams Mediterranean<br />

Artist Impression: Grand Hyatt Limassol<br />

Artist Impression: Ritz-Carlton Residences<br />

IMajor <strong>in</strong>vestments have also<br />

of land for development surround<strong>in</strong>g the<br />

new <strong>in</strong>tegrated cas<strong>in</strong>o resort <strong>in</strong> Limassol.<br />

been made <strong>in</strong> the hospitality<br />

The dest<strong>in</strong>ation and value of the area are<br />

set to be elevated by this key real estate<br />

<strong>in</strong>dustry with acquisitions<br />

<strong>in</strong>vestment.<br />

and the construction of new<br />

Proposals <strong>in</strong>clude the development<br />

of exclusive seven-star facilities<br />

luxury hotels by renowned<br />

provid<strong>in</strong>g bespoke services for owners<br />

hotel management cha<strong>in</strong>s<br />

and <strong>in</strong>vestors. Plans are also <strong>in</strong> place<br />

for additional <strong>in</strong>vestment by the former<br />

majority shareholder of telecoms start-up Viber <strong>in</strong>to the further expansion of the area<br />

<strong>in</strong> the future – which is a solid vote of confidence <strong>in</strong> the vast growth potential of <strong>Cyprus</strong>.<br />

Follow<strong>in</strong>g the success of Limassol Mar<strong>in</strong>a, more <strong>in</strong>vestment has flowed <strong>in</strong>to mar<strong>in</strong>a<br />

developments on the Cypriot coast. The €300 million luxury Ayia Napa Mar<strong>in</strong>a is under<br />

construction with berth<strong>in</strong>g facilities and a commercial village now fully operational.<br />

The mar<strong>in</strong>a offers capacity for 600 yachts of up to 60 metres, a shipyard, and a range of


DOING BUSINESS C YPRUS<br />

31<br />

UNITED ARAB EMIRATES EDITION<br />

luxury villas, apartments and facilities. With significant Egyptian <strong>in</strong>vestment back<strong>in</strong>g<br />

the <strong>in</strong>novative project and the seafront residences are expected to be completed by<br />

2023. In addition, the €110 million Paralimni Mar<strong>in</strong>a project is set to be completed <strong>in</strong><br />

2024, while a tender was signed <strong>in</strong> August 2021 with Deloitte Ltd and Triton Consult<strong>in</strong>g<br />

Eng<strong>in</strong>eers SA for a luxury mar<strong>in</strong>a <strong>in</strong> Paphos.<br />

Major <strong>in</strong>vestments have also been made <strong>in</strong> the hospitality <strong>in</strong>dustry with acquisitions<br />

and the construction of new luxury hotels by renowned hotel management cha<strong>in</strong>s. The<br />

Radisson Hotel Group, one of the largest and most dynamic hotel groups <strong>in</strong> the world,<br />

has big plans to grow its exist<strong>in</strong>g portfolio <strong>in</strong> the country to six hotels and almost 1,000<br />

rooms by 2025, one of which is the Radisson Larnaca Beach Resort, the very first beach<br />

resort by the Radisson Hotel Group worldwide.<br />

In 2019, the Luxury Collection, part of Marriott International, opened the Parklane<br />

Luxury Collection Resort & Spa resort <strong>in</strong> Limassol, mark<strong>in</strong>g Marriott International’s<br />

entry <strong>in</strong>to <strong>Cyprus</strong>. In July 2020, Hyatt Hotels Corporation announced a management<br />

agreement with Anolia Hold<strong>in</strong>gs Limited for the launch of the first Hyatt hotel <strong>in</strong> <strong>Cyprus</strong>.<br />

The 300-room luxury resort Grand Hyatt Limassol is expected to open <strong>in</strong> 2025. The<br />

new beachfront resort will also be a key element of Zaria Resort, a mixed-use luxury<br />

development, comprised of residential apartments and private villas totall<strong>in</strong>g more<br />

than 80,000 m 2 . One of the latest projects is the Sofitel Resort & Spa, a jo<strong>in</strong>t venture<br />

between S<strong>in</strong>gapore-headquartered Oxley Hold<strong>in</strong>gs and Planetvision on the Limassol<br />

beachfront. The project will be the first Sofitel Resort with branded residences <strong>in</strong><br />

Europe and is expected to be completed by 2023.<br />

Follow<strong>in</strong>g global trends and faced with an ag<strong>in</strong>g population, <strong>in</strong>vest<strong>in</strong>g <strong>in</strong> health and<br />

wellness developments as well as rehabilitation and bespoke retirement villages has<br />

enormous potential. An early example of this is the Eden Seniors Resort <strong>in</strong> Larnaca<br />

which opened its doors <strong>in</strong> 2018. Paphos is due to see the first dedicated retirement<br />

village <strong>in</strong> <strong>Cyprus</strong>. The €16 million retirement village, branded Lazaris Mill, will consist<br />

of 82 <strong>in</strong>dividual apartments, rang<strong>in</strong>g from studios to larger flats and a small 24-<br />

room hotel, and provide bespoke facilities. The first residents are expected <strong>in</strong> spr<strong>in</strong>g<br />

2023. Another upcom<strong>in</strong>g project <strong>in</strong> Paphos is Cypress Park, a new luxury residential<br />

development turn<strong>in</strong>g retirement <strong>in</strong>to a five-star resort stay.<br />

FOCUS ON INVESTOR SUPPORT<br />

Not one to rest on its laurels, <strong>Cyprus</strong> has been steadily sharpen<strong>in</strong>g its competitive<br />

edge by streaml<strong>in</strong><strong>in</strong>g processes to better cater to <strong>in</strong>vestors and by strengthen<strong>in</strong>g<br />

new sectors to support its already more established <strong>in</strong>dustries.<br />

Investment opportunities <strong>in</strong> <strong>Cyprus</strong>’ large-scale projects span various sectors,<br />

<strong>in</strong>clud<strong>in</strong>g high-value tourism and hous<strong>in</strong>g developments, projects with a special focus<br />

on golf courses and luxury mar<strong>in</strong>as, as well as education, energy, and more lately, the<br />

<strong>in</strong>ternational film sector.<br />

Special schemes and <strong>in</strong>centives are<br />

<strong>in</strong> place to facilitate headquarter<strong>in</strong>g,<br />

which covers the sectors of technology,<br />

asset management, <strong>in</strong>vestment funds,<br />

550 COMPANIES<br />

shipp<strong>in</strong>g and higher education, and<br />

‘Olivewood’ for the <strong>in</strong>ternational film that have relocated or expanded<br />

<strong>in</strong>dustry. A new government Action<br />

their activities <strong>in</strong> <strong>Cyprus</strong><br />

Plan launched <strong>in</strong> 2021 also provides<br />

Ithe BFU has catered to more than


DOING BUSINESS C YPRUS<br />

32<br />

UNITED ARAB EMIRATES EDITION<br />

new <strong>in</strong>centives to attract non-EU talent<br />

and companies to establish operations<br />

<strong>in</strong> <strong>Cyprus</strong>. The recent <strong>in</strong>troduction of a<br />

<strong>Bus<strong>in</strong>ess</strong> Facilitation Unit (BFU) promises<br />

to be a gamechanger for ease of sett<strong>in</strong>g<br />

up <strong>in</strong> <strong>Cyprus</strong>. The BFU specialises <strong>in</strong> fasttrack<strong>in</strong>g<br />

bus<strong>in</strong>ess setup, permitt<strong>in</strong>g and<br />

licens<strong>in</strong>g for companies, their employees<br />

and families, and <strong>in</strong> less than two years of<br />

operation, the BFU has catered to more<br />

than 550 companies that have relocated<br />

or expanded their activities <strong>in</strong> <strong>Cyprus</strong>.<br />

To better facilitate FDI, the country’s<br />

<strong>in</strong>vestment promotion agency, Invest<br />

<strong>Cyprus</strong>, has also developed an onl<strong>in</strong>e<br />

<strong>in</strong>vestment matchmak<strong>in</strong>g platform<br />

branded the Project Bank, to help<br />

<strong>in</strong>vestors identify the right market<br />

opportunities for projects based <strong>in</strong><br />

<strong>Cyprus</strong>. In addition, Invest <strong>Cyprus</strong> hosts<br />

the annual International Investment<br />

Awards, where it honoured seven companies <strong>in</strong> 2022 for their contributions to <strong>Cyprus</strong>,<br />

namely Bra<strong>in</strong>Rocket, ECOMMBX, CVC, TheSoul Publish<strong>in</strong>g, Murex, Medicover and<br />

SYKES.<br />

LOCATION, LOCATION, LOCATION<br />

<strong>Cyprus</strong>’ liberalised FDI Policy, both for EU citizens and <strong>in</strong>vestors from third countries,<br />

along with its favourable tax regime makes it one of the most attractive <strong>in</strong>vestment<br />

targets <strong>in</strong> Europe. At 12.5% <strong>Cyprus</strong>’ corporate tax rate is one of the most competitive <strong>in</strong><br />

the EU and new tax-neutral reforms that are on the way will simplify and modernise<br />

the tax system further. The country’s extensive network of double taxation treaties<br />

with 67 countries have strengthened its position as a bus<strong>in</strong>ess gateway and a preferred<br />

location for corporate headquarters. The country’s skilled talent, low cost of do<strong>in</strong>g<br />

bus<strong>in</strong>ess, top-tier professional services, and high quality of life renders <strong>Cyprus</strong> not only<br />

a wise bus<strong>in</strong>ess and <strong>in</strong>vestment choice but also a great relocation dest<strong>in</strong>ation. n<br />

With solid and cont<strong>in</strong>uous <strong>in</strong>terest <strong>in</strong> the tourism sector, Invest<br />

<strong>Cyprus</strong> has set up a dedicated and specialised unit, TourInvest, to<br />

promote <strong>in</strong>vestment opportunities <strong>in</strong> the tourism and hospitality<br />

sector. In cooperation with the Deputy M<strong>in</strong>istry of Tourism and<br />

other stakeholders, the unit focuses on attract<strong>in</strong>g multimillioneuro<br />

<strong>in</strong>vestment <strong>in</strong>to large-scale <strong>in</strong>frastructure projects


DOING BUSINESS C YPRUS<br />

33<br />

UNITED ARAB EMIRATES EDITION<br />

CYPRUS-<strong>UAE</strong> RELATIONS<br />

C<br />

yprus and the <strong>UAE</strong> have a long history of friendly relations. The<br />

cooperation between the two nations has been strengthened <strong>in</strong><br />

recent years and the Jo<strong>in</strong>t Declaration of February 2022 by the <strong>Cyprus</strong><br />

and <strong>UAE</strong> Governments for a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership set the<br />

framework for further expansion of <strong>Cyprus</strong>’ bilateral relations with the<br />

<strong>UAE</strong> <strong>in</strong> both the political and economic sphere.<br />

Through this partnership, and with the sign<strong>in</strong>g of other significant<br />

Memoranda of Understand<strong>in</strong>g (MoUs) concern<strong>in</strong>g maritime transport,<br />

cyber security, and diplomatic tra<strong>in</strong><strong>in</strong>g, the two countries are focused on<br />

advanc<strong>in</strong>g cooperation <strong>in</strong> fields of mutual and strategic <strong>in</strong>terest.<br />

<strong>Cyprus</strong>’ strategic location only three hours’ flight away from the <strong>UAE</strong><br />

makes it the closest European country to the Gulf region. This, coupled<br />

with <strong>Cyprus</strong>’ strong bus<strong>in</strong>ess centre and EU membership has further<br />

solidified the Mediterranean island’s appeal as a popular dest<strong>in</strong>ation<br />

for <strong>UAE</strong> citizens, <strong>in</strong>vestment and expatriates alike. Similarly, there are<br />

numerous Cypriot companies operat<strong>in</strong>g <strong>in</strong> the <strong>UAE</strong> as well as Cypriots<br />

liv<strong>in</strong>g and work<strong>in</strong>g <strong>in</strong> the Gulf region, contribut<strong>in</strong>g to the bolster<strong>in</strong>g of<br />

bilateral trade relations.<br />

In terms of FDI, <strong>Cyprus</strong> has seen more <strong>in</strong>terest from the United Arab<br />

Emirates <strong>in</strong> terms of <strong>in</strong>vestments <strong>in</strong> the services sector. A prom<strong>in</strong>ent<br />

example of this is the 2016 award to DP World – an Emirati mult<strong>in</strong>ational<br />

company specialis<strong>in</strong>g <strong>in</strong> cargo logistics, port term<strong>in</strong>al operations and<br />

maritime services – of a 25-year concession to operate the multi-purpose<br />

port term<strong>in</strong>al <strong>in</strong> Limassol. Other projects that could be attractive for future<br />

<strong>UAE</strong> <strong>in</strong>vestment <strong>in</strong> <strong>Cyprus</strong> are <strong>in</strong> the sectors of energy, tourism, education,<br />

shipp<strong>in</strong>g and maritime transport.<br />

<strong>Cyprus</strong> is also rapidly becom<strong>in</strong>g a promis<strong>in</strong>g location for hightechnology<br />

bus<strong>in</strong>esses from around the world. The country’s government<br />

has placed strong focus on attract<strong>in</strong>g more research and <strong>in</strong>novation<br />

companies to its shores by <strong>in</strong>troduc<strong>in</strong>g a number of <strong>in</strong>centives such as the<br />

<strong>Cyprus</strong> Intellectual IP Box Regime, particularly beneficial to <strong>UAE</strong> high-tech<br />

companies. Additional pull-factors are <strong>Cyprus</strong>’ world-class services and<br />

advantageous tax and regulatory framework, as well as its cost-effective<br />

bus<strong>in</strong>ess operat<strong>in</strong>g environment compared to larger European bus<strong>in</strong>ess<br />

centres.<br />

Another key area that is of mutual <strong>in</strong>terest to the two countries is the<br />

energy sector. The <strong>UAE</strong> has become a global centre for clean energy <strong>in</strong><br />

all its forms, especially hydrogen, and it is currently one of the lead<strong>in</strong>g<br />

countries <strong>in</strong> develop<strong>in</strong>g this field. The <strong>UAE</strong>’s futuristic vision targets<br />

three pillars: renewable and clean energy; oil, petrochemical and m<strong>in</strong><strong>in</strong>g<br />

<strong>in</strong>dustries; and land and sea transport and storage. With the evolv<strong>in</strong>g<br />

energy developments <strong>in</strong> the Eastern Mediterranean, tak<strong>in</strong>g advantage of<br />

the <strong>UAE</strong>’s knowhow <strong>in</strong> this field could prove useful for <strong>Cyprus</strong>.


DOING BUSINESS C YPRUS<br />

34<br />

UNITED ARAB EMIRATES EDITION<br />

INSIGHT<br />

M<strong>in</strong>ister of Foreign Affairs<br />

Ioannis Kasoulides<br />

<strong>Cyprus</strong> and the United Arab Emirates have nurtured<br />

friendly relations and strong political cooperation<br />

for decades. What are the key pillars that form this<br />

strong diplomatic relationship and how do you see<br />

this bilateral partnership develop<strong>in</strong>g <strong>in</strong> the future?


DOING BUSINESS C YPRUS<br />

35<br />

UNITED ARAB EMIRATES EDITION<br />

O<br />

ur bilateral relations with the United Arab Emirates (<strong>UAE</strong>) have come a long way<br />

<strong>in</strong> the past few years. Historically, our relations are strongly founded on peopleto-people<br />

and bus<strong>in</strong>ess relations. The <strong>UAE</strong> is a second home to many Cypriots and<br />

there are currently numerous Cypriot companies operat<strong>in</strong>g <strong>in</strong> the <strong>UAE</strong>, <strong>in</strong> addition<br />

to the participation of our country <strong>in</strong> the major commercial exhibitions and bus<strong>in</strong>ess<br />

fora, which undoubtedly contributes to the strengthen<strong>in</strong>g of our bilateral relations<br />

with the <strong>UAE</strong>. Only three hours’ flight away from the <strong>UAE</strong>, <strong>Cyprus</strong> has further become<br />

a popular dest<strong>in</strong>ation for <strong>UAE</strong> citizens and expatriates alike, mak<strong>in</strong>g it the closest<br />

European country to the Gulf region.<br />

In addition, our relations are founded on our common values and pr<strong>in</strong>ciples and<br />

transposed via our shared vision for our wider region through practical ways of<br />

promot<strong>in</strong>g security and regional stability. In this sense both our countries endorse<br />

practical ways of promot<strong>in</strong>g the notion of ‘regional multilateralism’ <strong>in</strong> a way that it<br />

will generate geopolitically advantageous capital for future generations. <strong>Cyprus</strong> and<br />

the <strong>UAE</strong> are strong advocates of the positive quality shift unleashed by synergies<br />

that are develop<strong>in</strong>g out of networks of project-based cooperation, launched by the<br />

historic Abraham Accords and the Negev Platform, <strong>in</strong> which the <strong>UAE</strong> has made a most<br />

<strong>in</strong>strumental contribution. We see eye to eye on the remarkable potential of l<strong>in</strong>k<strong>in</strong>g<br />

up these networks with trilateral platforms of cooperation launched by <strong>Cyprus</strong> and<br />

Greece together with, <strong>in</strong>ter alia Egypt, Israel and Jordan.<br />

Likewise, I was delighted to visit the <strong>UAE</strong> <strong>in</strong> June 2022, upon the k<strong>in</strong>d <strong>in</strong>vitation of<br />

my dear friend and colleague HH Sheikh Abdullah b<strong>in</strong> Zayed b<strong>in</strong> Sultan Al Nahyan.<br />

I was pleased to hold very productive discussions on a multiplicity of key issues <strong>in</strong><br />

which the <strong>UAE</strong>’s contribution is crucial, not only because of its global footpr<strong>in</strong>t on<br />

matters such as climate change, food and energy security as well as the fight aga<strong>in</strong>st<br />

terrorism, but also on topics that are dom<strong>in</strong>ant <strong>in</strong> the <strong>in</strong>ternational agenda and <strong>in</strong><br />

which the <strong>UAE</strong>’s support via its current membership <strong>in</strong> the UN Security Council is<br />

<strong>in</strong>dispensable.<br />

I ought to acknowledge <strong>in</strong> this respect the mutual commitment of both of our<br />

countries to strengthen and diversify our partnership at a bilateral, trilateral and<br />

multilateral level. This is tangibly reflected <strong>in</strong> the frequent visits of high-level officials,<br />

<strong>in</strong>clud<strong>in</strong>g the flagship visit of President Anastasiades to Dubai <strong>in</strong> February 2022,<br />

<strong>in</strong> the framework of <strong>Cyprus</strong>’ national day celebrations at the Dubai EXPO2020. The<br />

President was <strong>in</strong> fact accompanied by a large delegation of n<strong>in</strong>e M<strong>in</strong>isters, as well<br />

as the Government’s agency for the attraction of <strong>in</strong>vestment, who held productive<br />

bilateral meet<strong>in</strong>gs with their counterparts. A number of bilateral agreements were<br />

signed, with the most important be<strong>in</strong>g the jo<strong>in</strong>t declaration on the establishment of<br />

a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership, focus<strong>in</strong>g on political, defence and military<br />

cooperation, energy, trade and <strong>in</strong>vestments, tourism and culture, education, science<br />

and technology, and shipp<strong>in</strong>g and maritime transport. The Partnership which<br />

provides for a yearly Strategic Forum, sets a clear roadmap of practicable deliverables<br />

<strong>in</strong> all the aforementioned areas of cooperation.<br />

It is therefore evident, that <strong>Cyprus</strong> and the <strong>UAE</strong> already share a prolific <strong>in</strong> nature and<br />

mature <strong>in</strong> essence strategic trajectory that cross cuts all levels. I am confident that these<br />

excellent relations will cont<strong>in</strong>ue to prosper and become even more robust <strong>in</strong> the years<br />

to come, to the benefit of our countries and our peoples, as we aim to foster conditions<br />

of tolerance, peace, security, prosperity and stability <strong>in</strong> our common wider region. n


DOING BUSINESS C YPRUS<br />

36<br />

UNITED ARAB EMIRATES EDITION<br />

INTERVIEW<br />

Ambassador of the United Arab Emirates to <strong>Cyprus</strong><br />

Sultan Ahmed<br />

Ghanem Al Suwaidi<br />

<strong>Cyprus</strong> and the United Arab Emirates enjoy<br />

established and strong relations, with both<br />

countries eager to f<strong>in</strong>d opportunities and make<br />

bigger <strong>in</strong>vestments <strong>in</strong> many fields of mutual<br />

<strong>in</strong>terest, especially <strong>in</strong> hydrocarbons and renewable<br />

energy, says Sultan Ahmed Ghanem Al Suwaidi.


DOING BUSINESS C YPRUS<br />

37<br />

UNITED ARAB EMIRATES EDITION<br />

The <strong>UAE</strong> and <strong>Cyprus</strong> have fostered friendly<br />

relations over many decades, how would you<br />

def<strong>in</strong>e the current bilateral relationship?<br />

The United Arab Emirates and the Republic of <strong>Cyprus</strong> signed a Jo<strong>in</strong>t Communiqué<br />

on the Establishment of Diplomatic Relations between the two countries on 6<br />

June 2007, thus officially establish<strong>in</strong>g diplomatic relations at an ambassadorial level.<br />

Consequently, the two countries have been work<strong>in</strong>g towards enhanc<strong>in</strong>g their bilateral<br />

cooperation <strong>in</strong> many fields and areas of mutual <strong>in</strong>terest to benefit both nations.<br />

As for the current bilateral relations, it can be best def<strong>in</strong>ed as a strategic partnership<br />

between two friendly nations cont<strong>in</strong>uously grow<strong>in</strong>g from strength to strength. This<br />

is evident <strong>in</strong> the last visit <strong>in</strong> February 2022 of H.E. Mr. Nicos Anastasiades, President<br />

of the Republic of <strong>Cyprus</strong> to the <strong>UAE</strong>, dur<strong>in</strong>g which His Excellency visited the EXPO<br />

2020, and witnessed the sign<strong>in</strong>g of a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership, along with<br />

three very important Memoranda of Understand<strong>in</strong>g concern<strong>in</strong>g maritime transport,<br />

cyber security, and diplomatic tra<strong>in</strong><strong>in</strong>g. All of which will further advance the bilateral<br />

cooperation <strong>in</strong> fields of mutual and strategic <strong>in</strong>terest.<br />

Furthermore, I would like to emphasise the strong relations between the two peoples,<br />

the Emiratis and the Cypriots, as many Cypriots are liv<strong>in</strong>g and work<strong>in</strong>g <strong>in</strong> the <strong>UAE</strong>, thus<br />

contribut<strong>in</strong>g to the strengthen<strong>in</strong>g of the bilateral trade relations.<br />

Are there significant projects between the <strong>UAE</strong> and<br />

<strong>Cyprus</strong> at the moment, and what k<strong>in</strong>d of projects and<br />

cooperation would you like to see developed <strong>in</strong> the future?<br />

O<br />

ne of the most important and economically vital current projects concerns<br />

the operation of DP World <strong>in</strong> Limassol Port. In 2016, the Emirati mult<strong>in</strong>ational<br />

company, specialis<strong>in</strong>g <strong>in</strong> cargo logistics, port term<strong>in</strong>al operations, maritime services<br />

and economic zones, was awarded a 25-year concession to operate the multi-purpose<br />

term<strong>in</strong>al <strong>in</strong> Limassol.<br />

This marks the cont<strong>in</strong>uation of a fruitful economic and trade relationship, as I believe<br />

that both countries are eager to f<strong>in</strong>d opportunities and make bigger <strong>in</strong>vestments <strong>in</strong><br />

many fields of mutual <strong>in</strong>terest, especially <strong>in</strong> hydrocarbons and renewable energy.<br />

In this context, form<strong>in</strong>g and agree<strong>in</strong>g on a well-established organisational structure<br />

and a smooth platform to cooperate and coord<strong>in</strong>ate <strong>in</strong> the future is one of the ma<strong>in</strong> goals<br />

as an Embassy. Our aim is to encourage and facilitate contact between the two bus<strong>in</strong>ess<br />

communities through the implementation of different activities, the organisation of<br />

relevant workshops on areas of common <strong>in</strong>terest, and to build on the exchange of<br />

mutual visits from both communities.


DOING BUSINESS C YPRUS<br />

38<br />

UNITED ARAB EMIRATES EDITION<br />

The <strong>UAE</strong> is a prom<strong>in</strong>ent bus<strong>in</strong>ess hub and <strong>Cyprus</strong><br />

is a strong <strong>in</strong>ternational bus<strong>in</strong>ess centre and EU<br />

base for cross-border operations. What synergies<br />

and potential could be harnessed between the two<br />

jurisdictions to facilitate more trade and bus<strong>in</strong>ess?<br />

Due to the strategic location of <strong>Cyprus</strong> and the technological advancement of the<br />

<strong>UAE</strong>, both countries offer many <strong>in</strong>centives and advantages for the furtherance of<br />

the national prosperity. At this stage, both sides at different technocratic levels, are<br />

tak<strong>in</strong>g <strong>in</strong>to consideration, discuss<strong>in</strong>g and exchang<strong>in</strong>g views regard<strong>in</strong>g many fields of<br />

cooperation <strong>in</strong> order to further strengthen the economic and trade ties between the<br />

two countries.<br />

Now perhaps, even more, under the wise leadership of His Highness Sheikh Mohamed<br />

b<strong>in</strong> Zayed Al Nahyan, President of the United Arab Emirates, the <strong>UAE</strong> will cont<strong>in</strong>ue<br />

to promote a comprehensive vision and strategy to build a susta<strong>in</strong>able economy that<br />

ensures a thriv<strong>in</strong>g future for generations to come. This vision is based on the development<br />

and implementation of an ambitious economic vision for the next 50 years and the<br />

Centennial 2071, which keeps pace with the multifaceted changes of the global economy.<br />

What k<strong>in</strong>d of opportunities does <strong>Cyprus</strong> offer<br />

specifically to Emirati bus<strong>in</strong>ess, and vice versa?<br />

th<strong>in</strong>k that there is always room for further cooperation, and even though as we said<br />

I before, there are efforts from both sides to enhance cooperation at every level, the<br />

two countries can further work together to materialise those efforts and realise their<br />

implementation.<br />

We all know that the transformation of the global economic landscape due to<br />

geopolitical changes, rapid technological development, market dynamics and the<br />

overall effects of Covid-19 prompted the need to review plans, government systems<br />

and work mechanisms to ensure future success.<br />

In this context, it is important to po<strong>in</strong>t<br />

out that the <strong>UAE</strong> has become a global<br />

centre for clean energy <strong>in</strong> all its forms,<br />

<strong>Cyprus</strong> and the technological<br />

especially hydrogen, and it is currently<br />

advancement of the <strong>UAE</strong>,<br />

one of the lead<strong>in</strong>g countries <strong>in</strong> develop<strong>in</strong>g<br />

this field. The <strong>UAE</strong>’s futuristic vision<br />

both countries offer many<br />

targets three pillars: renewable and clean<br />

<strong>in</strong>centives and advantages<br />

energy; oil, petrochemical and m<strong>in</strong><strong>in</strong>g<br />

<strong>in</strong>dustries; and land and sea transport<br />

for the furtherance of the<br />

and storage. Now <strong>in</strong> order to achieve<br />

these goals, regulatory <strong>in</strong>frastructures<br />

IDue to the strategic location of<br />

national prosperity.


DOING BUSINESS C YPRUS<br />

39<br />

UNITED ARAB EMIRATES EDITION<br />

are established to promote the use of<br />

advanced technology and <strong>in</strong>novation to<br />

IThe<br />

drive growth.<br />

<strong>UAE</strong> has become a global<br />

Moreover, it is not correct to talk about centre for clean energy <strong>in</strong><br />

this issue without mention<strong>in</strong>g Masdar;<br />

a Mubadala company that is a global<br />

all its forms, especially<br />

leader <strong>in</strong> deploy<strong>in</strong>g renewable energy hydrogen, and it is currently<br />

and susta<strong>in</strong>able low-carbon urban<br />

development. This Abu Dhabi Future<br />

one of the lead<strong>in</strong>g countries<br />

Energy Company develops commercially <strong>in</strong> develop<strong>in</strong>g this field.<br />

viable renewable energy projects <strong>in</strong><br />

the Middle East & North Africa (MENA)<br />

and <strong>in</strong>ternational markets. Masdar<br />

aims to support the diversification of<br />

the economy and the energy sources<br />

for the benefit of future generations,<br />

by advanc<strong>in</strong>g <strong>in</strong>novation <strong>in</strong> clean<br />

technologies and build<strong>in</strong>g the world’s<br />

most susta<strong>in</strong>able cities.<br />

Therefore, to answer your question,<br />

this is a major field that could be attractive<br />

<strong>in</strong> <strong>Cyprus</strong>. Accord<strong>in</strong>g to the Smart<br />

City Index 2021, both Abu Dhabi and<br />

Dubai have been ranked as the smartest<br />

cities <strong>in</strong> the Middle East and North<br />

Africa region. This <strong>in</strong>dex normally surveys<br />

residents <strong>in</strong> ranked cities to assess smart <strong>in</strong>frastructure and services cover<strong>in</strong>g<br />

health and safety, mobility, activities, opportunities, and governance. <strong>Cyprus</strong> can<br />

follow the example of Masdar City, which was <strong>in</strong>itiated by Abu Dhabi <strong>in</strong> 2006. Masdar<br />

city is very important as it represents the first attempt <strong>in</strong> the Middle East to<br />

build a susta<strong>in</strong>able city, with the aim to reduce the use of energy. It uses a comb<strong>in</strong>ation<br />

of technology, architectural designs and solar power to run, thus provid<strong>in</strong>g<br />

high quality of life <strong>in</strong> an efficient ecosystem and environmentally smart way.<br />

What sectors or what type of projects <strong>in</strong> <strong>Cyprus</strong><br />

could be attractive for <strong>in</strong>vestment from the <strong>UAE</strong>?<br />

As we discussed before, energy, tourism, education, shipp<strong>in</strong>g and maritime<br />

transport are considered ma<strong>in</strong> fields, especially now that the <strong>UAE</strong> has shown its<br />

ambition to lead the economy of tomorrow, a goal that is deeply rooted <strong>in</strong> the spirit<br />

of the nation. This vision has been crucial to the <strong>UAE</strong>’s rapid rise on both regional and<br />

<strong>in</strong>ternational levels.<br />

The <strong>UAE</strong> ranked among the top 10 <strong>in</strong> IMD’s World Competitiveness Rank<strong>in</strong>g 2021<br />

and is widely respected as a hub for bus<strong>in</strong>ess and <strong>in</strong>vestment activities. Agility and<br />

resilience have underp<strong>in</strong>ned the success of the <strong>UAE</strong> so far, as the nation cont<strong>in</strong>ues its<br />

progression to become an <strong>in</strong>ternational bus<strong>in</strong>ess hub and global leader.


