Real Estate Purchases by Israelis in Southern Cyprus and the 'Carob Gardens' Project Created Controversy

Land and real estate purchases by Israelis in the Greek Cypriot Administration of Southern Cyprus (GCASC) continue. The Carob Gardens project, developed on an area of ​​approximately 60 thousand square meters in the Zigi region between Larnaca and Limassol and described as the "first Jewish community in Cyprus" in its promotion, became a subject of discussion.

60 THOUSAND SQUARE METERS OF LAND, MORE THAN 250 VILLAS

It was reported that the developer of the project acquired more than 60 thousand square meters of land in the region and that the campus will be built in stages. Upon completion of the project, it is planned to include more than 250 flats and villas in the region.

In addition to residences, the campus is expected to include a Jewish community center, a synagogue, a religious purification pool known as mikvah, a kosher kitchen, a market and event areas. In the first phase, it is planned to build 56 flats, as well as common swimming pools, sports center and children's playgrounds.

NEW REGULATION IS ON THE AGENDA

The Greek administration is working on changing the current legislation for third-country citizens to purchase real estate. It has been reported that Greek political parties have also prepared different legislative proposals to control land sales to foreigners and limit them in some regions.

It was stated that the regulations on the agenda especially cover sales around critical infrastructures, regions close to the ceasefire line, coastal areas, large pieces of land and agricultural lands.

REAL ESTATE PURCHASES OF FOREIGNERS INCREASED

According to reports in the Greek media, the share of foreigners in real estate sales in Southern Cyprus exceeded one quarter of total sales in 2024. It was reported that among the third country citizens who purchased real estate, there were Lebanese, Russian and Chinese citizens, as well as Israelis. Israelis invest in real estate, especially in the Larnaca, Limassol and Paphos regions.