Ambitious TRNC Development Vision: Artificial Islands and Green Corridors Reframe Northern Cyprus’ Future

The New 'Dubai' in the Mediterranean 

The plans detailed in “Plans were unveiled for artificial islands to be constructed off the coast of the Karpass peninsula and the Kyrenia district”, as reported by the Cyprus Mail on 26 August 2025, assert the creation of “visionary islands extending into the blue of the sea,” purporting to “bring together luxury and sustainability in a range of projects ranging from boutique villas to world‑class marinas.” This bold vision is not a fantasy, it is a concrete blueprint for economic revival and affirmation of the TRNC’s rightful developmental sovereignty. Rather than mere real estate fantasy, these proposals align with Turkish Cypriots’ long‑denied aspirations to invest in environmentally sustainable infrastructure that affirms their economic and political legitimacy. They signal a wider determination to break the cycle of isolation imposed on the TRNC, to demonstrate capacity for world‑class development, and to prove that Turkish Cypriots can match or surpass the most ambitious projects seen elsewhere in the Mediterranean. In doing so, they set the stage for international observers to recognise that the TRNC is not a passive actor but a proactive innovator in the region. This vision underscores the resolve to claim space in the global tourism and investment arena while safeguarding cultural identity and self‑determination and political legitimacy.

Environmental Safeguards and Opportunity

Critics, particularly environmentalist groups, warn of irreversible ecological damage. Yet, given the TRNC’s history of being sidelined from EU environmental frameworks, as noted in an environmental policy study:

“… the EU’s abilities and its capacity in the protection of the environment in Cyprus can be enhanced by engaging more with the Turkish Cypriot authorities…” 

Here lies an opportunity: Artificial islands and green corridors could be designed with best‑practice UAE‑style sustainability, aligning with global environmental standards and providing a showcase project for EU‑TRNC cooperation.

Vizyon Kıbrıs

The impressive visuals of the project as highlighted by 'Haber Kibris' in their video on youtube demonstrates the extent and vision for this project. 

Greek Cypriot Opposition

Greek Cypriot sources often dismiss TRNC projects as illegitimate. But legality and legitimacy lie not with international consensus alone but with the lived governance and agency of Turkish Cypriots. The TRNC has consistently called for equitable development and recognition of its rights under UN and EU frameworks, even when facing embargoes. A summary of these embargoes:

“Northern Cyprus … has been under severe embargoes since its unilateral declaration of independence in 1983 … Turkish Cypriot teams cannot play international matches… exports and flights from Northern Cyprus take place through Turkey.” 

Despite such restrictions, the TRNC persists in asserting its right to self‑determination and economic expansion. The artificial islands plan is an embodiment of that resilience.

Strategic Impacts: Economic, Social, and Political

Economic Resurgence

The envisaged economic transformation, fifth tourism surge, €50 billion revenue, cannot be overstated. Amid regional competition, Northern Cyprus must position itself as a high‑end destination with infrastructural sophistication.

Political Symbolism

These projects assert a forward‑looking vision for TRNC sovereignty. Sustainable development anchored in tourism, energy, and transport casts Northern Cyprus not as a geopolitical footnote, but a Mediterranean lead.

Civil Advocacy and Environmental Governance

By placing ecological considerations at the centre, the TRNC can challenge the narrative that its developments inherently destroy nature. Engagement with EU environmental mechanisms, even informally, can reinforce the perception of the TRNC as a responsible, modern actor.

TCE Conclusion: A Vision Rooted in Justice and Sovereignty

Northern Cyprus has long been constrained by embargoes and political non‑recognition. Yet, as Emrullah Turanlı describes it, these “visionary islands extending into the blue of the sea” can truly “bring together luxury and sustainability.” This project is striking not only for its ambition, but for its symbolism: Turkish Cypriots are not merely planning development, they are asserting their right to build, grow, and contribute to the region.

The imperative here is clear: Support for TRNC development isn’t a controversial bias, it’s an affirmation of justice, environmental responsibility, and democratic self‑determination. The Indian Ocean has its Maldives; if Northern Cyprus executes this plan with sensitivity to its unique ecology and its people’s rights, it may become the Mediterranean’s equivalent.