DOING BUSINESS C YPRUS<br />

40<br />

UNITED ARAB EMIRATES EDITION<br />

How do you see the relations between <strong>Cyprus</strong><br />

and the <strong>UAE</strong> develop<strong>in</strong>g <strong>in</strong> the future?<br />

The history of friendly bilateral relations<br />

between the <strong>UAE</strong> and <strong>Cyprus</strong><br />

goes back decades. This relationship has<br />

been nurtured and has flourished deeply<br />

s<strong>in</strong>ce then, as the two countries share<br />

similar pr<strong>in</strong>ciples, values and most importantly<br />

these days, have the mutual <strong>in</strong>terest<br />

<strong>in</strong> ensur<strong>in</strong>g peace and stability. We<br />

are also keen on be<strong>in</strong>g a reliable partner<br />

for the EU <strong>in</strong> several fields, notably with<strong>in</strong><br />

trade, but also <strong>in</strong> fac<strong>in</strong>g the challenges of<br />

today <strong>in</strong> areas such as counterterrorism,<br />

energy, environment, climate change,<br />

food security, non-proliferation and economic<br />

diversification.<br />

This bilateral cooperation has taken the<br />

healthy path to growth and thus the future<br />

relationship will draw an <strong>in</strong>tertw<strong>in</strong>ed<br />

map of connectedness <strong>in</strong> several areas<br />

of cooperation, perhaps especially <strong>in</strong><br />

renewables and a post-oil susta<strong>in</strong>able<br />

future. Perhaps there may also be<br />

cooperation <strong>in</strong> areas such as nationally<br />

determ<strong>in</strong>ed contributions, hydrogen and<br />

climate f<strong>in</strong>anc<strong>in</strong>g, which are foreseen to<br />

be further consolidated, as <strong>UAE</strong> will host<br />

COP28 <strong>in</strong> 2023. n<br />

IThis bilateral cooperation has<br />

taken the healthy path to growth<br />

and thus the future relationship<br />

will draw an <strong>in</strong>tertw<strong>in</strong>ed map<br />

of connectedness <strong>in</strong> several<br />

areas of cooperation, perhaps<br />

especially <strong>in</strong> renewables and a<br />

post-oil susta<strong>in</strong>able future.


DOING BUSINESS C YPRUS<br />

42<br />

UNITED ARAB EMIRATES EDITION<br />

INTERVIEW<br />

Ambassador of the Republic of <strong>Cyprus</strong><br />

to the United Arab Emirates<br />

Yannis Michaelides<br />

<strong>Cyprus</strong> has long established itself as a thriv<strong>in</strong>g<br />

bus<strong>in</strong>ess hub, with a vast array of <strong>in</strong>vestment<br />

opportunities <strong>in</strong> key growth sectors of the economy.<br />

With its long-stand<strong>in</strong>g friendly relations with the<br />

<strong>UAE</strong> and other key partners <strong>in</strong> the region, there is<br />

vast potential for further <strong>in</strong>vestment and build<strong>in</strong>g<br />

strong synergies, says Yannis Michaelides.


DOING BUSINESS C YPRUS<br />

43<br />

UNITED ARAB EMIRATES EDITION<br />

How would you describe the current bilateral<br />

relations between <strong>Cyprus</strong> and the <strong>UAE</strong>?<br />

Friendly relations between <strong>Cyprus</strong> and the <strong>UAE</strong> date back several decades as<br />

highlighted by the official visit to the <strong>UAE</strong> on May 24, 1975, of the first President of<br />

the Republic of <strong>Cyprus</strong>, the late Archbishop Makarios. Situated at the crossroads of<br />

three cont<strong>in</strong>ents and occupy<strong>in</strong>g a strategic position at the gateways of Europe, Asia and<br />

Africa, <strong>Cyprus</strong> has sought to deepen its relations with the GCC countries. <strong>Cyprus</strong> is now<br />

witness<strong>in</strong>g a real impetus <strong>in</strong> the development of its political and economic cooperation<br />

with these countries and with the <strong>UAE</strong> <strong>in</strong> particular.<br />

The establishment of a Jo<strong>in</strong>t Committee for Cooperation and the sign<strong>in</strong>g of an<br />

Agreement on Economic and Technical Cooperation with the <strong>UAE</strong> are two important<br />

tools which contribute to enhanc<strong>in</strong>g our bilateral relations. The Jo<strong>in</strong>t Declaration of<br />

February 2022 by the <strong>Cyprus</strong> and <strong>UAE</strong> Governments for a Comprehensive Strategic<br />

Partnership sets the framework for further expand<strong>in</strong>g <strong>Cyprus</strong>’ bilateral relations with<br />

the <strong>UAE</strong> <strong>in</strong> the political as well as <strong>in</strong> the economic sector.<br />

<strong>Cyprus</strong> now enjoys a structured cooperation with the <strong>UAE</strong>, witness<strong>in</strong>g a significant<br />

expansion <strong>in</strong> bilateral ties, with diverse opportunities for collaboration emerg<strong>in</strong>g <strong>in</strong><br />

various key fields, <strong>in</strong>clud<strong>in</strong>g trade, <strong>in</strong>vestment, energy, education, culture, tourism,<br />

security and defence.<br />

The official visit of the President of the Republic of <strong>Cyprus</strong> to the <strong>UAE</strong> for the National<br />

Day of <strong>Cyprus</strong> at EXPO2020 <strong>in</strong> February 2022 was an opportunity for the two sides to<br />

reaffirm the robust and privileged relations between the two countries. The President’s<br />

meet<strong>in</strong>g with the Prime M<strong>in</strong>ister of the <strong>UAE</strong> and Ruler of Dubai, His Highness Sheikh<br />

Mohammed b<strong>in</strong> Rashid Al Maktoum, was an occasion to explore new avenues of<br />

cooperation especially <strong>in</strong> the fields of bus<strong>in</strong>ess and <strong>in</strong>vestment, as well as opportunities<br />

that can benefit the private sector <strong>in</strong> both countries.<br />

<strong>Cyprus</strong> has focused on develop<strong>in</strong>g stronger<br />

economic l<strong>in</strong>ks and trade relations with the Emirates<br />

over the years, what k<strong>in</strong>d of jo<strong>in</strong>t projects have<br />

the two countries participated <strong>in</strong> and what new<br />

prospects are there to <strong>in</strong>crease cooperation?<br />

O<br />

ur current structured cooperation with the <strong>UAE</strong> allows a significant expansion <strong>in</strong><br />

bilateral economic ties between our two countries with an <strong>in</strong>crease of over 25% of<br />

non-oil trade from the preced<strong>in</strong>g year.<br />

In 2016, DP World, a lead<strong>in</strong>g Emirati worldwide provider of smart logistics solutions,<br />

was awarded a concession to operate the multi-purpose port term<strong>in</strong>al <strong>in</strong> Limassol.<br />

Cypriot manufactured products are already of considerable <strong>in</strong>terest to Emirati<br />

companies <strong>in</strong> the fields of agriculture, food, pharmaceuticals and build<strong>in</strong>g materials.


DOING BUSINESS C YPRUS<br />

44<br />

UNITED ARAB EMIRATES EDITION<br />

We are thus look<strong>in</strong>g forward to the diverse opportunities for collaboration that will<br />

emerge across various fields, hav<strong>in</strong>g established solid relations with key partners <strong>in</strong> the<br />

region, which we are determ<strong>in</strong>ed to further pursue actively. There is an opportunity for<br />

growth and <strong>in</strong>vestment and for connect<strong>in</strong>g important markets and build<strong>in</strong>g synergies.<br />

Indeed, the many fields of cooperation <strong>in</strong>clude renewable energy, tourism, <strong>in</strong>vestments,<br />

<strong>in</strong>frastructure, health, education, merchant shipp<strong>in</strong>g and the maritime <strong>in</strong>dustry,<br />

commerce, gas and oil exploration and others, as we are committed to strengthen<strong>in</strong>g<br />

the l<strong>in</strong>ks between <strong>Cyprus</strong> and the <strong>UAE</strong>.<br />

<strong>Cyprus</strong> is a strong regional hub and EU base<br />

for <strong>in</strong>ternational bus<strong>in</strong>ess and offers many<br />

advantages for companies engaged <strong>in</strong> crossborder<br />

activities, what advantages does <strong>Cyprus</strong><br />

offer specifically to <strong>UAE</strong> bus<strong>in</strong>ess?<br />

As an EU Member State situated at the crossroads of three cont<strong>in</strong>ents, <strong>Cyprus</strong> is an<br />

ideal platform for regional cooperation and a reliable partner that has built, over<br />

the years, a secure <strong>in</strong>vestment environment. We have established a comprehensive<br />

economic diplomacy with key priorities, clear objectives and relevant action plans,<br />

promot<strong>in</strong>g <strong>Cyprus</strong> as a preferred bus<strong>in</strong>ess and <strong>in</strong>vestment dest<strong>in</strong>ation. The strong<br />

presence of foreign <strong>in</strong>vestment <strong>in</strong> <strong>Cyprus</strong>, which we welcome and support, is a<br />

confidence vote to the island and its economy.<br />

The government has sought to ma<strong>in</strong>ta<strong>in</strong> conditions of stability and confidence, to<br />

consolidate and modernise <strong>Cyprus</strong>’ bank<strong>in</strong>g system and to preserve tax certa<strong>in</strong>ty and a<br />

bus<strong>in</strong>ess-friendly environment for the private sector.<br />

New <strong>in</strong>frastructure and hous<strong>in</strong>g developments are underway across the country<br />

with significant foreign <strong>in</strong>vestor back<strong>in</strong>g. International companies are sett<strong>in</strong>g up<br />

headquarters <strong>in</strong> <strong>Cyprus</strong>, which is becom<strong>in</strong>g an <strong>in</strong>creas<strong>in</strong>gly attractive gateway to growth<br />

markets. <strong>Cyprus</strong>’ growth performance is now attract<strong>in</strong>g foreign direct <strong>in</strong>vestment from<br />

different parts of the world and especially<br />

from the Middle East and Asia.<br />

With a constantly evolv<strong>in</strong>g system of cooperation with the <strong>UAE</strong>,<br />

advanced and modern <strong>in</strong>frastructure,<br />

<strong>Cyprus</strong> offers sophisticated road, air and witness<strong>in</strong>g a significant<br />

sea transport solutions and services, expansion <strong>in</strong> bilateral ties,<br />

which are widely recognised as an<br />

important competitive advantage <strong>in</strong> with diverse opportunities<br />

attract<strong>in</strong>g foreign direct <strong>in</strong>vestment.<br />

for collaboration emerg<strong>in</strong>g <strong>in</strong><br />

<strong>Cyprus</strong>’ two multi-purpose deep sea<br />

ports, one of which is operated by DP various key fields, <strong>in</strong>clud<strong>in</strong>g<br />

World, handle passenger and freight trade, <strong>in</strong>vestment, energy,<br />

cargo while offer<strong>in</strong>g logistics solutions<br />

through advanced facilities for costeffective<br />

transport and process<strong>in</strong>g.<br />

education, culture, tourism,<br />

In<br />

I<strong>Cyprus</strong> now enjoys a structured<br />

security and defence.


DOING BUSINESS C YPRUS<br />

45<br />

UNITED ARAB EMIRATES EDITION<br />

IAs an EU Member State situated<br />

at the crossroads of three<br />

cont<strong>in</strong>ents, <strong>Cyprus</strong> it is an ideal<br />

platform for regional cooperation<br />

and a reliable partner that has<br />

built, over the years, a secure<br />

<strong>in</strong>vestment environment.<br />

addition, the coastal city of Limassol is a<br />

renowned cruise l<strong>in</strong>er hub and a popular<br />

‘stop-over’ for <strong>in</strong>ternational cruise ships.<br />

Two modern <strong>in</strong>ternational airports <strong>in</strong><br />

Larnaca and Paphos offer their services<br />

to approximately 10 million visitors per<br />

year, connect<strong>in</strong>g the island to the most<br />

popular transit hubs throughout the<br />

world. Considerable <strong>in</strong>vestment has also<br />

been made to transform the island <strong>in</strong>to<br />

a major telecommunications hub <strong>in</strong> the<br />

region, provid<strong>in</strong>g fast connections via<br />

submar<strong>in</strong>e fibre optic cable and satellite to the rest of the world.<br />

<strong>Cyprus</strong> has long established itself as a thriv<strong>in</strong>g bus<strong>in</strong>ess hub, with a vast array of<br />

<strong>in</strong>vestment opportunities <strong>in</strong> key growth sectors of the economy. The island’s ideal<br />

strategic location, advanced <strong>in</strong>frastructure and high quality of life are among the many<br />

reasons to <strong>in</strong>vest <strong>in</strong> <strong>Cyprus</strong>. As such, the island is an ideal <strong>in</strong>vestment gateway to the<br />

European Union, as well as a portal for <strong>in</strong>vestment outside the EU, particularly <strong>in</strong>to the<br />

Middle East, India and Ch<strong>in</strong>a. As a member of the Eurozone, <strong>Cyprus</strong> ensures safety and<br />

stability for <strong>in</strong>vestors, while also offer<strong>in</strong>g them market access to millions of EU citizens.<br />

<strong>Cyprus</strong>’ legal system, based on English Common Law pr<strong>in</strong>ciples, is widely recognised<br />

as an effective system that ensures transparency and reliability <strong>in</strong> bus<strong>in</strong>ess practices,<br />

offer<strong>in</strong>g foreign bus<strong>in</strong>esses a familiar and reliable framework with<strong>in</strong> which to operate.<br />

The recent launch of the <strong>Bus<strong>in</strong>ess</strong> Facilitation Unit, which provides for fast-track<strong>in</strong>g<br />

bus<strong>in</strong>ess setup, will undoubtedly establish <strong>Cyprus</strong> as a bus<strong>in</strong>ess-friendly location.<br />

Our country’s competitive advantages are significantly enriched by a robust and<br />

transparent legal and regulatory framework and an attractive tax regime, which offers


DOING BUSINESS C YPRUS<br />

46<br />

UNITED ARAB EMIRATES EDITION<br />

a wide range of <strong>in</strong>centives and advantages both for legal and natural persons. Human<br />

talent constitutes <strong>Cyprus</strong>’ most compell<strong>in</strong>g advantage, complemented by a broad range<br />

of high-quality professional services. As a dynamic bus<strong>in</strong>ess centre, <strong>Cyprus</strong> offers<br />

an abundance of highly educated skilled <strong>in</strong>dividuals, ready to serve the needs of any<br />

bus<strong>in</strong>ess.<br />

What sectors or niche segments <strong>in</strong> <strong>Cyprus</strong> do<br />

you th<strong>in</strong>k have untapped potential <strong>in</strong> terms of<br />

attract<strong>in</strong>g more <strong>in</strong>vestment from the <strong>UAE</strong>?<br />

<strong>Cyprus</strong> is now home to various mult<strong>in</strong>ationals. It is a place of development and<br />

progress, highlight<strong>in</strong>g <strong>in</strong>vestment opportunities <strong>in</strong> a variety of sectors such as<br />

tourism, <strong>in</strong>frastructure, real estate, fund management, <strong>in</strong>novation and start-ups,<br />

shipp<strong>in</strong>g, bank<strong>in</strong>g, retail, pharmaceuticals, film<strong>in</strong>g, healthcare and education, just<br />

to name a few. The island has also established<br />

itself as a grow<strong>in</strong>g tech hub and<br />

a thriv<strong>in</strong>g maritime cluster. There are<br />

numerous opportunities <strong>in</strong> the energy <strong>in</strong> the energy sector, especially<br />

sector, especially <strong>in</strong> the field of hybrid<br />

renewable energy sources, energy storage<br />

facilities, blue and green hydrogen energy sources, energy<br />

<strong>in</strong> the field of hybrid renewable<br />

production and <strong>in</strong>vestment <strong>in</strong> offshore<br />

hydrocarbon exploration activities.<br />

storage facilities, blue and<br />

Build<strong>in</strong>g strong bilateral, regional green hydrogen production<br />

and <strong>in</strong>ternational cooperation with<br />

reliable partners on energy markets and and <strong>in</strong>vestment <strong>in</strong> offshore<br />

renewables places <strong>Cyprus</strong> at a unique<br />

IThere are numerous opportunities<br />

hydrocarbon exploration activities


DOING BUSINESS C YPRUS<br />

47<br />

UNITED ARAB EMIRATES EDITION<br />

position <strong>in</strong> connect<strong>in</strong>g Asia, the Middle East, the Gulf region, Africa and Europe. <strong>Cyprus</strong><br />

could thus be a gateway for renewables, energy pipel<strong>in</strong>e networks and term<strong>in</strong>als.<br />

<strong>Cyprus</strong> is also a world-class educational and research centre of excellence with high<br />

quality academic <strong>in</strong>stitutions. It offers wide access to markets, high quality professional<br />

services and a skilled workforce backed by operational efficiency and governmental<br />

support.<br />

How do you see the relationship between the<br />

<strong>UAE</strong> and <strong>Cyprus</strong> develop<strong>in</strong>g <strong>in</strong> the future?<br />

The <strong>UAE</strong> is second home to many Cypriots and there are currently more than seventy<br />

Cypriot companies operat<strong>in</strong>g <strong>in</strong> the country. The participation of <strong>Cyprus</strong> <strong>in</strong> major<br />

commercial exhibitions and bus<strong>in</strong>ess fora <strong>in</strong> the <strong>UAE</strong> undoubtedly contributes to the<br />

strengthen<strong>in</strong>g of our bilateral trade relations.<br />

The island, which is the closest European country to the <strong>UAE</strong>, has become a popular<br />

dest<strong>in</strong>ation not only for <strong>UAE</strong> citizens but also for the expatriates liv<strong>in</strong>g <strong>in</strong> the Emirates.<br />

Dur<strong>in</strong>g the last two years, and despite the pandemic, the number of visitors from the<br />

<strong>UAE</strong> has been steadily grow<strong>in</strong>g.<br />

We are confident that the relationship<br />

between <strong>Cyprus</strong> and the <strong>UAE</strong> will cont<strong>in</strong>ue<br />

to grow and expand <strong>in</strong> the future<br />

<strong>in</strong> countless fields of collaboration. We<br />

see tremendous opportunities for further<br />

bilateral cooperation, and we look<br />

forward to work<strong>in</strong>g together with the<br />

<strong>UAE</strong> on matters rang<strong>in</strong>g from regional<br />

stability and prosperity to combat<strong>in</strong>g<br />

climate change. n<br />

IBuild<strong>in</strong>g strong bilateral, regional<br />

and <strong>in</strong>ternational cooperation<br />

with reliable partners on energy<br />

markets and renewables, places<br />

<strong>Cyprus</strong> at a unique position <strong>in</strong><br />

connect<strong>in</strong>g Asia, the Middle East,<br />

the Gulf region, Africa and Europe


DOING BUSINESS C YPRUS<br />

48<br />

UNITED ARAB EMIRATES EDITION<br />

SPOTLIGHT<br />

<strong>Cyprus</strong><br />

Real Estate<br />

The <strong>Cyprus</strong> real estate <strong>in</strong>dustry has proven its resilience<br />

with 2022 so far exhibit<strong>in</strong>g dynamic momentum <strong>in</strong> the<br />

sector underl<strong>in</strong><strong>in</strong>g strong confidence of both Cypriot<br />

and foreign property buyers. First quarter sales reached<br />

€1.3 billion, with coastal bus<strong>in</strong>ess hub Limassol and<br />

capital city Nicosia tak<strong>in</strong>g the lion’s share of contracts.


DOING BUSINESS C YPRUS<br />

49<br />

UNITED ARAB EMIRATES EDITION<br />

C<br />

yprus has long been a firm favourite for property buyers worldwide thanks to its<br />

high quality of life, safe environment and Mediterranean climate. In addition, the<br />

country’s EU membership, its thriv<strong>in</strong>g <strong>in</strong>ternational bus<strong>in</strong>ess centre and strategic<br />

position at the crossroads of three cont<strong>in</strong>ents rema<strong>in</strong> key pull-factors for residential<br />

buyers, relocat<strong>in</strong>g companies and <strong>in</strong>vestors alike.<br />

Property sales have bounced back post-pandemic and have rema<strong>in</strong>ed strong <strong>in</strong> the<br />

last year. In the second quarter of 2022 real estate sales <strong>in</strong> <strong>Cyprus</strong> rose year on year by a<br />

robust 29.3%. This was slower than the 51.6% recorded <strong>in</strong> the first quarter and analysts<br />

say this is likely related to the end of lend<strong>in</strong>g subsidies for first-time buyers. In terms of<br />

absolute volume, the largest <strong>in</strong>crease <strong>in</strong> sales was <strong>in</strong> Limassol, where sales rose by 293<br />

to 1,130, mark<strong>in</strong>g a year-on-year <strong>in</strong>crease of 35%. However, the fastest pace of growth<br />

was <strong>in</strong> Paphos, where sales rose by 229 or 54.1% to 652.<br />

Sales to Cypriots cont<strong>in</strong>ue to dom<strong>in</strong>ate, account<strong>in</strong>g for 58.5% of the total <strong>in</strong> the<br />

second quarter of 2022 and 58% on average <strong>in</strong> the first half of 2022. This was lower<br />

than <strong>in</strong> 2020-21, when sales to Cypriots averaged 65%. However, the years 2021-22<br />

were somewhat unusual given pandemic-related travel restrictions. In 2018-19 the<br />

proportion of sales to Cypriots was 55%, therefore closer to the average <strong>in</strong> the first half<br />

of 2022. Sales to Cypriots are driven both by the abovementioned subsidies but also<br />

growth <strong>in</strong> population size. Accord<strong>in</strong>g to the latest Labour Force Survey the number of<br />

private households rose year on year by 1.4% <strong>in</strong> the first quarter of 2022 to 347,650.<br />

REAL ESTATE SALES BY REGION<br />

Contracts of sale unless otherwise <strong>in</strong>dicated<br />

2021 Q2 2021 Q3 2021 Q4 2022 Q1 2022 Q2<br />

Nicosia 690 632 856 673 705<br />

% change year on year 118.4 4.8 37.8 4.2 2.2<br />

Limassol 837 825 1,118 1,019 1,130<br />

% change year on year 116.8 17.9 32.2 82.3 35.0<br />

Larnaca 396 422 541 512 610<br />

% change year on year 106.3 26.0 35.9 62.5 54.0<br />

Famagusta 170 181 211 152 157<br />

% change year on year 80.9 14.6 8.8 16.9 -7.6<br />

Paphos 423 442 618 653 652<br />

% change year on year 44.4 17.6 32.9 94.9 54.1<br />

All <strong>Cyprus</strong> 2,516 2,502 3,344 3,009 3,254<br />

% change year on year 96.4 15.2 32.5 51.6 29.3<br />

Source: Department of Lands and Surveys. © Sapienta Economics Ltd.


DOING BUSINESS C YPRUS<br />

50<br />

UNITED ARAB EMIRATES EDITION<br />

CYPRIOT AND NON-CYPRIOT PROPERTY SALES<br />

Number of contracts 2021 Q2 2021 Q3 2021 Q4 2022 Q1 2022 Q2<br />

Cypriot contracts 1,663 1,602 1,992 1,732 1,903<br />

EU contracts 421 459 696 628 625<br />

Non-EU contracts 432 441 656 649 726<br />

Total contracts 2,516 2,502 3,344 3,009 3,254<br />

% change over same period of previous year<br />

Cypriot contracts 117.7 10.9 20.1 23.8 14.4<br />

EU contracts 182.6 35.8 89.6 141.5 48.5<br />

Non-EU contracts 17.4 13.1 31.5 99.1 68.1<br />

Total contracts 96.4 15.2 32.5 51.6 29.3<br />

Source: Department of Lands and Surveys. © Sapienta Economics Ltd.<br />

PROPERTY PRICE INDICATORS SHOW INCREASE IN PRICES<br />

G<br />

iven the strength of sales, it is not surpris<strong>in</strong>g that the various <strong>in</strong>dices for<br />

residential property prices po<strong>in</strong>t to ris<strong>in</strong>g property prices, even though the<br />

degree of <strong>in</strong>crease differs depend<strong>in</strong>g on the <strong>in</strong>dex. The Central Bank of <strong>Cyprus</strong> <strong>in</strong>dex,<br />

which is based on a large sample of valuations, reports a year-on-year <strong>in</strong>crease <strong>in</strong><br />

prices of 3.2% <strong>in</strong> the first quarter of 2022, compared with 2.6% <strong>in</strong> the fourth quarter<br />

of 2021. This is the fastest pace of growth s<strong>in</strong>ce 2008 accord<strong>in</strong>g to the Central Bank<br />

<strong>in</strong>dex.<br />

The <strong>in</strong>dex prepared by the Statistical Service, Cystat, which is based on a smaller<br />

sample of actual sales, reports an <strong>in</strong>crease <strong>in</strong> prices of 1.1% <strong>in</strong> the first quarter of 2022,<br />

compared with a fairly sharp decl<strong>in</strong>e of 5.1% <strong>in</strong> the previous quarter. Accord<strong>in</strong>g to the<br />

Central Bank <strong>in</strong>dex, apartment prices are clearly ris<strong>in</strong>g faster than those of houses,<br />

ris<strong>in</strong>g by 6.8% compared with an <strong>in</strong>crease of 1.5% for houses <strong>in</strong> the first quarter. This<br />

probably also underl<strong>in</strong>es the importance of the local residential market <strong>in</strong> property<br />

purchases, especially after the withdrawal of the <strong>Cyprus</strong> Investment Programme <strong>in</strong><br />

2020.<br />

However, the Central Bank <strong>in</strong>dex shows a fairly large discrepancy by district. While<br />

apartment prices <strong>in</strong> Paphos rose by 4.0%, thanks to the abovementioned strength<br />

of sales, apartment prices <strong>in</strong> Nicosia actually decl<strong>in</strong>ed by 0.2%. Nicosia was the only<br />

district that saw a decl<strong>in</strong>e <strong>in</strong> apartment prices accord<strong>in</strong>g to this <strong>in</strong>dex.


DOING BUSINESS C YPRUS<br />

51<br />

UNITED ARAB EMIRATES EDITION<br />

All residential property<br />

PROPERTY PRICE INDICATORS<br />

% change over the same period of the previous year<br />

2021 Q1 2021 Q2 2021 Q3 2021 Q4 2022 Q1<br />

Cystat<br />

(hedonic, based on actual sales) -5.8 -4.8 2.5 -5.2 1.1<br />

Central Bank of <strong>Cyprus</strong><br />

(hedonic, based on valuations) 0.9 0.3 1.2 2.6 3.2<br />

Houses<br />

Central Bank of <strong>Cyprus</strong><br />

(hedonic, based on valuations) 0.2 -1.0 -0.3 1.0 1.5<br />

WiRE FS residential houses<br />

(proprietary methodology) 1.5 1.7 0.1 -0.5 n/a<br />

Apartments<br />

Central Bank of <strong>Cyprus</strong><br />

(hedonic, based on valuations) 2.5 3.3 4.5 6.3 6.8<br />

WiRE FS residential apartments<br />

(proprietary methodology) 0.5 0.3 0.7 2.2 n/a<br />

Other<br />

WiRE FS holiday houses<br />

(proprietary methodology) -3.2 -3.8 -4.3 -3.7 n/a<br />

Land Registry: average unit<br />

value of parcel transfers (a) -20.5 -3.9 -21.6 17.9 31.2<br />

(a) Parcels may vary <strong>in</strong> size; Sapienta Economics calculations.<br />

Sources: Cystat; Central Bank of <strong>Cyprus</strong>; WireFS; Department of Lands and Surveys. © Sapienta Economics Ltd.


DOING BUSINESS C YPRUS<br />

52<br />

UNITED ARAB EMIRATES EDITION<br />

PROPERTY-PRICE INDICES<br />

CYPRUS PROPERTY-PRICE INDICES<br />

There are three regular property-price<br />

<strong>in</strong>dices produced <strong>in</strong> <strong>Cyprus</strong> and one which<br />

Sapienta calculates from parcel transfers.<br />

u The Cystat <strong>in</strong>dex is hedonic (adjusted for changes <strong>in</strong><br />

quality) and is based on actual sales. The Cystat <strong>in</strong>dex does<br />

not give a breakdown by region or by property type.<br />

u The Central Bank of <strong>Cyprus</strong> <strong>in</strong>dex is also hedonic but is based on bank<br />

valuations, as opposed to current sales, although recent sales are also<br />

considered <strong>in</strong> valuations. The Central Bank of <strong>Cyprus</strong> <strong>in</strong>dex gives a<br />

breakdown by region and by property type (apartments and houses).<br />

u The WiRE FS <strong>in</strong>dex, which is a fairly new <strong>in</strong>dex largely based on<br />

actual sales prices but also adjusted to consider “th<strong>in</strong> trad<strong>in</strong>g<br />

and an <strong>in</strong>herent lag <strong>in</strong> price record<strong>in</strong>g” <strong>in</strong> <strong>Cyprus</strong>. It gives a<br />

breakdown by region and property type, <strong>in</strong>clud<strong>in</strong>g commercial<br />

property (retail, warehouses and offices). It also dist<strong>in</strong>guishes<br />

between residential and holiday houses/apartments.<br />

u Sapienta Economics also uses data from the Department of Lands<br />

and Surveys (Land Registry) to calculate the average price per unit<br />

of parcel transfers. This is not a market price, as it will <strong>in</strong>clude, for<br />

example, debt-for-property swaps by banks, and parcels may also<br />

vary <strong>in</strong> size. However, it can be an <strong>in</strong>dicator of forced acquisitions.<br />

The three public <strong>in</strong>dices give different results because of their different<br />

focus. Out of the three the Central Bank probably lags the most, as<br />

property valuations tend to be made on the basis of sales <strong>in</strong> the previous<br />

period. However, it has the advantage of be<strong>in</strong>g based on a larger data set<br />

than the Cystat <strong>in</strong>dex, especially <strong>in</strong> periods when sales are stagnant.


DOING BUSINESS C YPRUS<br />

53<br />

UNITED ARAB EMIRATES EDITION


DOING BUSINESS C YPRUS<br />

54<br />

UNITED ARAB EMIRATES EDITION


DOING BUSINESS C YPRUS<br />

55<br />

UNITED ARAB EMIRATES EDITION<br />

PROPERTY<br />

SHOWCASE<br />

Lead<strong>in</strong>g<br />

Developments<br />

<strong>in</strong> <strong>Cyprus</strong><br />

LARNACA<br />

Blue Sky Villas<br />

Perivolia,<br />

Larnaca<br />

Type: Luxury Villas<br />

Price: Upon Request<br />

Developer: Quality Group<br />

Contact: (+357) 24 821 855<br />

<strong>in</strong>fo@qualitydevelopments.com<br />

qualitygroupcyprus.com<br />

Watch: Property Video<br />

Download: Brochure


DOING BUSINESS C YPRUS<br />

56<br />

UNITED ARAB EMIRATES EDITION<br />

PROPERTY SHOWCASE: Lead<strong>in</strong>g Developments <strong>in</strong> <strong>Cyprus</strong><br />

LARNACA<br />

Habitat Residences<br />

Mall Area,<br />

Larnaca<br />

Type: 1,2,3 bedroom apartments<br />

Price: Upon Request<br />

Developer: Quality Group<br />

Contact: (+357) 24 821 855<br />

<strong>in</strong>fo@qualitydevelopments.com<br />

qualitygroupcyprus.com<br />

Watch: Property Video<br />

Download: Brochure<br />

LIMASSOL<br />

Trilogy Limassol Seafront<br />

Limassol<br />

Type: 1 to 5-bedroom<br />

apartments and penthouses<br />

Price: €510,000 - €10,500,000<br />

Developer: Cybarco<br />

Development Ltd<br />

Contact: (+357) 25 362 800<br />

<strong>in</strong>fo@trilogylimassol.com<br />

Trilogylimassol.com<br />

Watch: Property Video<br />

Download: Brochure<br />

PAPHOS<br />

Akamas Bay Villas<br />

Latchi,<br />

Paphos<br />

Type: 3 and 4-bedroom<br />

beachfront villas<br />

Price: €1,390,000 - €3,000,000<br />

Developer: Cybarco<br />

Development Ltd<br />

Contact: (+357) 25 820 511<br />

<strong>in</strong>fo@cybarco.com<br />

Akamasbay.com<br />

Watch: Property Video<br />

Download: Brochure


DOING BUSINESS C YPRUS<br />

57<br />

UNITED ARAB EMIRATES EDITION<br />

PROPERTY SHOWCASE: Lead<strong>in</strong>g Developments <strong>in</strong> <strong>Cyprus</strong><br />

PAPHOS<br />

Cap St Georges Hotel & Resort<br />

Akamas,<br />

Paphos<br />

Type: Villas, 3, 4, 5 and<br />

6-bedroom villas<br />

Price: From €1,800,000 +<br />

Developer: Korant<strong>in</strong>a Homes<br />

<strong>in</strong>fo@korant<strong>in</strong>ahomes.com<br />

www.korant<strong>in</strong>ahomes.com<br />

PAPHOS<br />

SOHO Resort<br />

Tourist Area,<br />

Paphos<br />

Type: Apartments on<br />

15-floor tower and Villas<br />

Price: €1,200,000 – 6,000,000<br />

Developer: Korant<strong>in</strong>a Homes<br />

<strong>in</strong>fo@korant<strong>in</strong>ahomes.com<br />

www.korant<strong>in</strong>ahomes.com<br />

PAPHOS<br />

Topos Residence – Alto Design<br />

M<strong>in</strong>this,<br />

Paphos<br />

Type: 2-bedroom suites and<br />

duplexes, 3-bedroom villas,<br />

3, 4 and 5+ bedroom residences<br />

Price: From €783,000<br />

Developer: Pafilia<br />

Property Developers<br />

Contact: (+357) 26 848 800<br />

<strong>in</strong>fo@pafilia.com<br />

www.m<strong>in</strong>thisresort.com<br />

Watch: Property Video<br />

Watch: Resort Video


DOING BUSINESS C YPRUS<br />

58<br />

UNITED ARAB EMIRATES EDITION<br />

INSIGHT<br />

CEO, Invest <strong>Cyprus</strong><br />

George Campanellas


DOING BUSINESS C YPRUS<br />

59<br />

UNITED ARAB EMIRATES EDITION<br />

<strong>Cyprus</strong> and the United Arab Emirates have friendly<br />

relations and a long history of cooperation. In<br />

terms of <strong>in</strong>vestment, what key projects <strong>in</strong> <strong>Cyprus</strong><br />

have attracted participation from the <strong>UAE</strong>, and<br />

what type of foreign direct <strong>in</strong>vestment would you<br />

like to see from the Emirates <strong>in</strong> the future?<br />

Invest <strong>Cyprus</strong>, as the <strong>in</strong>vestment authority of the Government of <strong>Cyprus</strong> dedicated<br />

to attract<strong>in</strong>g and facilitat<strong>in</strong>g foreign direct <strong>in</strong>vestments, strives to strengthen the<br />

bus<strong>in</strong>ess ties between <strong>Cyprus</strong> and the <strong>UAE</strong>.<br />

The organisation is implement<strong>in</strong>g a strategic plan focused on three ma<strong>in</strong> pillars:<br />

attract<strong>in</strong>g FDIs <strong>in</strong> critical economic sectors, promot<strong>in</strong>g <strong>Cyprus</strong> as an ideal location for<br />

tech companies, and promot<strong>in</strong>g <strong>Cyprus</strong> as the ultimate jurisdiction for <strong>in</strong>vestment<br />

funds and fund managers <strong>in</strong> Europe.<br />

Recently, an agreement for bilateral cooperation between the Abu Dhabi Chamber of<br />

Commerce and Industry and the Cypriot Chamber of Commerce and Industry has been<br />

signed, seal<strong>in</strong>g the strengthened bus<strong>in</strong>ess relationship between the two countries.<br />

Moreover, we are build<strong>in</strong>g a strong relationship with the <strong>UAE</strong>’s Sovereign Wealth<br />

Fund, Mubadala, with which we <strong>in</strong>itiated a discussion to explore ways for a Comprehensive<br />

Strategic Partnership, as part of the collaboration between our governments.<br />

Tourism and hospitality, real estate,<br />

and renewable energy are among the<br />

sectors of the Cypriot economy that offer<br />

diversified and profitable <strong>in</strong>vestment<br />

opportunities. One of the most important<br />

<strong>in</strong>vestments <strong>in</strong> <strong>Cyprus</strong> is that of DP World.<br />

DP World, an Emirati mult<strong>in</strong>ational<br />

logistics company, specialis<strong>in</strong>g <strong>in</strong> cargo<br />

logistics, port term<strong>in</strong>al operations,<br />

ITourism and hospitality, real<br />

estate, and renewable energy are<br />

among the sectors of the Cypriot<br />

economy that offer diversified and<br />

profitable <strong>in</strong>vestment opportunities<br />

maritime services, and free trade zones, was awarded a 25-year concession to operate<br />

the multi-purpose and cruise term<strong>in</strong>al <strong>in</strong> Limassol commenc<strong>in</strong>g <strong>in</strong> February 2017. n


DOING BUSINESS C YPRUS<br />

60<br />

UNITED ARAB EMIRATES EDITION<br />

INCENTIVES<br />

New Government<br />

Action Plan<br />

<strong>Cyprus</strong> has launched a new action plan to attract foreign bus<strong>in</strong>esses<br />

to establish or expand their activities on the island. <strong>Cyprus</strong> already<br />

provides many competitive advantages, but this new set of <strong>in</strong>centives<br />

is geared to ramp up <strong>in</strong>terest for companies to set up headquarters<br />

<strong>in</strong> the country. The plan has taken <strong>in</strong>to account the best practices<br />

from other European countries, with emphasis on doma<strong>in</strong>s related<br />

to technology, shipp<strong>in</strong>g, <strong>in</strong>novation, research and development,<br />

biogenetics and biotechnology, without exclud<strong>in</strong>g any other<br />

companies that choose <strong>Cyprus</strong> as their place of bus<strong>in</strong>ess. The new<br />

strategy which aims to promote foreign <strong>in</strong>vestment and stimulate<br />

economic activity was implemented on January 1, 2022.<br />

The Presidential Palace<br />

THE BUSINESS FACILITATION UNIT<br />

The previous Fast Track <strong>Bus<strong>in</strong>ess</strong> Activation mechanism for companies of foreign<br />

<strong>in</strong>terest has been transformed <strong>in</strong>to a <strong>Bus<strong>in</strong>ess</strong> Facilitation Unit for foreign<br />

companies operat<strong>in</strong>g <strong>in</strong> <strong>Cyprus</strong> or for foreign companies that wish to expand their<br />

operations <strong>in</strong> the country. The new Unit is responsible for the various services required<br />

for the establishment of corporate entities:<br />

• new company name approval and registration<br />

• registration with Social Insurance and VAT authorities,<br />

and with Income Tax authorities<br />

• guidance <strong>in</strong> relation to the establishment, licens<strong>in</strong>g and operations of companies<br />

• issuance and renewal of residence and employment<br />

permits for staff employed by foreign companies


DOING BUSINESS C YPRUS<br />

61<br />

UNITED ARAB EMIRATES EDITION<br />

RESIDENCE AND EMPLOYMENT PERMITS TO HIGHLY SKILLED<br />

THIRD-COUNTRY NATIONALS AND SUPPORTING STAFF<br />

The government has revised the policy for the employment of highly skilled<br />

personnel from third countries employed by companies of foreign <strong>in</strong>terests, as well<br />

as for those employed by Cypriot companies which give added value to the economy<br />

and the local workforce.<br />

ELIGIBLE COMPANIES:<br />

• companies operat<strong>in</strong>g <strong>in</strong> <strong>Cyprus</strong> and are of foreign <strong>in</strong>terest/<br />

sharehold<strong>in</strong>g and ma<strong>in</strong>ta<strong>in</strong> fully fledged offices<br />

• <strong>Cyprus</strong> shipp<strong>in</strong>g companies<br />

• <strong>Cyprus</strong> companies <strong>in</strong>volved <strong>in</strong> <strong>in</strong>novation and technology<br />

• <strong>Cyprus</strong> pharmaceutical companies or companies that<br />

operate <strong>in</strong> the fields of biogenetics or biotechnology<br />

ELIGIBLE COMPANIES CAN EMPLOY HIGHLY SKILLED THIRD COUNTRY<br />

NATIONALS IN KEY POSITIONS IF THE FOLLOWING CRITERIA IS MET:<br />

• a m<strong>in</strong>imum monthly gross salary of €2,500<br />

• candidate must hold a university degree or equivalent, or<br />

have a m<strong>in</strong>imum 2 years’ relevant experience<br />

• m<strong>in</strong>imum two-year contract<br />

• work permits will be issued with<strong>in</strong> a one-month<br />

period and will be valid for three years<br />

• a work permit can also be granted to the spouse of the eligible<br />

<strong>in</strong>dividual that obta<strong>in</strong>s a visa with this scheme<br />

There is a maximum number of third country nationals that may be employed under<br />

this policy. Only 70% of the total number of all employees may be employed under it<br />

<strong>in</strong> a period of five years from the date of<br />

jo<strong>in</strong><strong>in</strong>g the <strong>Bus<strong>in</strong>ess</strong> Facilitation Unit.<br />

Wargam<strong>in</strong>g Headquarters, Nicosia<br />

In case five years have passed and it is<br />

not possible to employ 30% of Cypriot<br />

workers, it will be re-exam<strong>in</strong>ed on a caseby-case<br />

basis.<br />

Eligible companies will also be allowed<br />

to employ third-country nationals as<br />

support staff with a gross monthly salary<br />

less than €2,500. The employment of<br />

third-country nationals as support staff<br />

is allowed, provided that it does not<br />

exceed 30% of the total support staff and<br />

provided that the third country nationals<br />

and the employers have entered <strong>in</strong>to an<br />

employment contract approved by the<br />

relevant authority <strong>in</strong> accordance with<br />

the applicable law. The amount of their<br />

salary is to be determ<strong>in</strong>ed by the current<br />

legislation.


DOING BUSINESS C YPRUS<br />

62<br />

UNITED ARAB EMIRATES EDITION<br />

CASE STUDY<br />

THREE-STEP<br />

COMPANY<br />

REGISTRATION<br />

Company registration <strong>in</strong> <strong>Cyprus</strong> is simple and<br />

efficient. This is an example of the required<br />

steps for a simple and straightforward set up <strong>in</strong><br />

<strong>Cyprus</strong> for a small or medium sized company.<br />

THREE EASY STEPS:<br />

1REGISTRATION OF THE COMPANY<br />

Registration must be done at the Department of Registrar of Companies<br />

and Intellectual Property. It is advised to seek professional advice and<br />

once your lawyer has filed for registration, it can be expedited and<br />

completed <strong>in</strong> one (1) bus<strong>in</strong>ess day. The adm<strong>in</strong>istrative cost is €395, lawyer’s<br />

or adm<strong>in</strong>istrative service provider’s fees not <strong>in</strong>cluded.<br />

2SUBMIT A ‘LETTER OF INTENT’<br />

A ‘Letter of Intent’ must be submitted along with the supportive<br />

documents required through email to the <strong>Bus<strong>in</strong>ess</strong> Facilitation Unit<br />

(BFU) to register the company as Company with Foreign Interests.<br />

This takes no more than seven (7) bus<strong>in</strong>ess days.<br />

3BOOK AN APPOINTMENT<br />

F<strong>in</strong>ally, you must book an appo<strong>in</strong>tment to register the company’s<br />

employees with the Civil Registry & Migration Department (CRMD).<br />

Only 3-5 employees per appo<strong>in</strong>tment, adm<strong>in</strong>istrative cost is<br />

€330 per employee, lawyer’s or adm<strong>in</strong>istrative service provider’s fees not<br />

<strong>in</strong>cluded. Once you book an appo<strong>in</strong>tment, the licence of the employee for<br />

temporary residence and employment takes 40 days to be issued.<br />

• Simply visit the book<strong>in</strong>g website. Select a convenient language<br />

option and choose: Town (Nicosia)→ Third-country nationals→<br />

Companies registered at the <strong>Bus<strong>in</strong>ess</strong> Facilitation Unit and select a date.<br />

• Regard<strong>in</strong>g the stipulations for ‘Employ<strong>in</strong>g Third-Country<br />

Nationals’ please visit this webpage of the CRMD’s website and have a<br />

look at the documents and fees.


DOING BUSINESS C YPRUS<br />

63<br />

UNITED ARAB EMIRATES EDITION<br />

FAMILY REUNIFICATION RIGHTS<br />

Family reunification rights are granted to third-country nationals employed by this<br />

revised policy and regulated by the <strong>Bus<strong>in</strong>ess</strong> Facilitation Unit. Direct and free access<br />

to the labour market as paid employees is granted to spouses of the third-country<br />

nationals who have obta<strong>in</strong>ed a residence and work permit <strong>in</strong> <strong>Cyprus</strong>, through this<br />

revised policy and who receive a m<strong>in</strong>imum gross monthly salary of €2,500. This right<br />

does not extend to support<strong>in</strong>g staff who receive a monthly salary of less than €2,500.<br />

SIMPLIFICATION OF GRANTING WORK PERMITS UNDER CATEGORY E<br />

The action plan provides for the simplification and acceleration of the process of<br />

grant<strong>in</strong>g immigration and work permits under Category E – Long-Term Resident Status<br />

to persons who have been offered permanent employment and whose employment<br />

does not create undue local competition.<br />

DIGITAL NOMAD VISA<br />

Significantly the new Action Plan provides for the <strong>in</strong>troduction and the issu<strong>in</strong>g of Digital<br />

Nomad Visas with a maximum <strong>in</strong>itial limit of 100 beneficiaries.<br />

WHO IS ELIGIBLE:<br />

Third-country nationals who are either self-employed or are employees who work<br />

remotely us<strong>in</strong>g <strong>in</strong>formation and communication technologies to communicate with<br />

their clients or employers who must be outside <strong>Cyprus</strong>.<br />

WHAT RIGHTS DO YOU GET:<br />

• right to stay <strong>in</strong> the country for up to one year, with the<br />

right to renew their visas for another two years<br />

• can be accompanied by family members, to whom a residence permit is granted<br />

upon request, which will expire at the same time as that of the ma<strong>in</strong> applicant<br />

• dur<strong>in</strong>g their stay <strong>in</strong> <strong>Cyprus</strong>, the spouse or partner and the m<strong>in</strong>or<br />

members of the ma<strong>in</strong> applicant’s family are not allowed to<br />

engage <strong>in</strong> any k<strong>in</strong>d of economic activity <strong>in</strong> the country<br />

WHAT ARE THE CONDITIONS:<br />

• must show evidence of sufficient resources at a fixed <strong>in</strong>come level of a<br />

m<strong>in</strong>imum €3,500/month to cover liv<strong>in</strong>g expenses dur<strong>in</strong>g their stay without<br />

burden<strong>in</strong>g the national and welfare system (the amount is <strong>in</strong>creased by 20%<br />

<strong>in</strong> case they have a wife/husband/partner and another 10% per child)<br />

• must have <strong>in</strong>surance coverage and a clean crim<strong>in</strong>al record<br />

• the aforementioned prerequisites are <strong>in</strong>dicative and<br />

additional requirements are applicable<br />

In the event that the holders of Digital Nomad Visas reside <strong>in</strong> the Republic for one or more<br />

periods that <strong>in</strong> total exceed 183 days with<strong>in</strong> the same tax year, then they are considered<br />

tax residents of <strong>Cyprus</strong> provided they are not tax residents <strong>in</strong> any other state.


DOING BUSINESS C YPRUS<br />

64<br />

UNITED ARAB EMIRATES EDITION<br />

NEW TAX INCENTIVES<br />

The new Action Plan also <strong>in</strong>cludes the <strong>in</strong>troduction of new tax benefits and tax<br />

breaks which were submitted to the House of Representatives <strong>in</strong> 2021.<br />

NEW INCENTIVES:<br />

• a 50% tax exemption to be granted to new residents/employees who<br />

receive an annual <strong>in</strong>come from their employment of €55,000<br />

• extension of the tax exemption applicable to eligible employees <strong>in</strong><br />

<strong>Cyprus</strong> who have an <strong>in</strong>come below €100,000 from 10 years to 17<br />

years provided they were not domiciled <strong>in</strong> the Republic for a period<br />

of 17 years prior to the commencement of their employment<br />

• beneficiaries of this tax benefit with an <strong>in</strong>come of €55,000-€100,000 should be<br />

entitled to benefit from this exemption for the rema<strong>in</strong><strong>in</strong>g period of the 17 years<br />

• extension of the 50% tax exemption for <strong>in</strong>vestment <strong>in</strong> certified <strong>in</strong>novative<br />

companies to corporate <strong>in</strong>vestors. The regime that was <strong>in</strong> force until the<br />

end of June 2021 allowed the tax exemption only to natural persons<br />

• a 120% capital allowance on expenses that relate to R&D<br />

View from 360, Cyfield<br />

NATURALISATION<br />

The government has <strong>in</strong>troduced the right to submit an application for naturalisation<br />

after five years of residency and employment <strong>in</strong> <strong>Cyprus</strong> <strong>in</strong>stead of the former sevenyear<br />

rule or a further reduction to four years if the potential applicants meet the<br />

criteria of hold<strong>in</strong>g a recognised certificate of very good knowledge of the Greek<br />

language. n


FLAVOURS<br />

OF<br />

<strong>Cyprus</strong><br />

ts@meci.gov.cy<br />

www.meci.gov.cy


DOING BUSINESS C YPRUS<br />

66<br />

UNITED ARAB EMIRATES EDITION<br />

INTERVIEW<br />

<strong>Cyprus</strong>-GCC Countries <strong>Bus<strong>in</strong>ess</strong> Association President<br />

Yiannis Sophianos<br />

The economic cooperation between <strong>Cyprus</strong> and<br />

the <strong>UAE</strong> currently focuses on many major goods,<br />

but the possibilities are significant and widerang<strong>in</strong>g,<br />

render<strong>in</strong>g the <strong>UAE</strong> a strategic partner for<br />

<strong>Cyprus</strong> and vice-versa, says Yiannis Sophianos.


DOING BUSINESS C YPRUS<br />

67<br />

UNITED ARAB EMIRATES EDITION<br />

How would you describe the current trade<br />

relations between <strong>Cyprus</strong> and the <strong>UAE</strong>?<br />

Trade relations between <strong>Cyprus</strong> and the <strong>UAE</strong> date back several decades, s<strong>in</strong>ce<br />

the 1960s. In recent years, we have seen an <strong>in</strong>crease <strong>in</strong> the bilateral relations<br />

between the two countries, with a number of official high-level visits at presidential,<br />

parliamentary and m<strong>in</strong>isterial levels, aim<strong>in</strong>g to further expand the economic and<br />

political relationships between the two.<br />

Dur<strong>in</strong>g the recent visit to the <strong>UAE</strong> <strong>in</strong> light of the Dubai Expo, by President<br />

Anastasiades and a delegation of government officials and bus<strong>in</strong>esspeople, the<br />

M<strong>in</strong>isters of Energy, Transport, Defence, Agriculture, F<strong>in</strong>ance and the Deputy<br />

M<strong>in</strong>isters of Tourism, Innovation and Shipp<strong>in</strong>g held bilateral meet<strong>in</strong>gs with their<br />

<strong>UAE</strong> counterparts to discuss the enhancement of the relations between <strong>Cyprus</strong><br />

and the <strong>UAE</strong>. The discussions focused especially on the areas of energy, trade<br />

and <strong>in</strong>vestments, tourism and culture, education, science and technology, as well<br />

as shipp<strong>in</strong>g and maritime transport. The recent agreements signed by President<br />

Anastasiades and the <strong>UAE</strong> government are expected to boost the f<strong>in</strong>ancial and<br />

commercial relations between the two countries, with promis<strong>in</strong>g prospects for both.<br />

What economic sectors <strong>in</strong> <strong>Cyprus</strong> have seen<br />

significant <strong>in</strong>vestment and participation from the<br />

<strong>UAE</strong>, and <strong>in</strong> what type of projects and activity?<br />

Cooperation between the two countries covers a wide range of fields. Based on 2021<br />

stats, <strong>Cyprus</strong>’ domestic exports to the <strong>UAE</strong> reached €10.2 million and re-export<br />

trade from <strong>Cyprus</strong> to the <strong>UAE</strong> reached €10.3 million. Imports to <strong>Cyprus</strong> from the <strong>UAE</strong><br />

reached €57.9 million.<br />

The economic cooperation between <strong>Cyprus</strong> and the <strong>UAE</strong> currently focuses on many<br />

major goods. The more major exports from <strong>Cyprus</strong> to the <strong>UAE</strong> regard agricultural<br />

products, pharmaceutical products and mechanical appliances, while the highest<br />

imports concern raw materials (e.g.<br />

alum<strong>in</strong>ium), a wide range of electrical<br />

and electronic equipment, jewellery and<br />

precious metals.<br />

<strong>Cyprus</strong> and the <strong>UAE</strong> have also agreed<br />

to coord<strong>in</strong>ate on electricity networks,<br />

electricity markets, the <strong>in</strong>tegration<br />

of renewable energy sources, sav<strong>in</strong>g<br />

and efficiency. Furthermore, the two<br />

countries are consider<strong>in</strong>g <strong>in</strong>vestment<br />

opportunities <strong>in</strong> the hydrocarbons sector<br />

and renewable energy. Moreover, the<br />

I<strong>Cyprus</strong> has an abundance of<br />

competitive advantages for<br />

bus<strong>in</strong>esses and <strong>in</strong>vestors from<br />

the <strong>UAE</strong>. The geographical<br />

proximity, along with the fact<br />

that <strong>Cyprus</strong> is an EU and eurozone<br />

member, make our island a<br />

valuable gateway to the EU.


DOING BUSINESS C YPRUS<br />

68<br />

UNITED ARAB EMIRATES EDITION<br />

<strong>in</strong>vestment authorities of the two countries are explor<strong>in</strong>g potential opportunities for<br />

cooperation on large-scale <strong>in</strong>vestment projects for strategic economic sectors, such<br />

as tourism and hospitality, and other large <strong>in</strong>frastructure projects. It is important to<br />

note that the number of tourists arriv<strong>in</strong>g to <strong>Cyprus</strong> from the <strong>UAE</strong> <strong>in</strong> 2019, before the<br />

pandemic, exceeded 20,000 tourists. The possibilities are significant and wide-rang<strong>in</strong>g,<br />

render<strong>in</strong>g the <strong>UAE</strong> a strategic partner for <strong>Cyprus</strong> and vice-versa.<br />

What advantages does <strong>Cyprus</strong> offer specifically<br />

to <strong>UAE</strong> companies and <strong>in</strong>vestors?<br />

<strong>Cyprus</strong> has an abundance of competitive advantages for bus<strong>in</strong>esses and <strong>in</strong>vestors<br />

from the <strong>UAE</strong>. The geographical proximity, along with the fact that <strong>Cyprus</strong> is an<br />

EU and eurozone member, make our island a valuable gateway to the EU. Moreover,<br />

<strong>Cyprus</strong> offers an attractive tax system, high-quality professional services and a modern<br />

<strong>in</strong>frastructure <strong>in</strong> transport, communications, and other sectors. All these factors,<br />

comb<strong>in</strong>ed with the safe environment of the island, serve as benefits for every <strong>UAE</strong><br />

company that would like to <strong>in</strong>vest <strong>in</strong> <strong>Cyprus</strong> or cooperate with other companies that<br />

are based on the island.<br />

What new prospects and opportunities could be cultivated<br />

to facilitate more bus<strong>in</strong>ess between <strong>Cyprus</strong> and the <strong>UAE</strong>?<br />

<strong>Cyprus</strong> is focus<strong>in</strong>g efforts on the<br />

development of emerg<strong>in</strong>g sectors,<br />

such energy, <strong>in</strong>novation, digital<br />

transformation, the private medical<br />

sector, private education, green and blue<br />

development, and susta<strong>in</strong>ability, to name<br />

a few. All these areas offer significant<br />

<strong>in</strong>vestment opportunities that can be<br />

very beneficial to <strong>in</strong>vestors from the <strong>UAE</strong>,<br />

enhanc<strong>in</strong>g the f<strong>in</strong>ancial and bus<strong>in</strong>ess<br />

cooperation between the two countries.<br />

Many of these emerg<strong>in</strong>g sectors, like<br />

energy, education, tourism, technology<br />

and shipp<strong>in</strong>g, are already <strong>in</strong>cluded <strong>in</strong><br />

the new agreements signed by the two<br />

countries.<br />

I<strong>Cyprus</strong> is focus<strong>in</strong>g efforts<br />

on the development of<br />

emerg<strong>in</strong>g sectors, such<br />

energy, <strong>in</strong>novation, digital<br />

transformation, the private<br />

medical sector, private<br />

education, green and<br />

blue development, and<br />

susta<strong>in</strong>ability, to name a few.<br />

All these areas offer significant<br />

<strong>in</strong>vestment opportunities<br />

that can be very beneficial<br />

to <strong>in</strong>vestors from the <strong>UAE</strong>.


DOING BUSINESS C YPRUS<br />

69<br />

UNITED ARAB EMIRATES EDITION<br />

How does the <strong>Cyprus</strong>-GCC Countries <strong>Bus<strong>in</strong>ess</strong><br />

Association support and foster bus<strong>in</strong>ess<br />

l<strong>in</strong>ks between the two countries?<br />

T<br />

he <strong>Cyprus</strong>-GCC Countries <strong>Bus<strong>in</strong>ess</strong> Association operates under the auspices of the<br />

<strong>Cyprus</strong> Chamber of Commerce and Industry and fosters the expansion of bus<strong>in</strong>ess<br />

relations between the two countries <strong>in</strong> every possible way. Exchange of <strong>in</strong>formation<br />

and delegations, organisation of bus<strong>in</strong>ess forums and sem<strong>in</strong>ars, and other cooperation<br />

<strong>in</strong>itiatives, aim at foster<strong>in</strong>g and promot<strong>in</strong>g the bilateral relations between <strong>Cyprus</strong> and<br />

the <strong>UAE</strong>.<br />

The Association works <strong>in</strong> close cooperation with both governments and chambers<br />

to constantly improve the context and framework for a closer and more beneficial<br />

cooperation between the two countries, as well as the rest of the GCC members. As an<br />

association, our ma<strong>in</strong> aim is to promote and further strengthen the socioeconomic<br />

and trade relations between <strong>Cyprus</strong> and the GCC Countries, especially through the<br />

expansion of imports, exports and the provision of a wide range of services. It is an<br />

exclusive bilateral and regional bus<strong>in</strong>ess network with strategic connections and<br />

partnerships, for any Cypriot or foreign company <strong>in</strong>terested <strong>in</strong> do<strong>in</strong>g bus<strong>in</strong>ess <strong>in</strong> the<br />

respective countries. n


DOING BUSINESS C YPRUS<br />

70<br />

UNITED ARAB EMIRATES EDITION<br />

BUSINESS OPERATING ENVIRONMENT<br />

DOING<br />

BUSINESS<br />

INCYPRUS<br />

€<br />

<strong>Cyprus</strong>’ bus<strong>in</strong>ess-friendly <strong>in</strong>frastructure and cando<br />

attitude has brought it worldwide recognition<br />

as an <strong>in</strong>ternational bus<strong>in</strong>ess centre. The country<br />

offers a w<strong>in</strong>n<strong>in</strong>g package for both <strong>in</strong>ternational<br />

entrepreneurs and <strong>in</strong>vestors with its sophisticated<br />

bus<strong>in</strong>ess environment, highly skilled workforce<br />

and cost-effective, yet high quality of life.


DOING BUSINESS C YPRUS<br />

71<br />

UNITED ARAB EMIRATES EDITION<br />

BUSINESS CULTURE<br />

Respect, hospitality and personal trust are the cornerstones of the Cypriot bus<strong>in</strong>ess<br />

environment. An island nation with a long history of deal<strong>in</strong>g with foreign traders<br />

and bus<strong>in</strong>esses, Cypriot bus<strong>in</strong>esspeople are <strong>in</strong>ternational <strong>in</strong> their outlook and astute<br />

and knowledgeable <strong>in</strong> their negotiations. Punctuality is expected, bus<strong>in</strong>ess dress is<br />

formal for both men and women, especially at the beg<strong>in</strong>n<strong>in</strong>g of a bus<strong>in</strong>ess relationship,<br />

and even <strong>in</strong> warm weather. Most Cypriots prefer face-to-face meet<strong>in</strong>gs to telephone<br />

conferences or written communications, which are regarded as too impersonal, and<br />

place great importance on build<strong>in</strong>g personal relationships with bus<strong>in</strong>ess partners or<br />

connections. Trust is the key to successful bus<strong>in</strong>ess deal<strong>in</strong>gs <strong>in</strong> <strong>Cyprus</strong>.<br />

LANGUAGE<br />

Greek and Turkish are the official languages of <strong>Cyprus</strong>. However, English, the<br />

legacy of the British who ruled <strong>Cyprus</strong> from 1878 to 1960, is widely spoken and is<br />

the language of bus<strong>in</strong>ess. Many Cypriots also speak French, German or Russian.<br />

BUSINESS HOURS<br />

Office hours are generally 8.30am to 1.00pm and 2.00pm to 5.30pm, Monday to<br />

Friday. Although <strong>in</strong> summer some offices take a longer lunch break or f<strong>in</strong>ish early.<br />

Nicosia


DOING BUSINESS C YPRUS<br />

72<br />

UNITED ARAB EMIRATES EDITION<br />

BUSINESS COSTS<br />

An EU base with<strong>in</strong> the eurozone, <strong>Cyprus</strong> rema<strong>in</strong>s one of the few <strong>in</strong>ternational<br />

bus<strong>in</strong>ess centres offer<strong>in</strong>g low operational costs and a high standard of liv<strong>in</strong>g.<br />

Office space and residential property <strong>in</strong> Nicosia, the capital and major bus<strong>in</strong>ess<br />

centre, is relatively <strong>in</strong>expensive when compared to other European capitals.<br />

In terms of cost of liv<strong>in</strong>g, <strong>Cyprus</strong> rema<strong>in</strong>s one of the most advantageous places to<br />

live, with cost of liv<strong>in</strong>g lower than <strong>in</strong> most Western European countries. At the same<br />

time, residents of <strong>Cyprus</strong> enjoy a high standard of liv<strong>in</strong>g and exceptional quality of<br />

life, as the balmy climate and low crime rate offer both comfort and peace of m<strong>in</strong>d.<br />

<strong>Bus<strong>in</strong>ess</strong> Costs <strong>Cyprus</strong> EU27 Average<br />

Labour (bus<strong>in</strong>ess sector) €18.30 €29.10<br />

Communications (services & equipment)* 109 100<br />

Electricity (households) €0.2204/kWh €0.2369/kWh<br />

Electricity (non-households) €0.1946/kWh €0.1445/kWh<br />

* EU average is set to equal 100<br />

Source: Eurostat (2021)<br />

Limassol Mar<strong>in</strong>a<br />

COMMERCIAL AND RESIDENTIAL PROPERTY<br />

<strong>Cyprus</strong> offers a full range of properties for both commercial and residential use<br />

situated <strong>in</strong> key locations across the island. While the exclusive, top-level market<br />

is currently the most sought after, the island has a good stock of properties available,<br />

from townhouses and apartments, to villas and seaside bungalows <strong>in</strong> five-star gated<br />

developments. Nicosia and Limassol are the ma<strong>in</strong> bus<strong>in</strong>ess centres. Office space<br />

is available <strong>in</strong> purpose-built office blocks, <strong>in</strong> converted houses or flats. A number of<br />

bus<strong>in</strong>ess centres also offer ready-to-move-<strong>in</strong>to offices. They usually <strong>in</strong>clude fully<br />

equipped offices that are available on demand with flexible terms, meet<strong>in</strong>g rooms<br />

and a receptionist service. Overall, rentals are around two-thirds of those charged<br />

for comparable commercial spaces <strong>in</strong> cont<strong>in</strong>ental Europe, and offices, retail or other<br />

commercial space is widely available for purchase or for rent.


DOING BUSINESS C YPRUS<br />

73<br />

UNITED ARAB EMIRATES EDITION<br />

300<br />

200<br />

COMPARISON OF ESTIMATED AVERAGE RENT LEVELS<br />

FOR FLATS, 2021 (BRUSSELS = 100)<br />

European<br />

Union<br />

Europe<br />

(others)<br />

100<br />

0<br />

225<br />

216<br />

199<br />

199<br />

197<br />

171<br />

134<br />

128<br />

122<br />

122<br />

119<br />

109<br />

104<br />

100<br />

99<br />

99<br />

Dubl<strong>in</strong><br />

Copenhagen<br />

Paris<br />

Luxembourg<br />

Stockholm<br />

Hels<strong>in</strong>ki<br />

Berl<strong>in</strong><br />

The Hague<br />

Madrid<br />

Vienna<br />

Lisbon<br />

Rome<br />

Vilnius<br />

Brussels<br />

Valletta<br />

Ljubljana<br />

Budapest<br />

Tall<strong>in</strong>n<br />

Athens<br />

Prague<br />

Zagreb<br />

Riga<br />

Bratislava<br />

Warsaw<br />

Bucharest<br />

Nicosia<br />

Sofia<br />

London<br />

Geneva<br />

Rejkjavik<br />

Oslo<br />

Podgorica<br />

98<br />

98<br />

98<br />

96<br />

94<br />

84<br />

81<br />

74<br />

71<br />

64<br />

46<br />

278<br />

227<br />

188<br />

178<br />

54<br />

Note: Rents <strong>in</strong> currencies other than the Euro were converted accord<strong>in</strong>g to the exchange rate as of 1 July 2021.<br />

Source: Eurostat<br />

OFFICE SPACE<br />

In terms of office rental and sales prices, Limassol cont<strong>in</strong>ues to be the most expensive<br />

region followed by Nicosia, Larnaca, Paphos and Famagusta respectively.<br />

OFFICE SALE AND RENTAL PRICES PER CITY (2022)<br />

Sale Prices (per m 2 ) Rental Prices (per m 2 )<br />

Famagusta €1,300-€1,500 €6-€10<br />

Larnaca €1,800-€2,500 €8-€10<br />

LImassol €4,500-€6,500 €20-€40<br />

Nicosia €3,500-€4,500 €12-€22<br />

Paphos €1,400-€2,000 €7-€10<br />

Source: Danos International Property Consultants<br />

HUMAN RESOURCES<br />

Well-tra<strong>in</strong>ed and versatile, the Cypriot workforce is one of the island’s most<br />

valuable resources, offer<strong>in</strong>g high standards of productivity, technical expertise<br />

and professional excellence at reasonable costs to bus<strong>in</strong>esses.<br />

Accord<strong>in</strong>g to the Statistical Service <strong>in</strong> <strong>Cyprus</strong>, the country records the most higher<br />

education graduates per capita (age 30-34) <strong>in</strong> the European Union.<br />

The Cypriot labour force amounted to 482,385 persons or 65.1% of the population<br />

(males 71.2%, females 59.5%) <strong>in</strong> the Q2 of 2022. The biggest percentage of employed<br />

persons was <strong>in</strong> services (80.7%), followed by manufactur<strong>in</strong>g (16.8%) and agriculture<br />

(2.5%).


DOING BUSINESS C YPRUS<br />

74<br />

UNITED ARAB EMIRATES EDITION<br />

SALARY SURVEY 2022 Source: GRS Recruitment<br />

JOB TITLE LOW (€) MID (€) HIGH (€)<br />

Management CEO 60,000 100,000 150,000<br />

Executive Director 60,000 100,000 140,000<br />

CFO 65,000 80,000 120,000<br />

Account<strong>in</strong>g & F<strong>in</strong>ance F<strong>in</strong>ancial Controller 55,000 60,000 75,000<br />

F<strong>in</strong>ance Manager / Senior Accountant 40,000 55,000 65,000<br />

Accountant / Auditor (Qualified) 34,000 38,000 45,000<br />

Accountant / Auditor (Part Qualified or QBE) 24,000 30,000 36,000<br />

Account Assistant 16,000 22,000 25,000<br />

HR Department Head of HR / Group of HRM 55,000 80,000 120,000<br />

HR Manager 40,000 50,000 60,000<br />

HR Executive 18,000 21,000 24,000<br />

Legal Deparment Head of Legal / Group Legal Head 60,000 90,000 130,000<br />

Legal Advisor (Qualified Lawyer) 24,000 39,000 54,000<br />

Legal Assistant / Paralegal / None Qualified Lawyer 18,000 20,000 24,000<br />

Compliance, Anti-Money Head of Compliance 50,000 64,000 72,000<br />

Launder<strong>in</strong>g (AML), Counter - Compliance / AML / CTF / Manager 42,000 46,000 52,000<br />

Terrorist F<strong>in</strong>anc<strong>in</strong>g (CTF) Compliance / AML / CTF / Officer 26,000 32,000 40,000<br />

Deal<strong>in</strong>g Room Chief Dealer 45,000 52,000 60,000<br />

Dealer 24,000 33,000 45,000<br />

Junior Dealer 18,000 20,000 22,000<br />

IT Development Head of IT / CTO 60,000 80,000 140,000<br />

IT Manager / Development Manager 50,000 60,000 80,000<br />

Quality Assurance (QA) / Tester 26,000 36,000 46,000<br />

IT Technician 20,000 24,000 36,000<br />

Developer* 28,000 42,000 60,000<br />

Market<strong>in</strong>g Department Head of Market<strong>in</strong>g 42,000 50,000 72,000<br />

Market<strong>in</strong>g Officer 24,000 30,000 36,000<br />

Digital Market<strong>in</strong>g Specialist (Social, PPC / SEO) 26,000 34,000 42,000<br />

Market<strong>in</strong>g Executive 18,000 22,000 24,000<br />

Graphic Designer 24,000 30,000 36,000<br />

Content Writer 24,000 32,000 40,000<br />

Sales Department Head of Sales 42,000 60,000 75,000<br />

FX Sales* 20,000 24,000 30,000<br />

Sales Executive (Industries other than FX / F<strong>in</strong>tech) 18,000 22,000 26,000<br />

Adm<strong>in</strong>istration Office Manager / PA / EA 18,000 28,000 39,000<br />

Adm<strong>in</strong>istator / Receptionist 17,000 20,000 24,000<br />

Corporate Adm<strong>in</strong>istrator 20,000 28,000 36,000


DOING BUSINESS C YPRUS<br />

75<br />

UNITED ARAB EMIRATES EDITION<br />

Taxation<br />

<strong>Cyprus</strong> offers one of the most attractive tax regimes<br />

<strong>in</strong> Europe. A member of the European Union s<strong>in</strong>ce<br />

2004, <strong>Cyprus</strong>’ regulatory regime is <strong>in</strong> full compliance<br />

with the requirements of the EU and OECD. <strong>Cyprus</strong> has<br />

one of the lowest EU corporate tax rates at 12.5%. The<br />

island’s advantageous tax rate coupled with an extensive<br />

list of double tax treaties places it high on the list of<br />

preferred jurisdictions for <strong>in</strong>ternational tax planners.<br />

CORPORATION TAX<br />

The Corporation Tax Rate <strong>in</strong> <strong>Cyprus</strong> is 12.5%.<br />

BASIS OF TAXATION<br />

All companies that are tax residents of <strong>Cyprus</strong> are taxed on their <strong>in</strong>come accrued or<br />

derived from all sources <strong>in</strong> <strong>Cyprus</strong> and abroad. A non-<strong>Cyprus</strong> tax resident company<br />

is taxed on <strong>in</strong>come accrued or derived from a bus<strong>in</strong>ess activity which is carried out<br />

through a permanent establishment <strong>in</strong> <strong>Cyprus</strong> and on certa<strong>in</strong> <strong>in</strong>come aris<strong>in</strong>g from<br />

sources <strong>in</strong> <strong>Cyprus</strong>. A company is considered tax resident of <strong>Cyprus</strong> if it is managed and<br />

controlled from <strong>Cyprus</strong>.<br />

Trilogy, Limassol


DOING BUSINESS C YPRUS<br />

76<br />

UNITED ARAB EMIRATES EDITION<br />

SPECIAL TYPES OF COMPANIES<br />

SHIPPING COMPANIES<br />

The Merchant Shipp<strong>in</strong>g Legislation, fully approved by the EU, provides for an exemption<br />

from all direct taxes and taxation under tonnage tax regime. The merchant shipp<strong>in</strong>g<br />

legislation applies to qualify<strong>in</strong>g shipowners, charterers and ship managers, which<br />

are <strong>in</strong>volved with the operation of qualify<strong>in</strong>g community ships (ships under a CY flag<br />

or a flag of an EU member state or of a country <strong>in</strong> the European Economic Area) and<br />

foreign (non-community) ships (under conditions) and provided that they engage <strong>in</strong><br />

qualify<strong>in</strong>g activities. The legislation allows non community vessels to enter the tonnage<br />

tax regime provided the fleet is composed by at least 60% community vessels. If this<br />

requirement is not met, then non community vessels can still qualify if certa<strong>in</strong> criteria<br />

are met. Exemption is also given <strong>in</strong> relation to the salaries of officers and crew aboard<br />

a <strong>Cyprus</strong> ship.<br />

INSURANCE COMPANIES<br />

Profits of <strong>in</strong>surance companies are liable to corporation tax similar to all other<br />

companies except <strong>in</strong> the case where the corporation tax payable on taxable profit of life<br />

<strong>in</strong>surance bus<strong>in</strong>ess is less than 1.5% of the gross premium. In this case the difference is<br />

paid as additional corporation tax.<br />

ADMINISTRATION AND COMPLIANCE<br />

The tax year is the calendar year. The accounts of a company may be closed on a date<br />

different from 31 st of December, <strong>in</strong> which case taxable profits are apportioned on a time<br />

basis relevant to the tax years.<br />

CONSOLIDATED RETURNS<br />

Taxation on a consolidated basis is not permitted and each company is required to<br />

submit a separate standalone tax return. A set-off of group losses is possible provided<br />

there is a 75% parent subsidiary relationship, <strong>in</strong>clud<strong>in</strong>g subsidiaries under 75% control<br />

of a common parent company. Group loss relief is available only between resident<br />

companies (and EU-based companies/companies with which <strong>Cyprus</strong> has concluded a<br />

double tax treaty, provided that they have exhausted all options to utilise the losses <strong>in</strong><br />

their country of residence).<br />

FILING REQUIREMENTS<br />

Corporate tax returns must be filed electronically by the 31 st of March of the year follow<strong>in</strong>g<br />

the year under consideration (i.e. 15 months from the year-end). Companies are required<br />

to pay provisional tax <strong>in</strong> two equal <strong>in</strong>stalments by 31 st of July and 31 st of December of the<br />

year under consideration. Any underpayment is due to be settled via self-assessment by<br />

1 st of August of the follow<strong>in</strong>g year. If the <strong>in</strong>come declared for the payment of the provisional<br />

tax is lower than 75% of the actual <strong>in</strong>come as f<strong>in</strong>ally determ<strong>in</strong>ed, an additional tax equal<br />

to 10% of the difference between the f<strong>in</strong>al and provisional tax is payable.


DOING BUSINESS C YPRUS<br />

77<br />

UNITED ARAB EMIRATES EDITION<br />

PERSONAL INCOME TAX<br />

BASIS OF TAXATION<br />

All <strong>Cyprus</strong> tax residents are taxed <strong>in</strong> <strong>Cyprus</strong> on all <strong>in</strong>come accrued or derived from<br />

all sources <strong>in</strong> <strong>Cyprus</strong> and abroad such as employment <strong>in</strong>come, rental <strong>in</strong>come etc. (i.e.<br />

worldwide <strong>in</strong>come).<br />

Individuals who are not tax residents of <strong>Cyprus</strong> are taxed on <strong>in</strong>come accrued or<br />

derived from sources <strong>in</strong> <strong>Cyprus</strong>.<br />

An <strong>in</strong>dividual is tax resident <strong>in</strong> <strong>Cyprus</strong> if one of the follow<strong>in</strong>g conditions are met:<br />

• he/she spends physically <strong>in</strong> <strong>Cyprus</strong> over 183 days dur<strong>in</strong>g the relevant tax year, or<br />

• he/she does not rema<strong>in</strong> <strong>in</strong> any other state for one or more periods which altogether<br />

exceed 183 days <strong>in</strong> the same tax year and he/she is not tax resident <strong>in</strong> any other<br />

state for the same tax year and all the follow<strong>in</strong>g conditions are cumulatively met:<br />

• he/she should rema<strong>in</strong> <strong>in</strong> <strong>Cyprus</strong> for at least 60 days dur<strong>in</strong>g the tax year<br />

• he/she should pursue any bus<strong>in</strong>ess <strong>in</strong> <strong>Cyprus</strong> and/or to work <strong>in</strong> <strong>Cyprus</strong> and/or to<br />

be a director <strong>in</strong> a company tax resident <strong>in</strong> <strong>Cyprus</strong> at any time dur<strong>in</strong>g the tax year<br />

• he/she should ma<strong>in</strong>ta<strong>in</strong> a permanent residence <strong>in</strong> <strong>Cyprus</strong>,<br />

which can be either owned or rented by him/her<br />

The personal <strong>in</strong>come tax rates that apply to <strong>in</strong>dividuals are as follows:<br />

Taxable Income TaxRate (%) Tax (€) Accumulated Tax (€)<br />

0-19,500 0 0 0<br />

19,501- 28,000 20 1,700 1,700<br />

28,001-36,300 25 2,075 3,775<br />

36,301-60,000 30 7,110 10,885<br />

60,001 and over 35


DOING BUSINESS C YPRUS<br />

78<br />

UNITED ARAB EMIRATES EDITION<br />

TAX INCENTIVES FOR EXPATRIATE EMPLOYEES TAKING UP EMPLOYMENT IN CYPRUS:<br />

The <strong>in</strong>dividuals who were non-Cypriot tax residents prior to the commencement of<br />

their employment, but become Cypriot tax residents afterwards, are eligible for a 50%<br />

exemption from <strong>in</strong>come tax if all the follow<strong>in</strong>g conditions are met:<br />

• their remuneration from the employment exercised<br />

<strong>in</strong> <strong>Cyprus</strong> is over €55,000 per annum; and<br />

• they were not tax residents of <strong>Cyprus</strong> for 10 consecutive years<br />

prior to the commencement of their employment; and<br />

• the exemption is available from 1 January 2022, it is granted from the first<br />

year of employment and it can be enjoyed for a period of 17 years<br />

• <strong>in</strong>dividuals with annual remuneration below €55,000 who were non-Cypriot<br />

tax residents <strong>in</strong> the 3 years preced<strong>in</strong>g their employment, are eligible for a 20%<br />

exemption from <strong>in</strong>come tax (maximum exempt amount is €8,550 per year)<br />

The exemption is available from the 1 st of January follow<strong>in</strong>g the year of commencement<br />

of the employment and can be enjoyed for a period of 7 years.<br />

It is important to note that the above provisions were recently <strong>in</strong>troduced (published<br />

<strong>in</strong> the Official Gazette of the Republic on 26/07/2022 ) as amendments to the previous<br />

rules that were applicable until the publication date. The amended provisions also<br />

<strong>in</strong>clude certa<strong>in</strong> transitional provisions that may enable the <strong>in</strong>dividuals that claimed<br />

the exemptions based on the previous rules to enjoy the exemptions based on the<br />

provisions <strong>in</strong>cluded <strong>in</strong> the new rules. Furthermore, the <strong>in</strong>dividuals that do not fall with<strong>in</strong><br />

the transitional provisions, are eligible to cont<strong>in</strong>ue claim<strong>in</strong>g the exemption based on the<br />

previous rules for the rema<strong>in</strong><strong>in</strong>g years, without be<strong>in</strong>g affected by the new rules.


DOING BUSINESS C YPRUS<br />

79<br />

UNITED ARAB EMIRATES EDITION<br />

SUBMISSION OF TAX RETURNS<br />

The tax year is the calendar year. Tax on employment <strong>in</strong>come is withheld by the<br />

employer under the PAYE system and remitted to the tax authorities.<br />

Self-employed <strong>in</strong>dividuals pay tax through the provisional and self-assessment<br />

systems. Tax returns must be filed electronically by 31 st of July follow<strong>in</strong>g the tax year for<br />

employees, 30 th of September for self-employed persons who are not required to file<br />

audited/reviewed f<strong>in</strong>ancial statements and 31 st of March of the year follow<strong>in</strong>g the year<br />

under consideration (i.e. 15 months from the year-end) for self-employed persons whose<br />

returns are accompanied by audited/reviewed f<strong>in</strong>ancial statements. Sole proprietors with<br />

an annual turnover of more than €70,000 are obliged to prepare f<strong>in</strong>ancial statements<br />

that are either audited or are subject to a review by a statutory auditor (<strong>in</strong> case their<br />

net turnover does not exceed the amount of €200,000 and the total value of the assets<br />

without deduct<strong>in</strong>g liabilities does not exceed the amount of €500,000).<br />

Limassol Seafront<br />

VALUE ADDED TAX (VAT)<br />

Imposition of Value Added Tax (VAT) is imposed on the supply of all goods and services<br />

<strong>in</strong> <strong>Cyprus</strong>, on the acquisition of goods from other Member States and on the importation<br />

of goods from third countries. The standard rate of 19% applies to the supplies of all<br />

goods and services <strong>in</strong> <strong>Cyprus</strong> which are not subject to the zero rate, the reduced rates<br />

(5% and 9%) or are not exempt. <strong>Cyprus</strong> constitutes an attractive EU VAT jurisdiction<br />

apply<strong>in</strong>g several options permissible by the EU Directive among others a flexible VAT<br />

Group<strong>in</strong>g. As long as the pre-requisite l<strong>in</strong>ks are satisfied, and governmental revenues<br />

are not put <strong>in</strong>to jeopardy, related entities can form a VAT group disregard<strong>in</strong>g <strong>in</strong>tragroup<br />

transactions and hav<strong>in</strong>g a representative member submitt<strong>in</strong>g a s<strong>in</strong>gle VAT<br />

return. Even such entities not <strong>in</strong>corporated <strong>in</strong> <strong>Cyprus</strong> can form a VAT Group <strong>in</strong> case<br />

they are tax resident or possess<strong>in</strong>g an establishment <strong>in</strong> <strong>Cyprus</strong>.<br />

SPECIAL CONTRIBUTION FOR DEFENCE<br />

Special contribution for defence (SDC) is imposed on the dividend, <strong>in</strong>terest and rental<br />

<strong>in</strong>come earned by Cypriot tax resident and domiciled <strong>in</strong>dividuals. Non-domiciled<br />

Cypriot tax residents are exempt from SDC.


DOING BUSINESS C YPRUS<br />

80<br />

UNITED ARAB EMIRATES EDITION<br />

KEY FEATURES OF THE CYPRUS TAX SYSTEM<br />

Simple, transparent and EU harmonised tax system<br />

follow<strong>in</strong>g recommended OECD practices.<br />

Enjoys the tax benefits of EU Directives (Parent – Subsidiary Directive,<br />

Merger Directive and Interest and Royalties Directive).<br />

Extensive Tax Treaty network with 67 countries.<br />

A corporate <strong>in</strong>come tax rate of 12.5%, one of the lowest with<strong>in</strong> the<br />

EU with possibility to enjoy a much lower effective tax rate.<br />

Availability of a Notional Interest Deduction for companies<br />

receiv<strong>in</strong>g new equity fund<strong>in</strong>g. The tax deduction can reach up to<br />

80% of the taxable <strong>in</strong>come generated by the new equity.<br />

IP Box regime based on the nexus approach which allows 80% deemed<br />

deduction on qualify<strong>in</strong>g profits from the bus<strong>in</strong>ess use of qualify<strong>in</strong>g IP.<br />

Increased deduction of 20% on the actual expenditure <strong>in</strong>curred for scientific<br />

research as well as research and development, subject to conditions.<br />

Attractive Tonnage Tax (TT) regime for ship owners, managers and charterers.<br />

Attractive tax jurisdiction for funds and attractive tax regime for fund managers.<br />

Capital ga<strong>in</strong>s are exempt from tax (except for capital ga<strong>in</strong>s aris<strong>in</strong>g<br />

from the disposal of immovable property located <strong>in</strong> <strong>Cyprus</strong>).<br />

Profits of a foreign Permanent Establishment exempt from tax.<br />

Ga<strong>in</strong>s from trad<strong>in</strong>g <strong>in</strong> securities (shares, bonds and certa<strong>in</strong><br />

other f<strong>in</strong>ancial <strong>in</strong>struments) are exempt from tax.<br />

Unilateral credit relief for foreign taxes.<br />

No withhold<strong>in</strong>g tax on dividend, <strong>in</strong>terest or royalty payments<br />

(for use of royalties outside of <strong>Cyprus</strong>) made abroad.<br />

No taxes on entry and on qualify<strong>in</strong>g reorganisations.<br />

Carry forward of tax losses for five years.<br />

Tax <strong>in</strong>centives for expatriate employees tak<strong>in</strong>g up<br />

employment <strong>in</strong> <strong>Cyprus</strong> (20%/50% exemption).<br />

Dividend <strong>in</strong>come and <strong>in</strong>terest <strong>in</strong>come are exempt from SDC for<br />

non-domiciled <strong>in</strong>dividuals tak<strong>in</strong>g up tax residency <strong>in</strong> <strong>Cyprus</strong>.<br />

Possibility to obta<strong>in</strong> <strong>Cyprus</strong> tax residency by spend<strong>in</strong>g<br />

only 60-days <strong>in</strong> <strong>Cyprus</strong> (subject to conditions).<br />

No <strong>in</strong>heritance tax.<br />

No immovable property tax.


DOING BUSINESS C YPRUS<br />

81<br />

UNITED ARAB EMIRATES EDITION<br />

WHO’S<br />

WHO<br />

CYPRUS BUSINESS DIRECTORY<br />

The def<strong>in</strong>itive guide<br />

to <strong>Cyprus</strong>’ lead<strong>in</strong>g<br />

companies, executives<br />

and professional advisers.


DOING BUSINESS C YPRUS<br />

82<br />

UNITED ARAB EMIRATES EDITION<br />

ACCOUNTING & AUDITING<br />

A. Zemenides & Co Ltd..................................................................................................................................... 85<br />

Baker Tilly South East Europe...................................................................................................................... 85<br />

Deloitte <strong>Cyprus</strong>.................................................................................................................................................... 85<br />

Demetriou & Associates <strong>Bus<strong>in</strong>ess</strong> Advisers Ltd (DBA).................................................................... 85<br />

Joannides + Co Ltd..............................................................................................................................................86<br />

KPMG........................................................................................................................................................................86<br />

PwC <strong>Cyprus</strong>............................................................................................................................................................86<br />

ServPro Accountants & Consultants........................................................................................................86<br />

ASSOCIATIONS<br />

Association of <strong>Cyprus</strong> Banks........................................................................................................................ 87<br />

<strong>Cyprus</strong> Cannabis Association (CYCA)....................................................................................................... 87<br />

<strong>Cyprus</strong> Chamber of Commerce and Industry..................................................................................... 87<br />

<strong>Cyprus</strong> Fiduciary Association...................................................................................................................... 87<br />

<strong>Cyprus</strong> Healthcare Tourism (CHT).............................................................................................................88<br />

<strong>Cyprus</strong> Hotel Association...............................................................................................................................88<br />

<strong>Cyprus</strong> International <strong>Bus<strong>in</strong>ess</strong> Association (CIBA)..........................................................................88<br />

<strong>Cyprus</strong> Investment Funds Association (CIFA).....................................................................................88<br />

<strong>Cyprus</strong> Shipp<strong>in</strong>g Chamber............................................................................................................................89<br />

<strong>Cyprus</strong> Union of Shipowners (CUS)..........................................................................................................89<br />

Insurance Association of <strong>Cyprus</strong>...............................................................................................................89<br />

Society of Trust and Estate Practitioners (STEP) ...............................................................................89<br />

The <strong>Cyprus</strong> Employers & Industrialists Federation (OEB)............................................................90<br />

The <strong>Cyprus</strong> Tech Association.......................................................................................................................90<br />

The Institute of Certified Public Accountants of <strong>Cyprus</strong> (ICPAC)..............................................90<br />

BANKING<br />

Bank of <strong>Cyprus</strong> PLC............................................................................................................................................90<br />

cdbbank (The <strong>Cyprus</strong> Development Bank Public Company Ltd).................................................91<br />

Eurobank <strong>Cyprus</strong> Ltd.........................................................................................................................................91<br />

Societe Generale Bank – <strong>Cyprus</strong>.................................................................................................................91<br />

CONSULTING<br />

e-CNHC – E-C Natural Hydrocarbons Company Ltd........................................................................91<br />

PIVOT Consultants (<strong>Cyprus</strong>) Limited........................................................................................................ 92


DOING BUSINESS C YPRUS<br />

83<br />

UNITED ARAB EMIRATES EDITION<br />

CORPORATE SERVICES<br />

Alter Domus (<strong>Cyprus</strong>) Ltd............................................................................................................................... 92<br />

Andersen................................................................................................................................................................. 92<br />

Aspen Trust Group............................................................................................................................................. 92<br />

ATG Corporate Services................................................................................................................................... 93<br />

Executive <strong>Bus<strong>in</strong>ess</strong> Constultants Ltd....................................................................................................... 93<br />

GFSC Global........................................................................................................................................................... 93<br />

KENDRIS (<strong>Cyprus</strong>) Limited............................................................................................................................ 93<br />

Pagecorp Group................................................................................................................................................... 94<br />

Sovereign Group – <strong>Cyprus</strong>............................................................................................................................. 94<br />

Trident Trust Company (<strong>Cyprus</strong>) Limited.............................................................................................. 94<br />

Vistra (<strong>Cyprus</strong>) Ltd.............................................................................................................................................. 94<br />

ECONOMIC ANALYSIS<br />

Sapienta Economics Ltd.................................................................................................................................. 95<br />

ENERGY<br />

<strong>Cyprus</strong> Hydrocarbons Company (CHC)................................................................................................... 95<br />

EXECUTIVE EDUCATION<br />

European Institute of Management and F<strong>in</strong>ance (EIMF).............................................................. 95<br />

FINANCIAL ADVISORY<br />

MAP S.Platis Group............................................................................................................................................ 95<br />

FUND ADMINISTRATION<br />

ATG Fund Services............................................................................................................................................. 96<br />

FUND MANAGEMENT<br />

Inveqo Fund Management Ltd..................................................................................................................... 96<br />

IXI Investments................................................................................................................................................... 96<br />

Leon MFO Investments Ltd............................................................................................................................ 96<br />

Wealth Fund Services Ltd................................................................................................................................97<br />

INVESTMENT PROMOTION<br />

Invest <strong>Cyprus</strong>.........................................................................................................................................................97


DOING BUSINESS C YPRUS<br />

84<br />

UNITED ARAB EMIRATES EDITION<br />

INVESTMENT SERVICES<br />

W<strong>in</strong>dsor Brokers Ltd..........................................................................................................................................97<br />

LAW FIRMS<br />

A.G. Paphitis & Co LLC........................................................................................................................................97<br />

Agni Livera LLC....................................................................................................................................................98<br />

Andreas Th.Sofokleous LLC...........................................................................................................................98<br />

Antonis Paschalides & Co LLC......................................................................................................................98<br />

Areti Charidemou & Associates LLC.........................................................................................................98<br />

E. Tzioni & Associates LLC.............................................................................................................................. 99<br />

Elias Neocleous & Co LLC................................................................................................................................ 99<br />

George Z. Georgiou & Associates LLC...................................................................................................... 99<br />

L Papaphilippou & Co LLC............................................................................................................................... 99<br />

N. Xenofontos LLC Law Firm.......................................................................................................................100<br />

Patrikios Pavlou & Associates LLC...........................................................................................................100<br />

Pourgoura & Aspri LLC...................................................................................................................................100<br />

Stelios Americanos & Co LLC......................................................................................................................100<br />

NON PROFIT<br />

<strong>Cyprus</strong> Seeds........................................................................................................................................................101<br />

REAL ESTATE<br />

Cybarco Development Ltd.............................................................................................................................101<br />

Korant<strong>in</strong>a Homes..............................................................................................................................................101<br />

Pafilia Property Developers Ltd..................................................................................................................101<br />

Quality Group..................................................................................................................................................... 102<br />

Trilogy Limassol Seafront ........................................................................................................................... 102<br />

RECRUITMENT<br />

CareerF<strong>in</strong>ders Recruitment Services Limited.................................................................................. 102<br />

GRS Recruitment ............................................................................................................................................. 102<br />

RESEARCH INSTITUTION<br />

The <strong>Cyprus</strong> Institute .......................................................................................................................................103<br />

WEB DEVELOPMENT<br />

Ideaseven Digital..............................................................................................................................................103


DOING BUSINESS C YPRUS<br />

85<br />

UNITED ARAB EMIRATES EDITION<br />

ACCOUNTING & AUDITING<br />

AFXENTIS ZEMENIDES<br />

MANAGING DIRECTOR<br />

A. ZEMENIDES & CO LTD<br />

A.ZEMENIDES & CO LTD is a boutique firm of auditors, accountants,<br />

tax consultants and bus<strong>in</strong>ess advisors based <strong>in</strong> Limassol, <strong>Cyprus</strong>.<br />

We aim to provide excellent service <strong>in</strong> a professional manner and<br />

of the highest standards to our clients, both local and <strong>in</strong>ternational.<br />

We aim to act as one-stop-shop for our clients provid<strong>in</strong>g them a<br />

full range of services. The boutique nature of our firm ensures that<br />

the clients enjoy personalized attention. Through our participation<br />

<strong>in</strong> the <strong>in</strong>ternational network of associates IR GLOBAL we provide<br />

solutions to corporate and <strong>in</strong>dividual clients worldwide. Our<br />

objective is to assist our clients to achieve their goals.<br />

Omirou Street 61, Joanna Court,<br />

3rd Floor, 3091 Limassol - <strong>Cyprus</strong><br />

Contact: Afxentis Zemenides<br />

- Manag<strong>in</strong>g Director<br />

(+357) 25 745 800<br />

azemenides@zemenides.com.cy<br />

www.zemenides.com.cy<br />

ACCOUNTING & AUDITING<br />

MARIOS A. KLITOU<br />

CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER<br />

BAKER TILLY SOUTH EAST EUROPE<br />

Baker Tilly South East Europe is a full-service account<strong>in</strong>g<br />

and advisory firm, that offers <strong>in</strong>dustry specialised services<br />

<strong>in</strong> assurance, tax and advisory. Every day, more than 500<br />

professionals located <strong>in</strong> 16 offices throughout South East Europe<br />

(<strong>Cyprus</strong>, Greece, Romania, Bulgaria and Moldova) share their<br />

expertise to accelerate your bus<strong>in</strong>ess growth, by operat<strong>in</strong>g under a<br />

unified structure, directed by a s<strong>in</strong>gle, central management team<br />

of 44 directors. At Baker Tilly, we are ready now, for tomorrow’s<br />

challenges. We believe <strong>in</strong> the power of great relationships, by<br />

lead<strong>in</strong>g and listen<strong>in</strong>g to great conversations. Baker Tilly South East<br />

Europe is an <strong>in</strong>dependent member of Baker Tilly International, one<br />

of the world’s lead<strong>in</strong>g networks, unit<strong>in</strong>g <strong>in</strong>dependent companies<br />

to provide top-quality professional services <strong>in</strong> both <strong>in</strong>ternational<br />

and regional markets.<br />

Corner C Hatzopoulou & 30<br />

Griva Digheni Avenue,<br />

1066 Nicosia, <strong>Cyprus</strong> P.O.Box<br />

27783, 2433 Nicosia - <strong>Cyprus</strong><br />

Contact: Marios A. Klitou -<br />

Chief Executive Officer<br />

(+357) 22 458 500<br />

<strong>in</strong>fo@bakertilly.com.cy<br />

www.bakertilly.com.cy<br />

ACCOUNTING & AUDITING<br />

PIERIS MARKOU<br />

CEO, DELOITTE CYPRUS<br />

DELOITTE CYPRUS<br />

Deloitte Limited is among the lead<strong>in</strong>g professional services firms<br />

<strong>in</strong> <strong>Cyprus</strong>, provid<strong>in</strong>g audit & assurance, consult<strong>in</strong>g, f<strong>in</strong>ancial<br />

advisory, risk advisory, tax and related services, as well as a<br />

complete range of services to <strong>in</strong>ternational bus<strong>in</strong>ess, through<br />

over 750 people <strong>in</strong> Nicosia and Limassol. Deloitte Limited, is the<br />

sub-licensed affiliate for <strong>Cyprus</strong> of Deloitte NSE LLP. As part<br />

of the Deloitte global network, with more than 345,000 people<br />

<strong>in</strong> over 150 countries and territories, Deloitte Limited has the<br />

advantage of global shar<strong>in</strong>g of knowledge with local adaptation<br />

and personal approach, built on the solid foundations of over 60<br />

years of successful operations on the island.<br />

24 Spyrou Kyprianou Avenue,<br />

CY 1075, Nicosia - <strong>Cyprus</strong><br />

Contact: Michelle Karaolides -<br />

Head of Market<strong>in</strong>g & Communications<br />

(+357) 22 360 300<br />

<strong>in</strong>fonicosia@deloitte.com<br />

www.deloitte.com/cy<br />

ACCOUNTING & AUDITING<br />

ELIAS DEMETRIOU<br />

DIRECTOR<br />

DEMETRIOU & ASSOCIATES BUSINESS ADVISERS LTD (DBA)<br />

dba was established <strong>in</strong> 2017 by a team with more than 30 years<br />

experience <strong>in</strong> the professional f<strong>in</strong>ancial services <strong>in</strong>dustry.<br />

The company provides an extensive range of services on most<br />

f<strong>in</strong>ancial matters <strong>in</strong>clud<strong>in</strong>g audit<strong>in</strong>g, account<strong>in</strong>g, taxation,<br />

f<strong>in</strong>ancial and bus<strong>in</strong>ess consult<strong>in</strong>g. We also specialise <strong>in</strong> the<br />

formation and management of companies, liquidation and<br />

dissolution of companies, the creation and adm<strong>in</strong>istration<br />

of trusts and estates, IT consult<strong>in</strong>g, and much more. dba<br />

comprises of 3 directors and more than 20 members of staff.<br />

Our commitment is to provide exceptional quality services to<br />

our clients, tailored to all their needs. dba is passionate about<br />

ideas, <strong>in</strong>novation, and always adopts a forward-look<strong>in</strong>g proactive<br />

approach. The firm is a member of DFK International, the<br />

number 6 Association <strong>in</strong> the world.<br />

1 Salam<strong>in</strong>os Avenue, 1045 Nicosia - <strong>Cyprus</strong><br />

Contact: Elias Demetriou – Director<br />

(+357) 22 799 900<br />

e.demetriou@dbacy.com<br />

www.dbacy.com


DOING BUSINESS C YPRUS<br />

86<br />

UNITED ARAB EMIRATES EDITION<br />

ACCOUNTING & AUDITING<br />

DAVINIA JOANNIDOU<br />

DIRECTOR<br />

JOANNIDES + CO LTD<br />

Joannides + Co. Ltd is a lead<strong>in</strong>g firm of accountants and<br />

management consultants established <strong>in</strong> <strong>Cyprus</strong> for over 40<br />

years provid<strong>in</strong>g audit and assurance, taxation, bus<strong>in</strong>ess support<br />

services and management consult<strong>in</strong>g to <strong>in</strong>ternational companies<br />

and private clients. The firm has offices <strong>in</strong> Nicosia, Limassol<br />

and Larnaca offer<strong>in</strong>g its services with the utmost <strong>in</strong>tegrity,<br />

<strong>in</strong>dependence and objectivity with the aim to add significant<br />

value to its clients’ bus<strong>in</strong>ess performance. Joannides + Co. Ltd<br />

is a member of AGN International Ltd, a worldwide association<br />

of <strong>in</strong>dependent account<strong>in</strong>g and consult<strong>in</strong>g firms operat<strong>in</strong>g <strong>in</strong><br />

85 countries, is an approved tra<strong>in</strong><strong>in</strong>g centre of the professional<br />

account<strong>in</strong>g <strong>in</strong>stitutes ICAEW and ACCA and <strong>in</strong> 2010 was awarded<br />

the quality award certification from the Institute of Certified<br />

Public Accountants of <strong>Cyprus</strong>.<br />

13, Agiou Prokopiou Str. 2406<br />

Egkomi, Nicosia - <strong>Cyprus</strong><br />

P.O.Box 25411, Nicosia 1309 - <strong>Cyprus</strong><br />

Contact: Dav<strong>in</strong>ia Joannidou - Director<br />

(+357) 22 556 556<br />

cy@joannides.com.cy<br />

www.joannides.com.cy<br />

ACCOUNTING & AUDITING<br />

CHRISTOS V. VASILIOU<br />

MANAGING DIRECTOR<br />

KPMG<br />

KPMG is a global organisation of <strong>in</strong>dependent professional services<br />

firms provid<strong>in</strong>g Audit, Tax and Advisory services. KPMG operates<br />

<strong>in</strong> 144 countries and territories and has approximately 236.000<br />

people work<strong>in</strong>g <strong>in</strong> member firms around the world. KPMG has<br />

been operat<strong>in</strong>g <strong>in</strong> <strong>Cyprus</strong> s<strong>in</strong>ce 1948 and currently employs more<br />

than 850 professionals work<strong>in</strong>g from 6 offices across the island<br />

(Nicosia, Limassol, Larnaka, Paralimni, Pafos, Polis Chrysochous).<br />

By utilis<strong>in</strong>g the whole spectrum of KPMG International services<br />

and the deep knowledge <strong>in</strong> all major <strong>in</strong>dustries, KPMG provides its<br />

clients with solutions which address their unique characteristics.<br />

Clients look to KPMG for a consistent standard of service based<br />

on high-order professional capabilities, <strong>in</strong>dustry <strong>in</strong>sight, local<br />

knowledge and expertise.<br />

14 Esperidon Street, 1087, Nicosia - <strong>Cyprus</strong><br />

Contact: Maria A. Papacosta -<br />

Board Member, Head of Clients and Markets<br />

(+357) 22 209 000<br />

maria.papacosta@kpmg.com.cy<br />

www.kpmg.com.cy<br />

ACCOUNTING & AUDITING<br />

PHILIPPOS SOSEILOS<br />

CEO, PwC CYPRUS<br />

PWC CYPRUS<br />

In a world that is constantly evolv<strong>in</strong>g, our aim at PwC <strong>Cyprus</strong> is to<br />

f<strong>in</strong>d the right solutions to complex problems. We focus on quality<br />

and build strong relationships based on trust, creat<strong>in</strong>g value for<br />

our clients, stakeholders and society. Based on PwC’s new global<br />

strategy, “The New Equation”, we look at problems from different<br />

angles and present <strong>in</strong>novative solutions that make a difference<br />

and lead to susta<strong>in</strong>ed outcomes. More than 1,000 people <strong>in</strong> <strong>Cyprus</strong><br />

jo<strong>in</strong> forces with 327,000 professionals of our global network <strong>in</strong><br />

155 countries and create an experienced team that comb<strong>in</strong>es<br />

<strong>in</strong>telligent approaches, experience and technological <strong>in</strong>novation.<br />

www.pwc.com.cy<br />

PwC Central, 43 Demostheni Severi Avenue,<br />

CY-1080 Nicosia - <strong>Cyprus</strong><br />

Contact: Konstant<strong>in</strong>a Logotheti -<br />

Director, Market<strong>in</strong>g & Communications<br />

(+357) 22 555 000<br />

konstant<strong>in</strong>a.logotheti@pwc.com<br />

www.pwc.com.cy<br />

ACCOUNTING & AUDITING<br />

PETROS THEODOTOU<br />

FCCA<br />

FOUNDER & CEO<br />

SERVPRO ACCOUNTANTS & CONSULTANTS<br />

ServPRO is a team of accountants, auditors, lawyers and<br />

consultants. A practic<strong>in</strong>g member of ICPAC and ACCA, a National<br />

Member of Auditaxes International, an ACCA Approved Employer,<br />

an ISO 9001:2015 and an ISO 27001:2013 Certified Company.<br />

Our areas of expertise are Account<strong>in</strong>g & F<strong>in</strong>ance, Advisory &<br />

Consult<strong>in</strong>g, Audit & Assurance, Corporate & Legal, Economic<br />

Substance and Taxation. We have a stellar track record <strong>in</strong><br />

deliver<strong>in</strong>g practical solutions to corporate and <strong>in</strong>dividual clients<br />

with a spherical, solution-driven and detail-oriented approach,<br />

while demonstrat<strong>in</strong>g an aptitude of professionalism, <strong>in</strong>tegrity and<br />

commercial acumen. Dur<strong>in</strong>g the remarkable year of 2021, we have<br />

celebrated 10 years of deliver<strong>in</strong>g an impeccable quality of services<br />

and practical solutions across a diversified range of <strong>in</strong>dustries to a<br />

grow<strong>in</strong>g mult<strong>in</strong>ational clientele.<br />

Accountants & Consultants<br />

1 K<strong>in</strong>yra Street, K<strong>in</strong>yras Tower,<br />

3rd Floor, 1102 Nicosia - <strong>Cyprus</strong><br />

Contact: Petros Theodotou FCCA -<br />

Founder & CEO<br />

(+357) 22 021 100<br />

<strong>in</strong>fo@servpro.com.cy<br />

www.servpro.com.cy


DOING BUSINESS C YPRUS<br />

87<br />

UNITED ARAB EMIRATES EDITION<br />

ASSOCIATION<br />

DR. MICHAEL KAMMAS<br />

DIRECTOR GENERAL<br />

ASSOCIATION OF CYPRUS BANKS<br />

Through its representation of ten member banks that hold more<br />

than 95% market share, the Association of <strong>Cyprus</strong> Banks (ACB)<br />

is the voice of the local bank<strong>in</strong>g system. Its primary target is to<br />

promote best practices for the <strong>in</strong>terest of the bank<strong>in</strong>g sector<br />

and the local economy. The ACB is a non-profit organization<br />

through which common positions are formulated and promoted<br />

on bank<strong>in</strong>g and f<strong>in</strong>ancial issues when local legislative and<br />

governmental policies are determ<strong>in</strong>ed. Through its more than<br />

53 years of operations, the ACB has ga<strong>in</strong>ed the reputation of a<br />

prudent, reliable and consistent partner for various policy makers,<br />

organizations, media, <strong>in</strong>stitutions and the local society.<br />

15 Demetriou Karatasou Str, Office 401,<br />

P.O. Box 16113, 2086 Nicosia - <strong>Cyprus</strong><br />

Contact: Dr. Michael Kammas<br />

- Director General<br />

(+357) 22 664 293<br />

<strong>in</strong>fo@acb.com.cy<br />

www.acb.com.cy<br />

ASSOCIATION<br />

ANDRIA ANDREOU<br />

PRESIDENT<br />

CYPRUS CANNABIS ASSOCIATION (CYCA)<br />

CYCA was formed <strong>in</strong> October 2019 under the auspices of <strong>Cyprus</strong><br />

Chamber of Commerce & Industry. We are lead<strong>in</strong>g the collective of<br />

<strong>in</strong>dividuals and bus<strong>in</strong>esses that will build the legal Cannabis Ecosystem<br />

<strong>in</strong> <strong>Cyprus</strong>, and advanc<strong>in</strong>g the <strong>in</strong>terests of a responsible,<br />

compliant, transparent and high-quality <strong>in</strong>dustry. As global<br />

recognition of the benefits of legal Cannabis <strong>in</strong>creases with<br />

governments around the world steadily mov<strong>in</strong>g to full legalization,<br />

there is a burgeon<strong>in</strong>g need for high-quality products with known<br />

components; cultivated at large scale for consistent, reliable supply<br />

to users. <strong>Cyprus</strong> is primely positioned as an attractive center of<br />

excellence for production; research; genetics, and <strong>in</strong>tellectual<br />

property from which the legal Cannabis <strong>in</strong>dustry can flourish.<br />

38 Grivas Dhigenis Ave. & 3 Deligiogis<br />

1066 Nicosia - <strong>Cyprus</strong><br />

Contact: Andria Andreou - President<br />

(+357) 99 672 366<br />

a.andreou@cy-ca.org<br />

www.cy-ca.org<br />

ASSOCIATION<br />

CHRISTODOULOS E.<br />

ANGASTINIOTIS<br />

PRESIDENT<br />

CYPRUS CHAMBER OF COMMERCE AND INDUSTRY<br />

The <strong>Cyprus</strong> Chamber of Commerce and Industry (CCCI) membership<br />

exceeds 10.000 enterprises represent<strong>in</strong>g over 95% of the local<br />

bus<strong>in</strong>ess community. 160 Professional Associations are affiliated<br />

to the CCCI <strong>in</strong>clud<strong>in</strong>g 41 Bilateral Associations. Its wide range of<br />

services <strong>in</strong>clude advisory, provision of bus<strong>in</strong>ess <strong>in</strong>formation,<br />

foreign trade exhibitions, trade missions & bus<strong>in</strong>ess fora abroad,<br />

bus<strong>in</strong>ess tra<strong>in</strong><strong>in</strong>g courses & sem<strong>in</strong>ars, advice on European Union<br />

issues, labour relations matters, issue of Certificates of Orig<strong>in</strong> and<br />

ATA-CARNETS and participation <strong>in</strong> EU programmes. CCCI is a full<br />

member of 12 International organizations <strong>in</strong>clud<strong>in</strong>g Eurochambers,<br />

the International Chamber of Commerce, SME United,<br />

Eurocommerce, GS1 and many other <strong>in</strong>ternational organisations.<br />

Follow us on twitter @ccci_cyprus.<br />

38, Grivas Digenis Ave. &<br />

3 Deligiorgis Str. Chamber Build<strong>in</strong>g - <strong>Cyprus</strong><br />

Contact: Marios Tsiakkis - Secretary General<br />

(+357) 22 660 066<br />

secgen@ccci.org.cy<br />

www.ccci.org.cy<br />

ASSOCIATION<br />

CHRIS KOUTOUROUSSIS<br />

PRESIDENT<br />

CYPRUS FIDUCIARY ASSOCIATION<br />

The <strong>Cyprus</strong> Fiduciary Association (CYFA), established <strong>in</strong> 2011,<br />

is the representative body of regulated Adm<strong>in</strong>istrative Service<br />

Providers (ASP’s) <strong>in</strong> <strong>Cyprus</strong>. With a vision to assist <strong>in</strong> form<strong>in</strong>g a<br />

solid <strong>in</strong>ternational bus<strong>in</strong>ess sector <strong>in</strong> <strong>Cyprus</strong> operat<strong>in</strong>g on high<br />

professional standards, ethics and <strong>in</strong>tegrity, the Association aims<br />

to serve <strong>in</strong>dustry providers by promot<strong>in</strong>g their <strong>in</strong>terests, rais<strong>in</strong>g<br />

sector awareness, support<strong>in</strong>g their operations, contribut<strong>in</strong>g to<br />

new legislations and deliver<strong>in</strong>g valuable tra<strong>in</strong><strong>in</strong>g to professionals.<br />

The Association’s commitment to its purpose has established it<br />

among the most reputable and recognised organisations with<strong>in</strong><br />

the country, before public and regulatory authorities, other<br />

associations, as well as the bus<strong>in</strong>ess community <strong>in</strong> <strong>Cyprus</strong> and<br />

overseas.<br />

6, Emmanuel Roide Street, Fourth floor,<br />

Office 402, 1095, Nicosia - <strong>Cyprus</strong><br />

(+357) 22 256 263<br />

<strong>in</strong>fo@cyfa.org.cy<br />

www.cyfa.org.cy


DOING BUSINESS C YPRUS<br />

88<br />

UNITED ARAB EMIRATES EDITION<br />

ASSOCIATION<br />

YIOTA SKITINI-<br />

FLOURENTZOU<br />

PRESIDENT<br />

CYPRUS HEALTHCARE TOURISM (CHT)<br />

The <strong>Cyprus</strong> Healthcare Tourism (CHT) is a non-profit organization<br />

that was founded <strong>in</strong> November 2006 after an <strong>in</strong>itiative taken by the<br />

<strong>Cyprus</strong> Chamber of Commerce and Industry (CCCI) aim<strong>in</strong>g to develop<br />

and promote <strong>Cyprus</strong> as a high quality Health Tourism dest<strong>in</strong>ation. The<br />

CHΤ currently has more than 80 members who are actively <strong>in</strong>volved<br />

<strong>in</strong> the <strong>Cyprus</strong> Health Tourism Industry. These vary from state-of-theart<br />

hospitals and cl<strong>in</strong>ics to specialized travel agencies, wellness and<br />

rehabilitation centres as well as consult<strong>in</strong>g firms. Most of the largest<br />

and best equipped hospitals are members of the CHΤ and they are all<br />

licensed by the <strong>Cyprus</strong> Government and comply with EU regulations.<br />

Some of them have moved a step ahead towards ga<strong>in</strong><strong>in</strong>g <strong>in</strong>ternational<br />

accreditations.<br />

38 Grivas Dighenis & 3 Deligiorgis<br />

Street, Nicosia - <strong>Cyprus</strong><br />

T: (+357) 22 889 744<br />

Contact: Polis Peratikos - Executive Secretary<br />

E: cyprushealth@ccci.org.cy<br />

W: www.cyhealthservices.com<br />

ASSOCIATION<br />

HARIS LOIZIDES<br />

PRESIDENT<br />

CYPRUS HOTEL ASSOCIATION<br />

The <strong>Cyprus</strong> Hotel Association is the Hoteliers National Trade<br />

Union. The history of its foundation goes back to the beg<strong>in</strong>n<strong>in</strong>g of<br />

the 1930s. Today the vast majority of all hotel establishments and<br />

other licensed tourist accommodation units, all over <strong>Cyprus</strong>, are<br />

members of the <strong>Cyprus</strong> Hotel Association. The most important<br />

aims of the Association are as follows: The protection and<br />

promotion of the <strong>in</strong>terests of the hoteliers as employers and as<br />

professionals, as well as of the <strong>in</strong>terests of <strong>Cyprus</strong> <strong>in</strong> general; The<br />

promotion and upgrad<strong>in</strong>g of the <strong>Cyprus</strong> tourism development; The<br />

upgrad<strong>in</strong>g and development of the hotel establishments <strong>in</strong> <strong>Cyprus</strong><br />

and the improvement of the professional level of the hoteliers; The<br />

solidarity between its members.<br />

Andreas Araouzos Str., No 12,<br />

Hesperides Build<strong>in</strong>g, 1076 Nicosia - <strong>Cyprus</strong><br />

Contact: Philokypros Roussounides<br />

- Director General<br />

(+357) 22 452 820<br />

cha@cyprushotelassociation.org<br />

www.cyprushotelassociation.org<br />

ASSOCIATION<br />

DOXIA NIKIA<br />

HADJIVASSILIOU<br />

PRESIDENT<br />

CYPRUS INTERNATIONAL BUSINESSES ASSOCIATION<br />

CIBA is a non-governmental, fully <strong>in</strong>dependent association,<br />

f<strong>in</strong>anced by membership fees only. Its activities and <strong>in</strong>itiatives are<br />

organised and carried out by its General Secretary and Executive<br />

Committee of (max.) 12 persons. CIBA represents and safeguards<br />

the <strong>in</strong>terests of the <strong>in</strong>ternational bus<strong>in</strong>esses, their shareholders,<br />

managers and staff. The authorities recognize that CIBA<br />

represents the whole of the <strong>in</strong>ternational bus<strong>in</strong>ess community<br />

<strong>in</strong> <strong>Cyprus</strong> and that it is <strong>in</strong>strumental <strong>in</strong> f<strong>in</strong>d<strong>in</strong>g compromises<br />

between the required EU-driven legislation and <strong>in</strong>ternational<br />

bus<strong>in</strong>ess requirements. CIBA annually awards the prestigious<br />

CIBA Excellence award to a member company that fulfils the<br />

specific criteria as set out by the Association.<br />

10 Pikionis Street, Highsight House<br />

3075 Limassol - <strong>Cyprus</strong><br />

Contact: Andreas Pishias - General Secretary<br />

(+357) 25 583 400<br />

ciba@ciba-cy.org<br />

www.ciba-cy.org<br />

ASSOCIATION<br />

ANDREAS YIASEMIDES<br />

PRESIDENT<br />

CYPRUS INVESTMENT FUNDS ASSOCIATION (CIFA)<br />

CIFA is the Association of professionals, bus<strong>in</strong>esses, and<br />

organizations <strong>in</strong>volved <strong>in</strong> the Investment Funds and Asset<br />

Management Sector <strong>in</strong> <strong>Cyprus</strong>. CIFA has nearly 400 members, legal<br />

and physical. The Mission of CIFA is to: Help its members capitalize<br />

on <strong>in</strong>dustry trends; Shape regulation; Enhance professionalism,<br />

<strong>in</strong>tegrity, and quality and Promote the <strong>Cyprus</strong> Investment Fund<br />

Industry. The Board is comprised of highly reputable <strong>in</strong>dustry<br />

professionals experienced <strong>in</strong> all aspects of the <strong>in</strong>dustry. CIFA is<br />

a full member of the European Funds and Asset Management<br />

Association and the International Investment Funds Association.<br />

The fund <strong>in</strong>dustry <strong>in</strong> <strong>Cyprus</strong> has been on a cont<strong>in</strong>uous <strong>in</strong>crease,<br />

with Assets under Management exceed<strong>in</strong>g €11 billion.<br />

Severis Build<strong>in</strong>g, 9 Makarios III Ave.,<br />

4th Floor, Lefkosia 1065 - <strong>Cyprus</strong><br />

Contact: Maria Panayiotou - Board Secretary<br />

(+357) 22 441 133<br />

<strong>in</strong>fo@cifacyprus.org<br />

www.cifacyprus.org


DOING BUSINESS C YPRUS<br />

89<br />

UNITED ARAB EMIRATES EDITION<br />

ASSOCIATION<br />

THOMAS A. KAZAKOS<br />

DIRECTOR GENERAL<br />

CYPRUS SHIPPING CHAMBER<br />

The <strong>Cyprus</strong> Shipp<strong>in</strong>g Chamber is the trade association of the<br />

Shipp<strong>in</strong>g Industry <strong>in</strong> <strong>Cyprus</strong>. The ma<strong>in</strong> purpose of the Chamber<br />

is to promote the <strong>in</strong>terests of <strong>Cyprus</strong> Shipp<strong>in</strong>g and to further<br />

the reputation of the <strong>Cyprus</strong> flag. The Chamber also acts as a<br />

lobby<strong>in</strong>g group for the promotion and safeguard of the legitimate<br />

<strong>in</strong>terests of its Member-companies, at national and <strong>in</strong>ternational<br />

level. On the local front, the Chamber co-operates very closely<br />

with the Government <strong>in</strong> all shipp<strong>in</strong>g related matters. Moreover,<br />

the Chamber operates as a rov<strong>in</strong>g ambassador of <strong>Cyprus</strong><br />

Shipp<strong>in</strong>g through its membership and active participation at<br />

the International Chamber of Shipp<strong>in</strong>g (ICS) and the European<br />

Community Shipowners’ Associations (ECSA).<br />

City Chambers, 6 Regas Fereos Str.<br />

P.O.Box 56607, 3309, Limassol - <strong>Cyprus</strong><br />

Contact: Thomas A. Kazakos<br />

– Director General<br />

(+357) 25 360 717<br />

csc@csc-cy.org<br />

www.csc-cy.org<br />

ASSOCIATION<br />

MICHAEL FILIPPOU<br />

CEO<br />

CYPRUS UNION OF SHIPOWNERS (CUS)<br />

<strong>Cyprus</strong> Union of Shipowners, as the major representative<br />

Organization of the <strong>Cyprus</strong> Flag vessels, is committed to the firm<br />

growth of our National Registry and the establishment of Limassol<br />

as a world-class Maritime Centre. The cooperation between<br />

our Union, the Shipp<strong>in</strong>g Deputy M<strong>in</strong>istry and the M<strong>in</strong>istry of<br />

F<strong>in</strong>ance resulted to an exceptional Framework that <strong>in</strong>duced<br />

prom<strong>in</strong>ent Shipp<strong>in</strong>g Companies, P&I Clubs and other Shipp<strong>in</strong>g<br />

related Service Providers to establish management offices <strong>in</strong><br />

<strong>Cyprus</strong>. Moreover, the solidification of the global reach of our<br />

Union and its <strong>in</strong>stitutional status has curved our participation <strong>in</strong><br />

IMO Committees, as Government Consultants, both mandatory<br />

and effective.<br />

17, Gordonos Str., Suite 301,<br />

3070 Limassol - <strong>Cyprus</strong><br />

Contact: Kater<strong>in</strong>a Michael - PR Manager<br />

(+357) 25 818 161<br />

cus@cus.com.cy<br />

www.cus.com.cy<br />

ASSOCIATION<br />

EVANGELOS<br />

ANASTASIADES<br />

CHAIRMAN<br />

INSURANCE ASSOCIATION OF CYPRUS<br />

The Insurance Association of <strong>Cyprus</strong> is the accredited and<br />

representative body of the Cypriot <strong>in</strong>surance <strong>in</strong>dustry, with 29<br />

member <strong>in</strong>surance companies operat<strong>in</strong>g <strong>in</strong> <strong>Cyprus</strong>, account<strong>in</strong>g<br />

for approximately 98% of total gross written premiums. As<br />

the lead<strong>in</strong>g and united voice of the <strong>Cyprus</strong> <strong>in</strong>surance market<br />

its mission is to promote the <strong>in</strong>dustry’s views and positions to<br />

policymakers and legislators. It is also particularly active with<br />

respect to work aim<strong>in</strong>g at the modernization of the sector, the<br />

cont<strong>in</strong>uous improvement of the level and quality of service to the<br />

public, the enhancement of consumers’ trust and confidence <strong>in</strong><br />

<strong>in</strong>surance products and their providers, and the strengthen<strong>in</strong>g of<br />

the <strong>in</strong>stitution of <strong>in</strong>surance.<br />

23, Zenon Sozos str., 1st floor<br />

1075 Nicosia - <strong>Cyprus</strong><br />

Contact: Andreas Athanasiades<br />

– Director General<br />

(+357) 22 452 990<br />

<strong>in</strong>fo@iac.org.cy<br />

www.iac.org.cy<br />

ASSOCIATION<br />

STELLA KAMMITSI<br />

STEP CYPRUS CHAIRWOMAN<br />

SOCIETY OF TRUST AND ESTATE PRACTITIONERS (STEP)<br />

STEP is the global professional association for practitioners who<br />

specialise <strong>in</strong> family <strong>in</strong>heritance and succession plann<strong>in</strong>g. STEP<br />

works to improve public understand<strong>in</strong>g of the issues families<br />

face <strong>in</strong> this area and promotes education and high professional<br />

standards among its members. STEP members help families<br />

plan for their futures, from draft<strong>in</strong>g a will to advis<strong>in</strong>g on issues<br />

concern<strong>in</strong>g <strong>in</strong>ternational families, protection of the vulnerable,<br />

family bus<strong>in</strong>esses and philanthropic giv<strong>in</strong>g. Today STEP has<br />

more than 20,000 members across 96 countries from a range of<br />

professions, <strong>in</strong>clud<strong>in</strong>g lawyers, accountants and other specialists.<br />

The <strong>Cyprus</strong> branch of STEP numbers over 185 experienced<br />

professionals from all over <strong>Cyprus</strong>, and is active <strong>in</strong> the spread of<br />

<strong>in</strong>dustry related knowledge, through regular conferences and<br />

presentations.<br />

P.O.Box 24789, 1303 Nicosia - <strong>Cyprus</strong><br />

itsi - STEP <strong>Cyprus</strong> Chairwoman<br />

(+357) 22 777 787<br />

Contact: Stella Kammitsi<br />

skammitsi@raza.com.cy<br />

www.step.org


DOING BUSINESS C YPRUS<br />

90<br />

UNITED ARAB EMIRATES EDITION<br />

ASSOCIATION<br />

ANTONIS ANTONIOU<br />

CHAIRMAN<br />

THE CYPRUS EMPLOYERS AND<br />

INDUSTRIALISTS FEDERATION (OEB)<br />

The <strong>Cyprus</strong> Employers and Industrialists Federation (OEB) was<br />

founded <strong>in</strong> 1960. Today, its members are active <strong>in</strong> all sectors of<br />

the economy and employ more than 60% of the private sector’s<br />

workforce. OEB is a pancyprian <strong>in</strong>dependent organisation<br />

compris<strong>in</strong>g of more than 100 of the ma<strong>in</strong> professional / sectoral<br />

Associations, as well as hundreds of companies from the<br />

Agricultural, Manufactur<strong>in</strong>g, Construction, Commercial and<br />

Services Sectors. In total, OEB has more than 10.000 Members<br />

/ Enterprises. OEB is established as a dynamic force <strong>in</strong> <strong>Cyprus</strong>’<br />

socio - economic development and welfare and acts as the ma<strong>in</strong><br />

advocate and representative of the bus<strong>in</strong>ess community.<br />

`<br />

years<br />

4, <strong>Cyprus</strong> Employers & Industrialists<br />

Federation Street, 2000 Nicosia /<br />

P.O.Box 21657, 1511 Nicosia - <strong>Cyprus</strong><br />

Contact: Michalis Antoniou - Director General<br />

(+357) 22 643 000<br />

<strong>in</strong>fo@oeb.org.cy<br />

www.oeb.org.cy<br />

ASSOCIATION<br />

KYRIAKOS KYRIAKOU<br />

PRESIDENT<br />

THE CYPRUS TECH ASSOCIATION<br />

The <strong>Cyprus</strong> Tech Association, a non-for-profit entity, aspires<br />

to provide a dynamic platform for all tech professionals and<br />

<strong>in</strong>ternational ICT companies established <strong>in</strong> <strong>Cyprus</strong> to discuss,<br />

promote, and address common challenges. It also provides a<br />

formal representation to all its members to forums, public and<br />

private entities, as well as offers direction on key strategic issues,<br />

<strong>in</strong>clud<strong>in</strong>g the economic importance of the ICT sector and policy<br />

advocacy.<br />

Makariou III Avenue,<br />

4th Floor, 1065 Nicosia - <strong>Cyprus</strong><br />

(+357) 22 441 133<br />

<strong>in</strong>fo@techcyprus.org.cy<br />

www.cyprustechassociation.org.cy<br />

ASSOCIATION<br />

KYRIAKOS IORDANOU<br />

GENERAL MANAGER<br />

THE INSTITUTE OF CERTIFIED PUBLIC<br />

ACCOUNTANTS OF CYPRUS (ICPAC)<br />

The Institute of Certified Public Accountants of <strong>Cyprus</strong> (ICPAC) is the<br />

competent authority for regulat<strong>in</strong>g the account<strong>in</strong>g profession and the<br />

sole recognised body of Auditors by the state <strong>in</strong> <strong>Cyprus</strong>. Established <strong>in</strong><br />

1961, ICPAC currently has more than 5.500 professional accountants<br />

as members and 3.500 students. ICPAC houses all professional<br />

accountants, supports and promotes the activities and <strong>in</strong>terests of the<br />

accountancy profession, safeguards the reputation of the profession<br />

and adherence to the Code of Ethics, as well as provides for the<br />

cont<strong>in</strong>uous professional development and updat<strong>in</strong>g of members. In<br />

addition, ICPAC is also a competent authority under the Anti-Money<br />

Launder<strong>in</strong>g law, the laws on the Regulation of Enterprises Provid<strong>in</strong>g<br />

Adm<strong>in</strong>istrative Services and the Insolvency Practitioners Law, as well<br />

as one of the primary stakeholders of the economy of the country.<br />

11 Byron Avenue, CY-1096, Nicosia - <strong>Cyprus</strong><br />

Contact: Kyriakos Iordanou<br />

– General Manager<br />

(+357) 22 870 030<br />

<strong>in</strong>fo@icpac.org.cy<br />

www.icpac.org.cy<br />

BANKING<br />

PANICOS NICOLAOU<br />

CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER<br />

BANK OF CYPRUS PLC<br />

Established <strong>in</strong> 1899, Bank of <strong>Cyprus</strong> is currently the lead<strong>in</strong>g<br />

bank<strong>in</strong>g and f<strong>in</strong>ancial services Group <strong>in</strong> <strong>Cyprus</strong>, operat<strong>in</strong>g 64<br />

branches <strong>in</strong> <strong>Cyprus</strong> and representative offices <strong>in</strong> Russia, Ukra<strong>in</strong>e<br />

an Ch<strong>in</strong>a. The Bank is the only f<strong>in</strong>ancial <strong>in</strong>stitution <strong>in</strong> the region<br />

that is concurrently regulated by three different corporate<br />

governance codes (UK Corporate Governance Code, <strong>Cyprus</strong><br />

Stock Exchange Corporate Governance Code and Central Bank<br />

of <strong>Cyprus</strong> Internal Governance Directive) and <strong>in</strong> four different<br />

European jurisdictions (<strong>Cyprus</strong>, Ireland, the UK and the EU).<br />

Through the Wealth Services Division we offer a wide range of<br />

<strong>in</strong>vestment products and specialized services, <strong>in</strong>clud<strong>in</strong>g Private<br />

Bank<strong>in</strong>g, Affluent Bank<strong>in</strong>g, Institutional Wealth & Custody,<br />

Brokerage & Asset Management as well as Investment Bank<strong>in</strong>g.<br />

51 Stass<strong>in</strong>ou, 2002 Strovolos,<br />

Nicosia - <strong>Cyprus</strong><br />

Contact: Emilios Tannousis -<br />

Manager Wealth Management<br />

(+357) 22 128 000<br />

<strong>in</strong>fo@bankofcyprus.com<br />

www.bankofcyprus.com


DOING BUSINESS C YPRUS<br />

91<br />

UNITED ARAB EMIRATES EDITION<br />

BANKING<br />

LOUCAS MARANGOS<br />

CEO<br />

CDBBANK (THE CYPRUS DEVELOPMENT<br />

BANK PUBLIC COMPANY LTD)<br />

Founded <strong>in</strong> 1963, cdbbank (<strong>Cyprus</strong> Development Bank) is today one<br />

of the country’s lead<strong>in</strong>g niche f<strong>in</strong>ancial <strong>in</strong>stitutions dedicated to<br />

satisfy<strong>in</strong>g the needs of domestic and <strong>in</strong>ternational clients. cdbbank<br />

offers a wide range of specialised f<strong>in</strong>ancial services and products,<br />

designed to accommodate the sophisticated requirements of its<br />

clientele which consists of corporate and <strong>in</strong>stitutional clients and<br />

high net worth <strong>in</strong>dividuals. The Bank’s vision is to be the reference<br />

Bank for bus<strong>in</strong>esspeople. Rely<strong>in</strong>g on its long-term experience and<br />

high level of expertise, cdbbank aspires to establish long-term<br />

relationships of trust with its clients, always deliver<strong>in</strong>g excellence<br />

and value.<br />

50 Arch. Makarios III Ave.,<br />

1065 Nicosia - <strong>Cyprus</strong><br />

Contact: Liza Philippou - Head, Network<br />

<strong>Bus<strong>in</strong>ess</strong> and Communication<br />

(+357) 22 846 500<br />

<strong>in</strong>fo@cdb.com.cy<br />

www.cdb.com.cy<br />

BANKING<br />

MICHALIS LOUIS<br />

CEO<br />

EUROBANK CYPRUS LTD<br />

S<strong>in</strong>ce the commencement of our operations <strong>in</strong> August 2007,<br />

we have achieved impressive growth rates, while consistently<br />

demonstrat<strong>in</strong>g healthy profitability, as well as, a strong capital<br />

base and liquidity position. We currently operate a network of eight<br />

Bank<strong>in</strong>g Centers across the island. With tailor-made products and<br />

services based on our clients’ needs, our bus<strong>in</strong>ess model sets us<br />

apart from our competitors, focus<strong>in</strong>g on the areas of Corporate<br />

Bank<strong>in</strong>g, Wealth Management, International <strong>Bus<strong>in</strong>ess</strong> Bank<strong>in</strong>g,<br />

Shipp<strong>in</strong>g, Global Markets and Affluent Bank<strong>in</strong>g.<br />

28, Spyrou Kyprianou Avenue,<br />

1075 Nicosia, P.O Box 27236,<br />

1643 Nicosia - <strong>Cyprus</strong><br />

(+357) 22 208 000<br />

<strong>in</strong>fo@eurobank.com.cy<br />

www.eurobank.com.cy<br />

BANKING<br />

KHALIL LETAYF<br />

CEO<br />

SOCIETE GENERALE BANK – CYPRUS<br />

Societe General Bank – <strong>Cyprus</strong> (SGBCy) draws on more than thirty<br />

years of accumulated experience <strong>in</strong> global bank<strong>in</strong>g <strong>in</strong> <strong>Cyprus</strong> as<br />

well as all the advantages of be<strong>in</strong>g part of an <strong>in</strong>ternational Group.<br />

The bank is present <strong>in</strong> the most important big cities <strong>in</strong> <strong>Cyprus</strong>:<br />

Nicosia, Limassol and Larnaca. SGBCy activities are organized<br />

around private bank<strong>in</strong>g, corporate bank<strong>in</strong>g and <strong>in</strong>ternational<br />

bus<strong>in</strong>esses. Bank<strong>in</strong>g services encompass a wide range of<br />

diversified, standard and tailor-made services that are conceived<br />

to answer the broadest range of customers’ needs. The bank<br />

pursues long-term relationships with its high net worth and<br />

corporate customers <strong>in</strong> order to meet fully their expectations.<br />

88 Dighenis Akritas & 36 Kypranoros<br />

Street, 1061 Nicosia - <strong>Cyprus</strong><br />

Contact: Hovik Arslanian -<br />

Assistant General Manager<br />

(+357) 80 007 777<br />

Hovik.Arslanian@sgbcy.com<br />

www.sgcyprus.com<br />

CONSULTING<br />

CHARLES ELLINAS<br />

CEO<br />

E-CNHC – E-C NATURAL HYDROCARBONS COMPANY LTD<br />

The company provides advisory, project management and<br />

consultancy services <strong>in</strong> the oil & gas and energy sectors and aims<br />

to contribute to the successful development of these Sectors for<br />

the future of <strong>Cyprus</strong>. The CEO has over 35-years <strong>in</strong>ternational<br />

experience <strong>in</strong> promot<strong>in</strong>g and develop<strong>in</strong>g oil & gas bus<strong>in</strong>ess and<br />

projects spann<strong>in</strong>g Europe, Asia and Africa. We can assist our clients<br />

<strong>in</strong> develop<strong>in</strong>g their bus<strong>in</strong>ess <strong>in</strong> <strong>Cyprus</strong>, evaluat<strong>in</strong>g opportunities<br />

and provid<strong>in</strong>g <strong>in</strong> depth professional advice and support.<br />

11 Tyrtaiou Street, 1087 Nicosia - <strong>Cyprus</strong><br />

Contact: Dr Charles Ell<strong>in</strong>as - CEO<br />

(+357) 97 705 060<br />

Charles.ell<strong>in</strong>as@yahoo.com<br />

www.e-cnhc.com


DOING BUSINESS C YPRUS<br />

92<br />

UNITED ARAB EMIRATES EDITION<br />

CONSULTING<br />

PANAYIOTIS GREGORIADES<br />

CEO & DIRECTOR<br />

PIVOT CONSULTANTS (CYPRUS) LIMITED<br />

We are a lead<strong>in</strong>g contributor of simplified, nimble <strong>in</strong>tegrated,<br />

customized solutions, Cross-border <strong>Bus<strong>in</strong>ess</strong> transactions and<br />

strategies <strong>in</strong> Asia and Europe. Deep well recognized local expertise<br />

with Global connectivity and vision form part of the solutions<br />

we deliver to entrepreneurs and Government clients look<strong>in</strong>g<br />

for substance <strong>in</strong> F<strong>in</strong>ancial services Industry, Capital markets,<br />

Taxation, Corporate advisory and Investment funds Industry. Our<br />

<strong>in</strong>sights assist you to be more proactive, effective and profitable<br />

especially <strong>in</strong> fast grow<strong>in</strong>g India, Greece and <strong>Cyprus</strong>. We are<br />

committed to provid<strong>in</strong>g best <strong>in</strong> class service, compliant and<br />

transparent solutions, with <strong>in</strong>creased focus on localization and<br />

develop<strong>in</strong>g local markets.<br />

<br />

<br />

PIVOT, member of TSSAG<br />

<br />

88 Markarios III Avenue<br />

1077 Nicosia - <strong>Cyprus</strong><br />

Contact: Panayiotis Gregoriades<br />

The - CEO & Director<br />

(+357) 22 731 002<br />

The Securities Services Advisory Group<br />

pgregoriades@pivotcyprus.com<br />

www.pivotcyprus.com<br />

<br />

<br />

CORPORATE SERVICES<br />

EVDOKIA STAVRAKI<br />

DIRECTOR<br />

ALTER DOMUS (CYPRUS) LTD<br />

Alter Domus is a fully <strong>in</strong>tegrated service provider dedicated to<br />

private equity, <strong>in</strong>frastructure, real asset, and debt capital markets<br />

sectors. Our 3,600 employees across more than 35 offices <strong>in</strong> 20<br />

countries provide end-to-end solutions to alternative <strong>in</strong>vestment<br />

managers, free<strong>in</strong>g up time for them to focus on their core activities<br />

of sourc<strong>in</strong>g capital and execut<strong>in</strong>g deals. Our local team <strong>in</strong> <strong>Cyprus</strong><br />

works diligently to help clients meet their grow<strong>in</strong>g regulatory<br />

obligations and keep up with <strong>in</strong>creas<strong>in</strong>g <strong>in</strong>vestor demands.<br />

Offer<strong>in</strong>g fund adm<strong>in</strong>istration, corporate services, transfer pric<strong>in</strong>g,<br />

and domiciliation services, you can rely on our on-the-ground<br />

expertise to help you take advantage of opportunities as they arise.<br />

11 Limassol Avenue, Galatariotis Build<strong>in</strong>g,<br />

2112, PO Box 27282, 1643 Nicosia - <strong>Cyprus</strong><br />

Contact: Evdokia Stavraki - Director<br />

(+357) 22 465 151<br />

Evdokia.Stavraki-Stephanou@<br />

alterdomus.com<br />

www.alterdomus.com<br />

CORPORATE SERVICES<br />

NAKIS KYPRIANOU<br />

MANAGING PARTNER<br />

ANDERSEN<br />

Andersen <strong>in</strong> <strong>Cyprus</strong> is the Cypriot member firm of Andersen<br />

Global®, an <strong>in</strong>ternational association of member firms comprised<br />

of tax and legal professionals worldwide. Andersen Cy is a<br />

regulated account<strong>in</strong>g firm based <strong>in</strong> Nicosia provid<strong>in</strong>g a wide range<br />

of professional services ma<strong>in</strong>ly to <strong>in</strong>ternational clients. The firm<br />

is a member of the Institute of Certified Public Accountants of<br />

<strong>Cyprus</strong> and the <strong>Cyprus</strong> VAT Association. With worldwide presence<br />

through the member firms and collaborat<strong>in</strong>g firms of Andersen<br />

Global, client service and solutions are coord<strong>in</strong>ated seamlessly<br />

between service l<strong>in</strong>es and locations to ensure clients receive best<strong>in</strong>‐class,<br />

comprehensive solutions.<br />

140 Athalassas Avenue,<br />

2024 Nicosia - <strong>Cyprus</strong><br />

Contact: Nakis Kyprianou<br />

- Manag<strong>in</strong>g Partner<br />

(+357) 22 456 333<br />

nakis.kyprianou@cy.Andersen.com<br />

cy.Andersen.com<br />

CORPORATE SERVICES<br />

MARINA ZEVEDEOU<br />

CO-FOUNDER AND CEO<br />

ASPEN TRUST GROUP<br />

The Aspen Trust Group is a lead<strong>in</strong>g corporate service and f<strong>in</strong>ancial<br />

plann<strong>in</strong>g provider; established <strong>in</strong> 1998 and licensed by ICPAC, our<br />

Group provides International Structur<strong>in</strong>g and Tax Management<br />

solutions to Corporates and High Net Worth Individuals. Specific<br />

services <strong>in</strong>clude entity setup and management, legal and<br />

adm<strong>in</strong>istration support, bank<strong>in</strong>g and tax compliance, f<strong>in</strong>ancial<br />

management and restructur<strong>in</strong>g, re-domiciliation, patent<br />

registration, residency and citizenship, cross- border mergers,<br />

family office services and headquarter<strong>in</strong>g. We build long term,<br />

trusted relationships with clients and associates, aim<strong>in</strong>g to add<br />

value to their bus<strong>in</strong>esses and be part of their success stories. Our<br />

team consists of qualified accountants, lawyers and MBA-holders<br />

who undergo rigorous tra<strong>in</strong><strong>in</strong>g to provide tailor-made solutions.<br />

77 Limassol Avenue<br />

Elia House, Nicosia 2121 - <strong>Cyprus</strong><br />

Contact: Mar<strong>in</strong>a Zevedeou -<br />

Co-founder and CEO<br />

(+357) 22 418 730<br />

mar<strong>in</strong>a.zevedeou@aspentrust.com<br />

www.aspentrust.com


DOING BUSINESS C YPRUS<br />

93<br />

UNITED ARAB EMIRATES EDITION<br />

CORPORATE SERVICES<br />

ANDREAS ATHINODOROU<br />

CEO<br />

ATG CORPORATE SERVICES<br />

‘Creat<strong>in</strong>g Protect<strong>in</strong>g and Grow<strong>in</strong>g Wealth’: We offer a<br />

comprehensive range of services that <strong>in</strong>clude <strong>in</strong>itial structur<strong>in</strong>g<br />

advice, company/trust formation, corporate adm<strong>in</strong>istration, legal<br />

and company secretarial, tax compliance, account<strong>in</strong>g and f<strong>in</strong>ancial<br />

report<strong>in</strong>g. As our clients’ trusted service partner, we act as a s<strong>in</strong>gle<br />

contact po<strong>in</strong>t for their structure’s needs and centrally coord<strong>in</strong>ate<br />

all parties <strong>in</strong>clud<strong>in</strong>g the shareholders and directors, banks, legal<br />

advisers and others. Our <strong>Cyprus</strong> solutions <strong>in</strong>clude the IP box, EU<br />

headquarter<strong>in</strong>g, tech/crypto-asset solutions and <strong>in</strong>ternational<br />

trusts/foundations. ATG Corporate Services is a member of the<br />

Ath<strong>in</strong>a Trust Group offer<strong>in</strong>g f<strong>in</strong>ancial services that <strong>in</strong>clude Fund<br />

and Private Wealth services to high-net-worth <strong>in</strong>dividuals, fund<br />

managers/promoters.<br />

KEMA Bldg, 5th Floor East,<br />

21 Akademias Avenue, 2107,<br />

Nicosia - <strong>Cyprus</strong><br />

Contact: Andreas Ath<strong>in</strong>odorou - CEO<br />

(+357) 22 057 560<br />

andreas.ath<strong>in</strong>odorou@atgcorporate.com<br />

www.atgcorporate.com<br />

CORPORATE SERVICES<br />

ANDREAS HADJIMICHAEL<br />

CEO<br />

EXECUTIVE BUSINESS CONSULTANTS LTD<br />

Executive <strong>Bus<strong>in</strong>ess</strong> Consultants Limited is an <strong>in</strong>ternational<br />

Fiduciary and Family Office Service Firm based <strong>in</strong>, and operat<strong>in</strong>g<br />

out of, Larnaca, <strong>Cyprus</strong>. It is a fully <strong>in</strong>dependent and privately<br />

owned service firm hav<strong>in</strong>g its roots established s<strong>in</strong>ce 1987. EBC<br />

operates under a boutique style concept, provid<strong>in</strong>g specialized<br />

and tailor-made solutions and services to High-Net-Worth<br />

Individuals and their corporate structures. S<strong>in</strong>ce its existence<br />

EBC has managed to develop and build strong bus<strong>in</strong>ess l<strong>in</strong>ks with<br />

both local and <strong>in</strong>ternational F<strong>in</strong>ancial Institutions, and other<br />

professionals together creat<strong>in</strong>g a strong worldwide network of<br />

reputable and trusteed associates work<strong>in</strong>g together as a team<br />

to provide our clients the knowledge and expertise required for<br />

satisfy<strong>in</strong>g their needs.<br />

Simou Menardou 8, Ria Court 8, 4th Floor,<br />

Office 402, 6015 Larnaca - <strong>Cyprus</strong><br />

PO. Box 42633, 6051<br />

Contact: Andreas Hadjimichael - CEO<br />

(+357) 24 823 999<br />

andreas@executive.com.cy<br />

www.executive.com.cy<br />

CORPORATE SERVICES<br />

ISAVELLA EVRIPIDOU<br />

CEO/FOUNDER<br />

GFSC GLOBAL<br />

GFSC Global is a lead<strong>in</strong>g Corporate and Legal Group of Companies<br />

Licensed and Regulated Worldwide. S<strong>in</strong>ce our establishment,<br />

GFSC Global assists with a full range of corporate, legal, f<strong>in</strong>ancial,<br />

licens<strong>in</strong>g, gam<strong>in</strong>g, crypto, ico/sto, blockcha<strong>in</strong>, immigration, tax<br />

advice, account<strong>in</strong>g, bank<strong>in</strong>g and adm<strong>in</strong>istration services across<br />

the world. Our services are offered <strong>in</strong> more than 70 jurisdictions,<br />

<strong>in</strong>clud<strong>in</strong>g advis<strong>in</strong>g, plann<strong>in</strong>g, formation and <strong>in</strong>corporation as<br />

well as management of <strong>in</strong>ternational structures, full licens<strong>in</strong>g<br />

and post-licens<strong>in</strong>g supports. Through our Licensed Service<br />

Providers, professional Consultants and Tax Advisors, we assist <strong>in</strong><br />

choos<strong>in</strong>g the most convenient jurisdictions, subject to your needs,<br />

operations and bus<strong>in</strong>ess <strong>in</strong>tentions. GFSC GLOBAL is a member<br />

with CYFA, CIA, ACAMs, IIA, CIFA and many other associations.<br />

Agias Zonis 22A, Iakovou center,<br />

Office 101, 3027, Limassol - <strong>Cyprus</strong><br />

Isavella Evripidou – CEO/Founder<br />

(+357) 25 269 400<br />

Evripidou.i@gfscglobal.com<br />

www.gfscglobal.com, www.gciecorp.com<br />

CORPORATE SERVICES<br />

SARA GUNNERVIK<br />

MANAGING PARTNER<br />

KENDRIS (CYPRUS) LIMITED<br />

KENDRIS is your Swiss partner <strong>in</strong> <strong>Cyprus</strong> for family office,<br />

trust and fiduciary services, <strong>in</strong>ternational tax and legal advice,<br />

account<strong>in</strong>g, outsourc<strong>in</strong>g, aviation advisory and art management.<br />

KENDRIS is fully owned and operated by its management and<br />

employees. KENDRIS Group employs around 180 specialists,<br />

and our clients comprise companies, <strong>in</strong>dividuals, and families<br />

as well as family offices, f<strong>in</strong>ancial <strong>in</strong>stitutions, law firms and tax<br />

consultancies. We offer our clients tailored solutions to help them<br />

achieve their objectives. Our strong presence and our specific<br />

know-how <strong>in</strong> various sectors and markets make us an expert<br />

and reliable partner for corporate clients, private clients, and<br />

<strong>in</strong>stitutional clients.<br />

Spyrou Kyprianou 50, Irida 3<br />

12th Floor, Larnaca 6057 - <strong>Cyprus</strong><br />

Contact: Sara Gunnervik –<br />

Office Manag<strong>in</strong>g Partner<br />

(+357) 24 631 300<br />

s.gunnervik@kendris.com<br />

www.kendris.com


DOING BUSINESS C YPRUS<br />

94<br />

UNITED ARAB EMIRATES EDITION<br />

CORPORATE SERVICES<br />

STAVROS PAVLOU<br />

CEO<br />

PAGECORP GROUP<br />

Pagecorp Group is a lead<strong>in</strong>g provider of corporate,<br />

adm<strong>in</strong>istration, secretarial and other related services based<br />

<strong>in</strong> <strong>Cyprus</strong>, with a worldwide network of professional affiliates.<br />

Licensed by the <strong>Cyprus</strong> Securities and Exchange Commission<br />

(CySEC) and with over 20 years of experience <strong>in</strong> the fiduciary<br />

and corporate services sector, the Group advises major local<br />

and <strong>in</strong>ternational organizations, <strong>in</strong>stitutions and groups, as<br />

well as start-ups and entrepreneurs on all aspects of their<br />

corporate needs, <strong>in</strong>clud<strong>in</strong>g relocat<strong>in</strong>g/headquarter<strong>in</strong>g <strong>in</strong> <strong>Cyprus</strong>.<br />

Furthermore, the legal consultants, company adm<strong>in</strong>istrators,<br />

accountants and support staff of the Group can assist clients on<br />

all matters relat<strong>in</strong>g to <strong>Cyprus</strong> International Trusts, <strong>in</strong>ternational<br />

tax plann<strong>in</strong>g, account<strong>in</strong>g, f<strong>in</strong>ancial advisory, tax adm<strong>in</strong>istration<br />

and other related services.<br />

334 Agiou Andreou & Eleftheriou Venizelou<br />

corner, Vashiotis <strong>Bus<strong>in</strong>ess</strong> Centre, Ground<br />

floor offices, 3035 Limassol - <strong>Cyprus</strong><br />

Contact: Stavros Pavlou - CEO<br />

(+357) 25 878 866<br />

<strong>in</strong>fo@pagecorpgroup.com<br />

www.pagecorpgroup.com<br />

CORPORATE SERVICES<br />

GEORGE AYIOMAMITIS<br />

MANAGING DIRECTOR<br />

SOVEREIGN GROUP - CYPRUS<br />

Sovereign is a lead<strong>in</strong>g <strong>in</strong>dependent provider of corporate,<br />

private client and retirement plann<strong>in</strong>g services. Currently<br />

manag<strong>in</strong>g over 20,000 structures for a wide variety of clients –<br />

companies, entrepreneurs, private <strong>in</strong>vestors or high net worth<br />

<strong>in</strong>dividuals (HNWIs) and their families – and have assets under<br />

adm<strong>in</strong>istration <strong>in</strong> excess of £20 billion. As an <strong>in</strong>ternational<br />

provider with a presence <strong>in</strong> over 20 jurisdictions around the<br />

world, Sovereign is dedicated to offer<strong>in</strong>g <strong>in</strong>tegrated advice,<br />

products and services to <strong>in</strong>ternationally mobile bus<strong>in</strong>esses<br />

and people that have sophisticated and often complex needs.<br />

Sovereign assist them to generate, structure and protect their<br />

<strong>in</strong>come and assets <strong>in</strong> the most efficient way.<br />

16 Herodotou Street,<br />

Limassol, 3095 - <strong>Cyprus</strong><br />

Contact: George Ayiomamitis<br />

- Manag<strong>in</strong>g Director<br />

(+357) 25 733 440<br />

cy@SovereignGroup.com<br />

www.SovereignGroup.com<br />

CORPORATE SERVICES<br />

ANDREAS MERCOURI<br />

MANAGING DIRECTOR<br />

TRIDENT TRUST COMPANY (CYPRUS) LIMITED<br />

Founded <strong>in</strong> 1978, the Trident Trust Group is one of the largest<br />

<strong>in</strong>dependent global providers of corporate, trust, fund, mar<strong>in</strong>e and<br />

fiduciary services. With presence <strong>in</strong> more than 24 Jurisdictions<br />

ensures access to a range of services that extends from traditional<br />

corporate domicile representation to the adm<strong>in</strong>istration<br />

of complex trust and fund structures. Trident Trust <strong>Cyprus</strong><br />

established its presence over 25 years ago, is regulated by the<br />

<strong>Cyprus</strong> Securities and Exchange Commission, and is today one<br />

of the largest members of the local f<strong>in</strong>ancial services <strong>in</strong>dustry,<br />

employ<strong>in</strong>g over 80 professionally qualified staff.<br />

Griva Digeni 115, Trident Centre<br />

3101 Limassol - <strong>Cyprus</strong><br />

Contact: Andreas Mercouri -<br />

Manag<strong>in</strong>g Director<br />

(+357) 25 820 650<br />

cyprus@tridenttrust.com<br />

www.tridenttrust.com<br />

CORPORATE SERVICES<br />

NICK TERRY<br />

MANAGING DIRECTOR<br />

VISTRA (CYPRUS) LTD<br />

At Vistra, we believe your bus<strong>in</strong>ess and your people can make a<br />

difference <strong>in</strong> the world. That’s why our work is focused on help<strong>in</strong>g<br />

our clients act with confidence and speed to seize opportunity<br />

wherever it arises. As a global corporate service provider and<br />

fund adm<strong>in</strong>istrator with more than 5,000 professionals <strong>in</strong> over 45<br />

jurisdictions, we empower legal entities globally to work smarter,<br />

grow faster, act responsibly, protect capital and scale across<br />

borders — by do<strong>in</strong>g what we do best: reduc<strong>in</strong>g risk and enhanc<strong>in</strong>g<br />

efficiency. Discover how we can help you and your bus<strong>in</strong>ess seize<br />

opportunity today by explor<strong>in</strong>g our services at vistra.com.<br />

2nd Floor Sotiri Tof<strong>in</strong>i 4<br />

Agios Athanasios, 4102 Limassol - <strong>Cyprus</strong><br />

Contact: Nick Terry - Manag<strong>in</strong>g Director<br />

(+357) 25 817 411<br />

Nick.Terry@vistra.com<br />

www.vistra.com


DOING BUSINESS C YPRUS<br />

95<br />

UNITED ARAB EMIRATES EDITION<br />

ECONOMIC ANALYSIS<br />

FIONA MULLEN<br />

DIRECTOR<br />

SAPIENTA ECONOMICS LTD<br />

Sapienta Economics is a Nicosia-based economic consultancy<br />

produc<strong>in</strong>g top-level analysis primarily on <strong>Cyprus</strong> for a range<br />

of prestigious clients, <strong>in</strong>clud<strong>in</strong>g banks, oil/gas majors, big four<br />

account<strong>in</strong>g firms and over a dozen embassies. Our services<br />

<strong>in</strong>clude bespoke consultancy and the monthly Sapienta Country<br />

Analysis <strong>Cyprus</strong>. Each month we take an <strong>in</strong>-depth look at prospects<br />

for political stability, government effectiveness, a resolution of the<br />

<strong>Cyprus</strong> problem, structural policies <strong>in</strong>clud<strong>in</strong>g natural gas, fiscal<br />

performance, debt susta<strong>in</strong>ability, bank<strong>in</strong>g sector stability and the<br />

latest economic trends. No other organization offers such breadth<br />

and depth of <strong>in</strong>ter-related issues. Sapienta Economics and its<br />

Director Fiona Mullen are <strong>in</strong>dependent, with no political ties <strong>in</strong><br />

<strong>Cyprus</strong> or abroad and no <strong>in</strong>vestment <strong>in</strong> <strong>Cyprus</strong> shares or bonds.<br />

Tenedou 7, No 401, Lykavitos,<br />

CY1055 Nicosia - <strong>Cyprus</strong><br />

Contact: Fiona Mullen - Director<br />

(+357) 99 338 224<br />

fiona.mullen@sapientaeconomics.com<br />

www.sapientaeconomics.com<br />

ENERGY<br />

DEMETRIS C. FESSAS<br />

ACTING DIRECTOR GENERAL<br />

CYPRUS HYDROCARBONS COMPANY (CHC)<br />

CHC is the National Oil and Gas Company of <strong>Cyprus</strong>. As a stateowned<br />

company, CHC undertakes the commercial management<br />

of the ownership rights of the Republic of <strong>Cyprus</strong> that arise from<br />

the contracts with which it has entered <strong>in</strong>to with oil and gas<br />

companies with<strong>in</strong> its Exclusive Economic Zone. The vision of<br />

CHC is aligned with that of the Government of <strong>Cyprus</strong>, which is<br />

to ensure the susta<strong>in</strong>able development of hydrocarbon resources<br />

present <strong>in</strong> the Exclusive Economic Zone of the Republic of <strong>Cyprus</strong>,<br />

<strong>in</strong> order to maximize the benefits for Cypriot society and future<br />

generations.<br />

53 Strovolou Avenue, Victory Build<strong>in</strong>g,<br />

2018 Strovolos, Nicosia - <strong>Cyprus</strong><br />

Contact: Demetris Fessas –<br />

Act<strong>in</strong>g Director General<br />

(+357) 22 203 880<br />

d.fessas@chc.com.cy<br />

www.chc.com.cy<br />

EXECUTIVE EDUCATION<br />

MARIOS SIATHAS<br />

CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER<br />

EUROPEAN INSTITUTE OF MANAGEMENT AND FINANCE (EIMF)<br />

The EIMF is an accredited and licensed Education Group that<br />

offers learn<strong>in</strong>g and development opportunities, <strong>in</strong>clud<strong>in</strong>g<br />

Global Qualifications, across an array of areas. EIMF possesses<br />

a strong concentration with<strong>in</strong> the areas of f<strong>in</strong>ancial and<br />

professional services (regulation, compliance, AML, bank<strong>in</strong>g,<br />

funds), account<strong>in</strong>g, legal, management, as well as Information-<br />

Technology through its New Horizons Computer Learn<strong>in</strong>g Centers.<br />

Knowledge is delivered by established subject-matter experts,<br />

through classroom, Live Onl<strong>in</strong>e, eLearn<strong>in</strong>g and customized<br />

learn<strong>in</strong>g solutions. With a presence <strong>in</strong> London, Brussels, Frankfurt,<br />

Belgrade, Copenhagen, Nicosia, Tel Aviv, Athens, Sofia, Dubl<strong>in</strong> and<br />

Bucharest and over 5,000 students annually, 330+ programmes,<br />

60+ <strong>in</strong>structors and 25 <strong>in</strong>ternational Certifications, make the EIMF<br />

a leader <strong>in</strong> the field of vocational education <strong>in</strong> the wider region.<br />

25 Megaron Street, 2032 Strovolos<br />

Nicosia - <strong>Cyprus</strong><br />

Contact: Marios Siathas -<br />

Chief Executive Officer<br />

(+357) 22 274 470<br />

msiathas@eimf.eu<br />

www.eimf.eu<br />

FINANCIAL ADVISORY<br />

DEMETRIS TAXITARIS<br />

CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER<br />

MAP S.PLATIS GROUP<br />

MAP S.Platis Group is a lead<strong>in</strong>g f<strong>in</strong>ancial services consult<strong>in</strong>g Group<br />

with clients that <strong>in</strong>clude regulators, banks, funds and fund managers,<br />

<strong>in</strong>vestment firms, brokers, f<strong>in</strong>tech firms, <strong>in</strong>surance firms and payment<br />

and electronic money <strong>in</strong>stitutions. Our expert team, currently<br />

compris<strong>in</strong>g over 400 high-calibre professionals, provides unique<br />

and tailored solutions <strong>in</strong> licens<strong>in</strong>g, regulatory compliance, risk management,<br />

<strong>in</strong>ternal audit, human resources, regulatory technology,<br />

<strong>in</strong>formation technology, bus<strong>in</strong>ess resilience, <strong>in</strong>formation security<br />

<strong>in</strong>clud<strong>in</strong>g cybersecurity, governance, executive tra<strong>in</strong><strong>in</strong>g and <strong>in</strong>novation<br />

consult<strong>in</strong>g to f<strong>in</strong>ancial and other firms <strong>in</strong> the UK, <strong>Cyprus</strong> and the<br />

EU. Thanks to our vast regulatory compliance experience, cont<strong>in</strong>ued<br />

<strong>in</strong>teraction with regulatory authorities, unparalleled track record,<br />

global network of associates and wealth of resources, our team can<br />

support any client’s regulatory needs efficiently and effectively.<br />

74 Archiepiskopou Makariou C, Floors 2-3,<br />

Mesa Geitonia, 4003, Limassol - <strong>Cyprus</strong><br />

Contact: Herodotos Michael - Senior<br />

Manager, Authorisations and Regulatory<br />

<strong>Bus<strong>in</strong>ess</strong> Development (+357) 25 351 335<br />

<strong>in</strong>fo@mapsplatis.com<br />

www.mapsplatis.com


DOING BUSINESS C YPRUS<br />

96<br />

UNITED ARAB EMIRATES EDITION<br />

FUND ADMINISTRATION<br />

ANDREAS ATHINODOROU<br />

CEO<br />

ATG FUND SERVICES<br />

‘Creat<strong>in</strong>g Protect<strong>in</strong>g and Grow<strong>in</strong>g Wealth’: We offer a<br />

comprehensive range of services <strong>in</strong>clud<strong>in</strong>g <strong>in</strong>itial fund structur<strong>in</strong>g<br />

advice, licens<strong>in</strong>g, fund set up, fund management support, fund<br />

adm<strong>in</strong>istration/back-office, registrar transfer agent services, NAV<br />

and regulatory report<strong>in</strong>g. As our clients’ trusted service partner<br />

we act as a s<strong>in</strong>gle contact po<strong>in</strong>t for their structures, centrally<br />

coord<strong>in</strong>at<strong>in</strong>g all fund parties <strong>in</strong>clud<strong>in</strong>g the fund manager,<br />

<strong>in</strong>vestors, depositary and the regulator. Our clients are <strong>Cyprus</strong>,<br />

Cayman Islands and BVI funds that <strong>in</strong>vest <strong>in</strong> liquid securities,<br />

private equity, real estate, shipp<strong>in</strong>g and crypto assets. ATG Fund<br />

Services is a member of the Ath<strong>in</strong>a Trust Group offer<strong>in</strong>g f<strong>in</strong>ancial<br />

services that <strong>in</strong>clude Corporate and Private Wealth services to<br />

high-net-worth <strong>in</strong>dividuals and corporates.<br />

KEMA Bldg, 5th Floor East,<br />

21 Akademias Avenue, 2107,<br />

Nicosia - <strong>Cyprus</strong><br />

Contact: Andreas Ath<strong>in</strong>odorou - CEO<br />

(+357) 22 057 570<br />

andreas.ath<strong>in</strong>odorou@atgfunds.com<br />

www.atgfunds.com<br />

FUND MANAGEMENT<br />

NIKOLAS CHARALAMBOUS<br />

CEO<br />

INVEQO FUND MANAGEMENT LTD<br />

Inveqo Fund Management Ltd (INVEQO) is an Alternative<br />

Investment Fund Manager, authorised and supervised by the<br />

<strong>Cyprus</strong> Securities and Exchange Commission (CySEC) with<br />

license number AIFM32/56/2013. The team br<strong>in</strong>gs together<br />

several years of experience <strong>in</strong> fund and <strong>in</strong>vestment management<br />

services <strong>in</strong> various jurisdictions such as the United K<strong>in</strong>gdom,<br />

Malta, Luxembourg and <strong>Cyprus</strong>. INVEQO provides a range of<br />

services, <strong>in</strong>clud<strong>in</strong>g portfolio management, risk management,<br />

adm<strong>in</strong>istration, fund set-up, licens<strong>in</strong>g and registration, and<br />

other fund related services. Our mission is to create value for our<br />

<strong>in</strong>vestors, clients and associates by demonstrat<strong>in</strong>g pr<strong>in</strong>cipled<br />

<strong>in</strong>dustry leadership, offer<strong>in</strong>g high-quality services, and <strong>in</strong>novative<br />

solutions.<br />

16 Navar<strong>in</strong>ou Street, Agios Andreas<br />

CY-1100, Nicosia - <strong>Cyprus</strong><br />

Nikolas Charalambous - CEO<br />

(+357) 22 666 500<br />

<strong>in</strong>fo@<strong>in</strong>veqo.net<br />

www.<strong>in</strong>veqo.net<br />

FUND MANAGEMENT<br />

MARIA PAPAKOKKINOU<br />

EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR<br />

IXI INVESTMENTS<br />

IXI Investments is authorized by CySEC as an Alternative<br />

Investment Fund Manager, focused on achiev<strong>in</strong>g capital growth<br />

with relatively low drawdowns and low correlation and by actively<br />

manag<strong>in</strong>g exposures <strong>in</strong> the G10 currencies and gold. IXI applies a<br />

robust <strong>in</strong>-house developed <strong>in</strong>vestment process and an efficient<br />

execution framework that allows it to tap <strong>in</strong>to the FX market <strong>in</strong> a<br />

timely and systematic manner, from the signal generation stage<br />

to trades execution. IXI employs sophisticated computational<br />

systems for its trad<strong>in</strong>g and execution algorithms which implement<br />

advanced quantitative, mathematical, and statistical models.<br />

Syntagmatos Square, Old Port, Build<strong>in</strong>g X1,<br />

1ST Floor, 3042 Limassol - <strong>Cyprus</strong><br />

Contact: Maria Papakokk<strong>in</strong>ou - COO<br />

(+357) 25 262 669<br />

<strong>in</strong>fo@ixi.com<br />

www.ixi.com<br />

FUND MANAGEMENT<br />

ANDREY NARUTSKIY<br />

MANAGING DIRECTOR, CEO<br />

LEON MFO INVESTMENTS LTD<br />

Leon MFO Investments Ltd is an Alternative Investment Fund<br />

Manager authorized and regulated by CySEC (license number AIFM<br />

37/56/2013). The firm offers Multi-Family-Office (MFO) services<br />

to high-net-worth-<strong>in</strong>dividuals, provid<strong>in</strong>g discretionary portfolio<br />

management, <strong>in</strong>vestment advice and succession plann<strong>in</strong>g. Total<br />

assets under management exceed $800mln. Recently, Leon<br />

launched two RAIFs which are addressed to professional and well<strong>in</strong>formed<br />

<strong>in</strong>vestors: a) LEON Income Fund RAIF VCIC PLC and b)<br />

LEON Global Hedge Fund RAIF VCIC PLC.<br />

37, Theklas Lisioti, Gem<strong>in</strong>i House,<br />

Office 301, CY-3030, Limassol - <strong>Cyprus</strong><br />

Contact: Andrey Narutskiy -<br />

Manag<strong>in</strong>g Director, CEO<br />

(+357) 25 268 120<br />

leonmfo@leonmfo.com<br />

www.leon<strong>in</strong>vestments.com.cy


DOING BUSINESS C YPRUS<br />

97<br />

UNITED ARAB EMIRATES EDITION<br />

FUND MANAGEMENT<br />

GEORGE W. SAMS<br />

CEO<br />

WEALTH FUND SERVICES LTD<br />

Wealth Fund Services Ltd is a global advisory and asset<br />

management company, based <strong>in</strong> <strong>Cyprus</strong> and licensed by<br />

CySEC (<strong>Cyprus</strong> Securities & Exchange Commission) as an AIFM<br />

management company with license No 6/78/2012. It operates<br />

<strong>in</strong> the field of sett<strong>in</strong>g-up, runn<strong>in</strong>g and manag<strong>in</strong>g UCITS Mutual<br />

Fund, Registered Alternative Fund (RAIF) and Alternative<br />

Investment Fund (AIF) <strong>in</strong> l<strong>in</strong>e with the recent EU Directive which is<br />

implemented by the Cypriot legislation. It also offers Discretionary<br />

Asset management and Advisory services to HNI and Institutional<br />

clients. The primary goal of the Company is the protection of the<br />

assets under management rema<strong>in</strong><strong>in</strong>g focused on achiev<strong>in</strong>g high<br />

return yields and provid<strong>in</strong>g top quality services to its <strong>in</strong>vestors.<br />

Kennedy 12-14, Kennedy <strong>Bus<strong>in</strong>ess</strong> Center<br />

Office 305, 1087, Nicosia - <strong>Cyprus</strong><br />

Contact: George Sams - CEO<br />

(+357) 22 755 506-07<br />

<strong>in</strong>fo@wealthfs.com.cy<br />

www.wealthfs.com.cy<br />

INVESTMENT PROMOTION<br />

EVGENIOS EVGENIOU<br />

CHAIRMAN<br />

INVEST CYPRUS<br />

Invest <strong>Cyprus</strong> (<strong>Cyprus</strong> Investment Promotion Agency) is the<br />

<strong>in</strong>vestment authority of the Government of <strong>Cyprus</strong> dedicated to<br />

attract and facilitate foreign direct <strong>in</strong>vestment <strong>in</strong>to the country.<br />

In close collaboration with all governmental authorities and<br />

public <strong>in</strong>stitutions, as well as the private sector, Invest <strong>Cyprus</strong> is<br />

the country’s lead agent <strong>in</strong> establish<strong>in</strong>g <strong>Cyprus</strong> as a world-class<br />

dest<strong>in</strong>ation for <strong>in</strong>ternational bus<strong>in</strong>ess activity and <strong>in</strong>vestments.<br />

Invest <strong>Cyprus</strong>’ mandate is to raise awareness of <strong>Cyprus</strong> as a<br />

dest<strong>in</strong>ation for FDI across the globe, provid<strong>in</strong>g certa<strong>in</strong>ty around all<br />

aspects of operat<strong>in</strong>g a bus<strong>in</strong>ess <strong>in</strong> <strong>Cyprus</strong> and support<strong>in</strong>g potential<br />

<strong>in</strong>vestors <strong>in</strong> develop<strong>in</strong>g their bus<strong>in</strong>ess case for <strong>in</strong>vestment <strong>in</strong>to the<br />

country.<br />

9 Makariou III Avenue,<br />

4th Floor, 1065 Nicosia - <strong>Cyprus</strong><br />

(+357) 22 441 133<br />

<strong>in</strong>fo@<strong>in</strong>vestcyprus.org.cy<br />

www.<strong>in</strong>vestcyprus.org.cy<br />

INVESTMENT SERVICES<br />

JOHNY ABUAITAH<br />

CEO<br />

WINDSOR BROKERS LTD<br />

W<strong>in</strong>dsor Brokers was established <strong>in</strong> Limassol <strong>Cyprus</strong> with roots<br />

dat<strong>in</strong>g back to 1988. The Company was the first Cypriot Investment<br />

Firm of its type to be licensed and regulated by the Central Bank<br />

of <strong>Cyprus</strong>, and by 2004, it was regulated by the <strong>Cyprus</strong> Securities<br />

and Exchange Commission. Our company’s mission is to empower<br />

people <strong>in</strong> the pursuit of their f<strong>in</strong>ancial goals. For over three<br />

decades, we have rema<strong>in</strong>ed committed to serv<strong>in</strong>g <strong>in</strong>vestors who<br />

place security, <strong>in</strong>tegrity, and reliability at the forefront of their<br />

<strong>in</strong>vestment goals.<br />

W<strong>in</strong>dsor Brokers <strong>Bus<strong>in</strong>ess</strong> Center,<br />

Spyrou Kyprianou 53, Mesa Geitonia<br />

4003 Limassol - <strong>Cyprus</strong><br />

Contact: Jabra Serieh - Director of Market<strong>in</strong>g<br />

(+357) 25 500 700<br />

Jabra.Serieh@W<strong>in</strong>dsorBrokers.eu<br />

www.w<strong>in</strong>dsorbrokers.eu<br />

LAW FIRM<br />

ANGELOS G. PAPHITIS<br />

MANAGING PARTNER<br />

A.G.PAPHITIS & CO. LLC<br />

AGP & Co is a highly reputable, lead<strong>in</strong>g, dynamic and award<br />

w<strong>in</strong>n<strong>in</strong>g Law Firm. Our reputation for excellence is recognized<br />

worldwide. Based <strong>in</strong> <strong>Cyprus</strong> with strong <strong>in</strong>ternational presence<br />

and a full service office <strong>in</strong> the <strong>UAE</strong>, we serve our clients as a team,<br />

with a common focus on <strong>in</strong>novation, efficiency and agility. We<br />

provide full service Legal, Corporate, FS Advisory & Regulatory<br />

Compliance/AML, Crypto Licens<strong>in</strong>g, Tax, Immigration, Relocation<br />

and Real Estate services. AGP & Co consists of the follow<strong>in</strong>g ma<strong>in</strong><br />

departments: Dispute Resolution; Corporate/Commercial; FS<br />

Advisory & Regulatory Compliance; Real Estate & Immigration;<br />

Tax-Account<strong>in</strong>g-Audit. Deliver<strong>in</strong>g excellent client service that<br />

benefits from long and last<strong>in</strong>g relationships, we are dedicated to<br />

provid<strong>in</strong>g our clients with superior results.<br />

“AGP Chambers”, 84 Spyrou<br />

Kyprianou Avenue,<br />

4004 Limassol - <strong>Cyprus</strong><br />

Postal Address: P.O.Box 58419,<br />

3734 Limassol - <strong>Cyprus</strong><br />

Contact: Angelos G. Paphitis<br />

- Manag<strong>in</strong>g Partner<br />

(+357) 25 731 000<br />

angelos.paphitis@agplaw.com<br />

www.agplaw.com


DOING BUSINESS C YPRUS<br />

98<br />

UNITED ARAB EMIRATES EDITION<br />

LAW FIRM<br />

AGNI LIVERA<br />

MANAGING DIRECTOR<br />

AGNI LIVERA LLC<br />

Agni Livera LLC is a highly experienced and fully serviced law firm,<br />

based <strong>in</strong> Nicosia, <strong>Cyprus</strong>. Agni Livera LLC offers a complete array<br />

of legal services specialis<strong>in</strong>g <strong>in</strong> the areas of Bank<strong>in</strong>g & F<strong>in</strong>ance,<br />

Company law, Insurance law, Debt Collection, Employment law,<br />

Intellectual Property, Fund services, Regulatory and Compliance<br />

services as well as a full range of Fiduciary services. Follow<strong>in</strong>g<br />

a client centric approach, the firms’ high-caliber lawyers are<br />

equipped to accommodate all your legal needs, offer<strong>in</strong>g the<br />

highest level of service and advice applicable <strong>in</strong> a fast and costefficient<br />

way, always operat<strong>in</strong>g with discretion, professionalism,<br />

<strong>in</strong>tegrity and transparency.<br />

1-3 Bouboul<strong>in</strong>as Street, Bouboul<strong>in</strong>a<br />

Build<strong>in</strong>g, 3rd Floor, Office 34,<br />

1060 Nicosia - <strong>Cyprus</strong><br />

Contact: Agni Livera – Manag<strong>in</strong>g Director<br />

(+357) 22 552 733<br />

agni@liveralaw.com<br />

www.liveralaw.com<br />

LAW FIRM<br />

LORENZO TOFFOLONI<br />

PARTNER<br />

ANDREAS TH. SOFOKLEOUS LLC<br />

With nearly 40 years of experience, Andreas Th. Sofokleous<br />

LLC is a dynamic and modern boutique law firm. Andreas Th.<br />

Sofokleous LLC has been ranked on top-notch legal directories<br />

(such as Chambers and Partners) and received accomplishments<br />

from different organizations. The firm specializes <strong>in</strong> private client<br />

matters and corporate law (<strong>in</strong>clud<strong>in</strong>g cross border transactions). It<br />

regularly advises high net worth <strong>in</strong>dividuals on a range of matters,<br />

<strong>in</strong>clud<strong>in</strong>g tax plann<strong>in</strong>g, <strong>in</strong>heritance and asset management.<br />

2, Agap<strong>in</strong>oros Street & Makariou III,<br />

IRIS TOWER, Offices 403-405,<br />

1076, Nicosia - <strong>Cyprus</strong><br />

Contact: Lorenzo Toffoloni - Partner<br />

(+357) 22 763 601<br />

<strong>in</strong>fo@aslaw.eu<br />

www.aslaw.eu<br />

LAW FIRM<br />

ANTONIS PASCHALIDES<br />

SENIOR PARTNER: HEAD OF<br />

ENERGY LAW DEPARTMENT<br />

ANTONIS PASCHALIDES & CO LLC<br />

Antonis Paschalides & Co LLC is a boutique, medium-size law firm<br />

based <strong>in</strong> Nicosia that has provided legal services on a local and<br />

<strong>in</strong>ternational level for over 40 years. The Firm has associates <strong>in</strong><br />

UK, Russia, Greece and France. The trust of clients and associates<br />

<strong>in</strong> the high quality of work provided by the Firm is reflected on<br />

the projects <strong>in</strong> which it is <strong>in</strong>volved, and which <strong>in</strong>clude some of<br />

the biggest <strong>in</strong>vestments ever made <strong>in</strong> Russia and Eastern Europe.<br />

Ma<strong>in</strong> areas of practice: Mergers & Acquisitions, Corporate Law,<br />

Bank<strong>in</strong>g, Civil & Commercial litigation, Family Law, Conveyance &<br />

Estate Plann<strong>in</strong>g.<br />

Makariou & Ayias Elenis 36,<br />

Galaxias Build<strong>in</strong>g, 5th floor, Office<br />

502, 1061 Nicosia - <strong>Cyprus</strong><br />

Contact: Lila Kartelia, Head of<br />

Litigation Department<br />

(+357) 22 661 661<br />

l.kartelia@paschalides.com<br />

www.paschalides.com<br />

LAW FIRM<br />

ARETI CHARIDEMOU<br />

FOUNDER<br />

ARETI CHARIDEMOU & ASSOCIATES LLC<br />

Areti Charidemou & Associates LLC was established <strong>in</strong> 1990 with<br />

a vision of be<strong>in</strong>g committed to excellence while creat<strong>in</strong>g a wellrespected<br />

diverse portfolio of <strong>in</strong>ternational clientele. Our areas<br />

of expertise range from Property Law to Trust Law, Company<br />

Law, Mergers and Acquisitions, Tax and Estate Law and Shipp<strong>in</strong>g<br />

Law. Our knowledgeable professionals provide legal services <strong>in</strong><br />

a variety of issues <strong>in</strong>clud<strong>in</strong>g buy<strong>in</strong>g properties and <strong>in</strong>vest<strong>in</strong>g <strong>in</strong><br />

<strong>Cyprus</strong> or abroad, advice on the optimum tax structure based<br />

on the <strong>in</strong>dividual circumstances, <strong>in</strong>corporate companies <strong>in</strong><br />

<strong>Cyprus</strong> or abroad, support the operation of the companies after<br />

the <strong>in</strong>corporation, provide nom<strong>in</strong>ee services if required, etc.<br />

Our objective is to ensure that our clients, whether these are<br />

<strong>in</strong>dividuals, small bus<strong>in</strong>ess entities or large organizations, benefit<br />

from the best of legal advice.<br />

Vasili Michailidi 21-23,<br />

3026 Limassol - <strong>Cyprus</strong><br />

Contact: Areti Charidemou - Founder<br />

(+357) 25 508 000<br />

<strong>in</strong>fo@aretilaw.com<br />

www.aretilaw.com


DOING BUSINESS C YPRUS<br />

99<br />

UNITED ARAB EMIRATES EDITION<br />

LAW FIRM<br />

ELENI TZIONI<br />

MANAGING DIRECTOR<br />

E. TZIONI & ASSOCIATES LLC<br />

E. Tzioni & Associates LLC is a fastly grow<strong>in</strong>g boutique law firm<br />

based <strong>in</strong> Nicosia, <strong>Cyprus</strong>. With its <strong>in</strong>novative and flexible approach,<br />

E. Tzioni & Associates LLC delivers the most efficient, complete<br />

and optimum quality service available today. E. Tzioni & Associates<br />

LLC takes the pride of cover<strong>in</strong>g a wide area of knowledge and<br />

expertise possess<strong>in</strong>g strong legal background and experience <strong>in</strong><br />

corporate and commercial matters, with a special emphasis on<br />

mergers and acquisitions, bank<strong>in</strong>g and f<strong>in</strong>ance, jo<strong>in</strong>t ventures<br />

and <strong>in</strong>ternational, cross-border transactions and start-ups as<br />

well as litigation matters. Our practice further possesses a robust<br />

background <strong>in</strong> alternative <strong>in</strong>vestment funds and other regulated<br />

entities, provid<strong>in</strong>g full services rang<strong>in</strong>g from the set up to creation<br />

and function<strong>in</strong>g.<br />

7 Dositheou Street, Para Build<strong>in</strong>g,<br />

Block A, Office 001, 1071 Nicosia - <strong>Cyprus</strong><br />

Contact: Eleni Tzioni - Manag<strong>in</strong>g Director<br />

(+357) 22 932 293<br />

<strong>in</strong>fo@tzionilaw.com.cy<br />

www.tzionilaw.com.cy<br />

LAW FIRM<br />

ELIAS NEOCLEOUS<br />

MANAGING PARTNER<br />

ELIAS NEOCLEOUS & CO LLC<br />

Award-w<strong>in</strong>n<strong>in</strong>g Elias Neocleous & Co LLC is the largest law firm<br />

<strong>in</strong> <strong>Cyprus</strong> and one of the top law firms <strong>in</strong> south east Europe. With<br />

more than 150 lawyers and other professionals based <strong>in</strong> offices<br />

<strong>in</strong> <strong>Cyprus</strong>, Brussels, Budapest, Kiev and Prague we offer a valueadded<br />

service which is second to none. We are dedicated to<br />

diversity <strong>in</strong> recruitment and to reta<strong>in</strong><strong>in</strong>g experienced specialists<br />

<strong>in</strong> every practice area. Comb<strong>in</strong>ed with our <strong>in</strong>vestment <strong>in</strong> IT and<br />

knowledge management <strong>in</strong>frastructure, this means we are able<br />

to tackle the largest and most demand<strong>in</strong>g national and crossborder<br />

assignments. Elias Neocleous and Co LLC is professional,<br />

responsive, <strong>in</strong>novative, and represents the legal practice of the<br />

future.<br />

Neocleous House, 195 Makarios Avenue,<br />

P O Box 50613, Limassol CY 3608 - <strong>Cyprus</strong><br />

Contact: Elias Neocleous - Manag<strong>in</strong>g Partner<br />

(+357) 25 110 110<br />

<strong>in</strong>fo@neo.law<br />

www.neo.law<br />

LAW FIRM<br />

GEORGE Z. GEORGIOU<br />

MANAGING PARTNER<br />

GEORGE Z. GEORGIOU & ASSOCIATES LLC<br />

George Z. Georgiou & Associates LLC is a full-service Cypriot<br />

law firm with offices <strong>in</strong> Nicosia and Limassol. It consists of<br />

approx.70 lawyers, arbitrators, legal consultants and support<br />

staff and is ranked <strong>in</strong> the ma<strong>in</strong> <strong>in</strong>ternational legal directories:<br />

Chambers & Partners, Legal 500 and Who’s Who Legal. The<br />

Firm’s specialist departments <strong>in</strong>clude: Arbitration • Bank<strong>in</strong>g &<br />

F<strong>in</strong>ance • Commercial • Corporate (<strong>in</strong>cl. M&A) • Data Protection •<br />

Employment & Pensions • Estate Plann<strong>in</strong>g • EU Law • Family Law •<br />

Intellectual Property & Media • Litigation (<strong>Cyprus</strong> & International)<br />

• Private Client • Probate • Property & Construction • Regulatory<br />

& Compliance • Tax • Tech. As the sole Cypriot member of the<br />

<strong>in</strong>ternational law alliances Ius Laboris and GALA, it is able to<br />

provide any client with prompt, fully-coord<strong>in</strong>ated, yet locally<br />

specific advice from countries across the globe.<br />

Head Office: 1 Iras Street,<br />

1060 Nicosia - <strong>Cyprus</strong><br />

(+357) 22 763 340<br />

adm<strong>in</strong>@gzg.com.cy<br />

www.gzg.com.cy<br />

LAW FIRM<br />

LEANDROS PAPAPHILIPPOU<br />

MANAGING PARTNER<br />

L PAPAPHILIPPOU & CO LLC<br />

L Papaphilippou & Co LLC was founded <strong>in</strong> 1963. Through constant<br />

and consistent work, it is now one of the lead<strong>in</strong>g and most<br />

respectable law firms <strong>in</strong> <strong>Cyprus</strong>. The firm quickly established<br />

strong presence <strong>in</strong> the fields of corporate and shipp<strong>in</strong>g law,<br />

litigation, bank<strong>in</strong>g and f<strong>in</strong>ance, wealth management and<br />

immigration, thus achiev<strong>in</strong>g good cross-border reputation, which<br />

led to the development of a concrete <strong>in</strong>ternational professional<br />

network and client base. Our list of clients <strong>in</strong>cludes regulatory<br />

bodies, local and <strong>in</strong>ternational bank<strong>in</strong>g and f<strong>in</strong>ancial <strong>in</strong>stitutions,<br />

<strong>in</strong>surance, shipp<strong>in</strong>g and listed companies, mult<strong>in</strong>ationals and<br />

high net worth <strong>in</strong>dividuals.<br />

17 Ifigenias Street, 2007 Strovolos,<br />

P.O.Box 28541, 2080 Nicosia - <strong>Cyprus</strong><br />

Contact: Leandros Papaphilippou<br />

- Manag<strong>in</strong>g Partner<br />

(+357) 22 271 000<br />

<strong>in</strong>fo@papaphilippou.eu<br />

www.papaphilippou.eu


DOING BUSINESS C YPRUS<br />

100<br />

UNITED ARAB EMIRATES EDITION<br />

LAW FIRM<br />

NICKY XENOFONTOS<br />

FOUNDER, MANAGING<br />

PARTNER<br />

N. XENOFONTOS LLC LAW FIRM<br />

N. Xenofontos LLC is a specialist, boutique bus<strong>in</strong>ess centric law<br />

firm, servic<strong>in</strong>g both private clients and bus<strong>in</strong>esses. In provid<strong>in</strong>g<br />

our specialised services we deploy a collaborative workflow,<br />

result<strong>in</strong>g <strong>in</strong> efficient and solid advice, experience, with agility.<br />

Our specialist, tailored expertise ecompasses these core<br />

services: Corporate Advisory; Corporate Secretarial / Corporate<br />

Adm<strong>in</strong>istration; Professional Fiduciary services; Trusts / Estate<br />

Plann<strong>in</strong>g / Establishment and adm<strong>in</strong>istration; M&A / Jo<strong>in</strong>t Ventures;<br />

Intellectual Property; Insolvency, Bankruptcy and Restructur<strong>in</strong>g;<br />

Contractual; Legal Op<strong>in</strong>ions; Compliance, AML , Regulatory and<br />

Privacy law; Legal Tra<strong>in</strong><strong>in</strong>g / Sem<strong>in</strong>ars / Web<strong>in</strong>ars; Real Estate;<br />

Employment; Immigration & Migration. Our philosophy is simple:<br />

“Knowledge is of no use unless put <strong>in</strong>to practice” - Anton Chekhov<br />

4 Promitheos Street,<br />

Executive Centre, 1st floor, office M01<br />

1065 Nicosia - <strong>Cyprus</strong><br />

Contact: Nicky Xenofontos –<br />

Founder, Manag<strong>in</strong>g Partner<br />

(+357) 22 25 20 77<br />

nicky@xenofontosllc.com<br />

www.xenofontosllc.com<br />

LAW FIRM<br />

STAVROS PAVLOU<br />

SENIOR AND MANAGING<br />

PARTNER<br />

PATRIKIOS PAVLOU & ASSOCIATES LLC<br />

Patrikios Pavlou & Associates LLC is a lead<strong>in</strong>g law firm <strong>in</strong> <strong>Cyprus</strong>.<br />

With nearly 60 years of experience <strong>in</strong> the local and <strong>in</strong>ternational<br />

legal market, the Firm has developed dist<strong>in</strong>guished expertise<br />

<strong>in</strong> dispute resolution and ADR and a renowned legal consult<strong>in</strong>g<br />

department. The legal teams are constantly <strong>in</strong>volved <strong>in</strong> some of the<br />

largest cross-border bank<strong>in</strong>g, f<strong>in</strong>ancial and corporate transactions<br />

and handle complex litigation, arbitration and mediation matters.<br />

In close cooperation with the associated Pagecorp Group, the<br />

Firm provides its clients with a comprehensive range of corporate<br />

and other related services. The Firm is highly recommended by<br />

prestigious legal directories worldwide for its dist<strong>in</strong>ctive legal<br />

services.<br />

Patrician Chambers, 332<br />

Agiou Andreou Street,<br />

3035 Limassol - <strong>Cyprus</strong><br />

Contact: Stavros Pavlou - Senior<br />

and Manag<strong>in</strong>g Partner<br />

(+357) 25 871 599<br />

spavlou@pavlaw.com<br />

www.pavlaw.com<br />

LAW FIRM<br />

CELIA POURGOURA<br />

PARTNER<br />

POURGOURA & ASPRI LLC<br />

We are a progressive commercial Law Firm, compris<strong>in</strong>g of a team<br />

of dynamic and highly specialised lawyers with diverse academic<br />

and professional backgrounds. Our paramount objective is to offer<br />

the highest level of professional and personalised service to the<br />

client, yet <strong>in</strong> a quick, efficient and affordable manner. Our mission<br />

is to establish ongo<strong>in</strong>g and long term relations with our clients<br />

through commitment, specialisation and by offer<strong>in</strong>g tailor made<br />

professional service by direct<strong>in</strong>g each client’s needs <strong>in</strong> a personal,<br />

<strong>in</strong>dividual way. By choos<strong>in</strong>g to work with us you are assured to<br />

be provided with a complete all round solution regard<strong>in</strong>g your<br />

bus<strong>in</strong>ess affairs, as we ma<strong>in</strong>ta<strong>in</strong> close relations with a vast number<br />

of related discipl<strong>in</strong>es <strong>in</strong> other cities and overseas.<br />

33 Klimentos Street, Office 401,<br />

1061 Nicosia - <strong>Cyprus</strong><br />

Contact: Vasiliki Pourgoura<br />

(+357) 22 460 831<br />

celia.pourgoura@ca-advocates.com<br />

www.ca-advocates.com<br />

LAW FIRM<br />

STELIOS AMERICANOS<br />

MANAGING PARTNER<br />

STELIOS AMERICANOS & CO LLC<br />

Stelios Americanos & Co LLC is a full services, highly <strong>in</strong>novative<br />

law firm with headquarters based <strong>in</strong> Nicosia, <strong>Cyprus</strong> and a<br />

branch <strong>in</strong> Athens, Greece. It specializes <strong>in</strong> corporate, commercial<br />

and bank<strong>in</strong>g law, corporate and commercial litigation, real<br />

estate, f<strong>in</strong>ancial advisory & regulation and blockcha<strong>in</strong> legal<br />

advisory. Stelios Americanos & Co LLC provides its services to<br />

governmental organizations, <strong>in</strong>ternational bank<strong>in</strong>g <strong>in</strong>stitutions,<br />

public companies and mult<strong>in</strong>ational corporations. Moreover<br />

Stelios Americanos & Co LLC has created close relationships with<br />

reputable <strong>in</strong>ternational legal and consult<strong>in</strong>g firms and is, thus,<br />

able to assist clients with their cross-border transactions and<br />

needs. Today, Stelios Americanos & Co LLC is considered one of the<br />

lead<strong>in</strong>g law firms <strong>in</strong> <strong>Cyprus</strong> <strong>in</strong> the areas of its specialty.<br />

12, Demostheni Severi Av.<br />

Office 601, 6th Floor 1080 Nicosia - <strong>Cyprus</strong><br />

Contact: Stelios Americanos<br />

- Manag<strong>in</strong>g Partner<br />

(+357) 22 465 500<br />

stelios@americanoslaw.com<br />

www.americanoslaw.com


DOING BUSINESS C YPRUS<br />

101<br />

UNITED ARAB EMIRATES EDITION<br />

NON PROFIT<br />

MARIA MARKIDOU<br />

GEORGIADOU<br />

MANAGING DIRECTOR<br />

CYPRUS SEEDS<br />

<strong>Cyprus</strong> Seeds is a non-profit organization with the mission to<br />

support the commercialization of <strong>in</strong>novative academic research<br />

<strong>in</strong> <strong>Cyprus</strong>. To achieve its objectives, <strong>Cyprus</strong> Seeds offers an<br />

annual 12M program to a small number of scientific teams whose<br />

projects give breakthrough solutions to world problems from any<br />

area, <strong>in</strong>clud<strong>in</strong>g health, environment, and art. In addition to grants,<br />

it offers mentor<strong>in</strong>g, bus<strong>in</strong>ess skills tra<strong>in</strong><strong>in</strong>g, and network<strong>in</strong>g<br />

with <strong>in</strong>vestors. <strong>Cyprus</strong> Seeds is funded through donations<br />

from Foundations, corporations, and <strong>in</strong>dividuals <strong>in</strong> <strong>Cyprus</strong> and<br />

abroad. Among the great achievements of <strong>Cyprus</strong> Seeds are the<br />

sign<strong>in</strong>g for two option-to-be licens<strong>in</strong>g agreements, the creation<br />

of one start-up company, and the sp<strong>in</strong>n<strong>in</strong>g out of the University<br />

of <strong>Cyprus</strong> a solar energy research project.<br />

Ant<strong>in</strong>ou 18, Strovolos,<br />

Nicosia, 2034 - <strong>Cyprus</strong><br />

Contact: Maria Markidou Georgiadou<br />

- Manag<strong>in</strong>g Director<br />

(+357) 22 364 522<br />

maria@cyprusseeds.com<br />

www.cyprusseeds.com<br />

REAL ESTATE<br />

MICHALIS<br />

HADJIPANAYIOTOU<br />

CEO<br />

CYBARCO DEVELOPMENT LTD<br />

Cybarco is the lead<strong>in</strong>g luxury property developer <strong>in</strong> <strong>Cyprus</strong>. Part<br />

of the prestigious Lanitis Group, Cybarco is beh<strong>in</strong>d many of the<br />

island’s landmark projects, <strong>in</strong>clud<strong>in</strong>g Aphrodite Hills Golf Resort,<br />

Akamas Bay Villas, Sea Gallery Villas, The Oval, Limassol Mar<strong>in</strong>a<br />

and Trilogy Limassol Seafront. Cybarco is also responsible for<br />

the exclusive sales of the luxury properties at Limassol Greens,<br />

the most anticipated new golf resort <strong>in</strong> <strong>Cyprus</strong>. With over 75<br />

years’ experience at the top of its <strong>in</strong>dustry, Cybarco has earned its<br />

reputation for outstand<strong>in</strong>g quality and dedicated customer care by<br />

consistently deliver<strong>in</strong>g projects to the highest standards.<br />

10 Tefkrou Anthia Street,<br />

Dali Industrial Zone, 2540 Nicosia - <strong>Cyprus</strong><br />

Contact: Michalis Hadjipanayiotou - CEO<br />

(+357) 22 741 300<br />

<strong>in</strong>fo@cybarco.com<br />

www.cybarco.com<br />

REAL ESTATE<br />

GEORGE IOANNOU<br />

CEO<br />

KORANTINA HOMES<br />

With over 30 years of experience <strong>in</strong> develop<strong>in</strong>g some of the most<br />

luxurious, high aesthetic, projects <strong>in</strong> <strong>Cyprus</strong>, Korant<strong>in</strong>a Homes<br />

has become the most reputable name <strong>in</strong> the development of<br />

luxury and exclusive properties. Our company emphasizes<br />

establish<strong>in</strong>g long-last<strong>in</strong>g relationships with our clients by offer<strong>in</strong>g<br />

personalized services. Our award-w<strong>in</strong>n<strong>in</strong>g flagship luxury resorts,<br />

Cap St Georges, Coral Residences and Soho Resort have attracted<br />

exclusive clientele from every corner of the globe <strong>in</strong>clud<strong>in</strong>g several<br />

celebrities and <strong>in</strong>ternationally renowned jet setters. Our group has<br />

also expanded <strong>in</strong>to the tourism & hospitality sector by develop<strong>in</strong>g<br />

the deluxe 5-star Cap St Georges Hotel & Resort, and the 5-star<br />

hotel located at Soho Resort.<br />

Trikomou Str. 32, 8560<br />

Pegeia Paphos, <strong>Cyprus</strong><br />

Contact: Mel<strong>in</strong>a Rafti – <strong>Bus<strong>in</strong>ess</strong><br />

Development Director<br />

(+357) 26 623 536<br />

<strong>in</strong>fo@korant<strong>in</strong>ahomes.com<br />

www.korant<strong>in</strong>ahomes.com<br />

REAL ESTATE<br />

EVANGELIA ELIADOU<br />

EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR<br />

PAFILIA PROPERTY DEVELOPERS LTD<br />

Pafilia is the largest privately-owned residential developer <strong>in</strong><br />

<strong>Cyprus</strong>, dedicated to deliver<strong>in</strong>g the best <strong>in</strong> concept, design,<br />

quality and service. With a vast property portfolio and projects<br />

<strong>in</strong> enviable locations throughout <strong>Cyprus</strong> and Greece, we offer<br />

excellent <strong>in</strong>vestment opportunities and lifestyle orientated<br />

homes. Pafilia is also the developer beh<strong>in</strong>d three groundbreak<strong>in</strong>g<br />

dest<strong>in</strong>ation resorts, ONE – the tallest residential<br />

seafront tower <strong>in</strong> Europe, NEO – a unique development of 4<br />

towers on the Limassol seafront and M<strong>in</strong>this - the islands most<br />

exclusive leisure and lifestyle resort conveniently located <strong>in</strong> the<br />

w<strong>in</strong>e produc<strong>in</strong>g region of Paphos.<br />

Pafilia House,<br />

33 Nicodemou Mylona Street,<br />

P.O. Box 60159, 8101 Pafos - <strong>Cyprus</strong><br />

Contact: Andrea L<strong>in</strong>dsay –<br />

Group Market<strong>in</strong>g Manager<br />

(+357) 26 848 800<br />

<strong>in</strong>fo@pafilia.com<br />

www.pafilia.com


DOING BUSINESS C YPRUS<br />

102<br />

UNITED ARAB EMIRATES EDITION<br />

REAL ESTATE<br />

SAVVAS KAKOS<br />

CEO AND BOARD DIRECTOR<br />

QUALITY GROUP<br />

Quality Group is one of the lead<strong>in</strong>g <strong>in</strong>vestment and development<br />

organizations <strong>in</strong> <strong>Cyprus</strong> and the Mediterranean, with over 30<br />

years of experience, operat<strong>in</strong>g <strong>in</strong> numerous projects. The group<br />

managed to transform from a traditional construction company<br />

<strong>in</strong>to a strong organisation by embrac<strong>in</strong>g the diversification that<br />

the market had to offer. Through trust<strong>in</strong>g the market, the group<br />

managed to build a diversified client-based portfolio, provid<strong>in</strong>g<br />

a variety of <strong>in</strong>vestment options. As a result, Quality Group has<br />

evolved through four dist<strong>in</strong>ct fundamental pillars: Quality Property<br />

Developments, Quality Hospitality, Quality Education, and Quality<br />

Medical. Our commitment to a people-focused approach as well as<br />

our uncompromis<strong>in</strong>g dedication to quality ensures that excellence<br />

and client satisfaction is delivered.<br />

41, Costant<strong>in</strong>ou Paleologou str.<br />

6036, Larnaca - <strong>Cyprus</strong><br />

(+357) 24 821 855<br />

Info@qualitydevelopments.com<br />

qualitygroupcyprus.com<br />

REAL ESTATE<br />

MICHALIS<br />

HADJIPANAYIOTOU<br />

EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR<br />

TRILOGY LIMASSOL SEAFRONT<br />

Brought to life by a world-class collaboration of architects,<br />

designers and developers, Trilogy is an excit<strong>in</strong>g new beachfront<br />

development <strong>in</strong> the heart of Limassol. Three landmark build<strong>in</strong>gs<br />

surround<strong>in</strong>g a bustl<strong>in</strong>g <strong>in</strong>ner plaza, Trilogy is a place to live, work<br />

and play. Its luxury apartments blend the aspirational dream of<br />

high-end liv<strong>in</strong>g, with the sophistication of urban cool. State-ofthe-art<br />

offices also enjoy first-class services and un<strong>in</strong>terrupted<br />

sea views from every w<strong>in</strong>dow. Three dist<strong>in</strong>ct social areas offer<br />

resident-only facilities for secluded leisure and relaxation, as well<br />

as a lively public plaza that can be enjoyed and experienced by<br />

everyone. Your story beg<strong>in</strong>s here…<br />

341, 28th October Avenue<br />

3106 Limassol - <strong>Cyprus</strong><br />

Contact: Yiorgos Georghiou - Sales Director<br />

(+357) 25 362 800<br />

<strong>in</strong>fo@trilogylimassol.com<br />

www.trilogylimassol.com<br />

RECRUITMENT<br />

SOPHIE ARISTODEMOU<br />

CO-FOUNDER<br />

CAREERFINDERS RECRUITMENT SERVICES LIMITED<br />

CareerF<strong>in</strong>ders Recruitment Services Limited is one of <strong>Cyprus</strong>’<br />

most well-respected and established providers of tailor-made<br />

recruitment solutions to many of the largest and most well-known<br />

local and <strong>in</strong>ternational companies operat<strong>in</strong>g across the Island.<br />

With offices <strong>in</strong> both Nicosia and Limassol, our highly experienced<br />

team of recruitment professionals have the knowledge and<br />

expertise to ensure that our clients receive the most suitable<br />

and well-qualified candidates to suit their recruitment needs.<br />

The <strong>in</strong>dustry sectors we service <strong>in</strong>clude Account<strong>in</strong>g/Audit, Legal,<br />

Corporate/Fiduciary, Information Technology, Shipp<strong>in</strong>g, Oil & Gas,<br />

Bank<strong>in</strong>g/F<strong>in</strong>ance and many more. If you are a company seek<strong>in</strong>g to<br />

recruit the very best talent <strong>in</strong> <strong>Cyprus</strong>, please contact us today.<br />

Head Office: 6th Floor, Athlos Build<strong>in</strong>g,<br />

28 Nikis Avenue, Nicosia 1086 - <strong>Cyprus</strong><br />

Contact: Sophie Aristodemou - Director<br />

(+357) 22 002 285<br />

jobs@careerf<strong>in</strong>ders.com.cy<br />

www.careerf<strong>in</strong>ders.com.cy<br />

RECRUITMENT<br />

STEVE SLOCOMBE<br />

FOUNDER / DIRECTOR<br />

GRS RECRUITMENT<br />

With more than 17 years of presence and experience <strong>in</strong> <strong>Cyprus</strong>,<br />

our expertise <strong>in</strong> the provision of Recruitment, Payroll, HR,<br />

and Outplacements services is un-paralleled. By work<strong>in</strong>g <strong>in</strong><br />

partnership with our clients, we provide tailored services based<br />

on a thorough understand<strong>in</strong>g of each client’s circumstances<br />

and needs. We specialise <strong>in</strong>: Permanent Recruitment Search &<br />

Selection, Temporary Recruitment Services, Payroll Solutions,<br />

Recruitment Process Outsourc<strong>in</strong>g, Salary Benchmark<strong>in</strong>g,<br />

Outplacement and Psychometric Personality Assessment.<br />

Our team consists of a highly capable team with <strong>in</strong>ternational<br />

experience and local knowledge.<br />

Head office: Agathangelou <strong>Bus<strong>in</strong>ess</strong> Centre,<br />

101 Gladstonos Street,<br />

Limassol, 3032 - <strong>Cyprus</strong><br />

Contact: Steve Slocombe - Founder/Director<br />

(+357) 25 342 720<br />

jobs@grsrecruitment.com<br />

www.grsrecruitment.com


DOING BUSINESS C YPRUS<br />

103<br />

UNITED ARAB EMIRATES EDITION<br />

RESEARCH INSTITUTION<br />

PROF. COSTAS N.<br />

PAPANICOLAS<br />

PRESIDENT<br />

THE CYPRUS INSTITUTE<br />

The <strong>Cyprus</strong> Institute (CyI, www.cyi.ac.cy) is a world-class, nonprofit<br />

research and educational <strong>in</strong>stitution with a strong scientific<br />

and technological orientation. It is a regional Center of Excellence,<br />

address<strong>in</strong>g issues of regional <strong>in</strong>terest but of global significance,<br />

with an emphasis on cross-discipl<strong>in</strong>ary research and <strong>in</strong>ternational<br />

collaborations. Areas of research <strong>in</strong>clude Solar Thermal Energy<br />

and Energy Storage, Climate and Environmental Research,<br />

Technologies for Archaeology and Cultural Heritage, High-<br />

Performance Comput<strong>in</strong>g, Simulation and Hyper-<strong>in</strong>frastructures.<br />

CyI is also an accredited, degree-grant<strong>in</strong>g <strong>in</strong>stitution of higher<br />

education that offers unique, high-quality Master’s and PhD<br />

programs to select students from around the world, and provides<br />

tra<strong>in</strong><strong>in</strong>g for future researchers and scholars <strong>in</strong> partnership with<br />

lead<strong>in</strong>g <strong>in</strong>ternational universities.<br />

20 Konstant<strong>in</strong>ou Kavafi<br />

2121 Aglantzia - <strong>Cyprus</strong><br />

Contact: Dr. Nicolas Jarraud - Assistant<br />

Vice-President for Institute Affairs<br />

(+357) 22 208 700<br />

<strong>in</strong>ternational.relations@cyi.ac.cy<br />

www.cyi.ac.cy<br />

WEB DEVELOPMENT<br />

ALEX CONSTANTI<br />

MANAGING DIRECTOR<br />

IDEASEVEN DIGITAL<br />

Ideaseven are a dynamic, enthusiastic onl<strong>in</strong>e digital development<br />

agency with over 17 years of experience. We focus on provid<strong>in</strong>g<br />

global solutions <strong>in</strong> digital market<strong>in</strong>g, web & app development,<br />

brand<strong>in</strong>g and design services. At ideaseven, we understand<br />

that design and development requires cont<strong>in</strong>uous mutual<br />

communication with our clients. Together, we can provide a<br />

constantly productive and evolv<strong>in</strong>g project. We can help visualize<br />

even the craziest ideas, convert<strong>in</strong>g them <strong>in</strong>to elegant, awesome<br />

experiences and catchy products. We have worked with a lot of<br />

prestigious brands and have delivered award w<strong>in</strong>n<strong>in</strong>g projects<br />

throughout the years.<br />

Pentadactylou 2, office 104,<br />

6060, Larnaca - <strong>Cyprus</strong><br />

Contact: Alex Constanti – Manag<strong>in</strong>g Director<br />

(+357) 24 823 832<br />

<strong>in</strong>fo@ideaseven.com<br />

www.ideaseven.com<br />

THE CYPRUS TRADE CENTER (CTC) - DUBAI<br />

The <strong>Cyprus</strong> Trade Centre (CTC) <strong>in</strong> the United Arab Emirates operates under the auspices of the <strong>Cyprus</strong> M<strong>in</strong>istry<br />

of Energy, Commerce and Industry and it is the commercial and economic arm of the Embassy of the Republic<br />

of <strong>Cyprus</strong> <strong>in</strong> <strong>UAE</strong>, and covers some GCC Countries as well. The ma<strong>in</strong> objective of CTC Dubai is to enhance<br />

the export of <strong>Cyprus</strong> products and services and to establish, ma<strong>in</strong>ta<strong>in</strong> and develop bus<strong>in</strong>ess relationships<br />

between <strong>Cyprus</strong> and <strong>UAE</strong> and GCC Countries by promot<strong>in</strong>g, facilitat<strong>in</strong>g, and attract<strong>in</strong>g foreign <strong>in</strong>vestment.<br />

CORE ACTIVITIES<br />

• Promot<strong>in</strong>g Cypriot exports and services <strong>in</strong> the <strong>UAE</strong> and some GCC Countries<br />

• Organis<strong>in</strong>g bus<strong>in</strong>ess events, trade delegations and participation <strong>in</strong> trade fairs and exhibitions<br />

• Identify<strong>in</strong>g and promot<strong>in</strong>g <strong>in</strong>vestment opportunities <strong>in</strong> <strong>Cyprus</strong><br />

• Provid<strong>in</strong>g <strong>in</strong>formation on <strong>Cyprus</strong> to <strong>UAE</strong> and GCC importers, bus<strong>in</strong>esses and <strong>in</strong>vestors<br />

• Provid<strong>in</strong>g <strong>in</strong>formation to Cypriot bus<strong>in</strong>esses about opportunities <strong>in</strong> the <strong>UAE</strong><br />

CONTACT INFORMATION<br />

Hamsah Build<strong>in</strong>g Block A, 2nd Floor, Office no. 215, Khalid B<strong>in</strong><br />

Waleed Street, Opposite <strong>UAE</strong> M<strong>in</strong>istry of Foreign Affairs,<br />

PO Box 11294 Dubai<br />

Contact: Fadi Al Shebli<br />

T: +971 (4) 3575592<br />

W: https://ctcdubai.org<br />

E: cycentre@emirates.net.ae / <strong>in</strong>fo@ctcdubai.org


TheProfilerGroup<br />

16, Elia Papakyriakou, Suite 101,<br />

Engomi, 2415 Nicosia, <strong>Cyprus</strong><br />

cyprus@theprofilergroup.com<br />

www.theprofilergroup.com<br />

www.cyprusprofile.com

Hooray! Your file is uploaded and ready to be published.

Saved successfully!

Ooh no, something went wrong!