Meet the man behind the vision
Not all great journeys start with a clear plan — some begin with instinct, perseverance, and an eye for opportunity. That’s exactly how George Marinou, founder of Marinakis Property Developers, began his path in real estate. A self-made entrepreneur with a diverse background, that didn’t set out to become a leading figure in Cyprus’ property market — but his natural curiosity, relentless drive, and ability to adapt led him to build one of the most trusted development companies in Larnaca.
What started by chance quickly became a passion. Drawn to the creativity and complexity of property development, Mr. Marinou turned early challenges into a foundation for long-term success. Today, real estate is part of who he is.
What was the vision behind founding Marinakis Property Developers, and how has the company evolved since then?
For me, real estate development has always been more than just business — it’s a responsibility. From selecting the right land to delivering the final property, every step requires care, vision, and dedication.
Our goal has always been to create homes and investments people are proud of, built with quality and integrity. The greatest reward is seeing satisfied, smiling clients when we hand over the keys. That’s what drives us — and what has shaped Marinakis into the trusted name it is today.
Looking back at your career, what would you say has been the most defining moment for you and the company?
There were many defining moments, but one of the most important was understanding how critical it is to grow at the right pace — always in alignment with market conditions. Making smart, well-timed decisions and maintaining strong financial discipline have been essential. That mindset helped us build a solid reputation for trustworthiness and resilience.
Our name today reflects decades of consistent work and client satisfaction. I consider our reputation as one of our company’s strongest assets.
What has been the biggest challenge in the company’s journey, and how did you overcome it?
The financial crisis between 2010–2015 was without doubt one of the most difficult periods. Buyers vanished, and the banking sector was on the verge of collapse. Many developers didn’t make it through that time. What helped us survive was our conservative approach to expansion and development. We moved forward carefully, always prepared for downturns. It was a painful period, but we came out stronger and more focused on creating value with each and every project.
Real Estate Market in Cyprus
Cyprus, and particularly Larnaca, has seen growing interest from property investors. What makes Cyprus an attractive market, and how has Larnaca evolved in recent years?
Cyprus has always been a highly attractive destination for property buyers — whether they’re seeking a holiday home, a permanent relocation after retirement, or even as an investment.
In recent years, ongoing geopolitical changes in the region have also positioned Cyprus as a safe and stable investment hub. We’re seeing a growing number of international buyers who don’t just want to enjoy a better quality of life, but also want to secure reliable income through property investments. The climate, hospitality, and accessibility of the island — especially with Larnaca as the main point of entry via its international airport — only enhance this appeal.
Larnaca is undergoing significant transformation. Major infrastructure upgrades, the redevelopment of the marina and port area, new beachfront walkways, and investment in green spaces are elevating the city’s overall value and attractiveness.
Signature Projects
Marigate Larnaca is a standout project for Marinakis. What was your vision behind this high-rise development, and how does it address the growing needs of today’s luxury buyers?
Marigate Larnaca is located in a truly strategic position— right at the entrance of the upcoming Larnaca Port-Marina development and next to the new tourist and commercial zone that is likely to emerge as a result of this transformation. We saw a clear gap in the market for true luxury living in Larnaca: large, high-end residences that offer both exclusivity and functionality.
Our vision was to create something iconic — a high rise residential building with only nine residences, each occupying an entire floor. These are not typical apartments; they are sky homes, each designed with the space, finishes, and privacy that today’s discerning buyers expect.
The project offers unobstructed views across the entire Larnaca Bay, creating a truly unique visual experience. It also provides easy access to the extended coastal promenade of Larnaca Bay, which will connect the majority of the city’s seafront — stretching nearly from one end of the city center to the other. This places Marigate at the most prominent and promising point in Larnaca’s future urban landscape.
What features and innovations make Marigate Larnaca stand out from other luxury properties on the market today?
The word “luxury” is often overused in our industry — and sometimes, misused. At Marigate, we made sure the term actually means something. Every detail, from the materials to the layout and features, has been chosen carefully to provide real, tangible value.
Each apartment includes three spacious bedrooms, full-floor layouts with private elevator access, and panoramic views of the sea, port, and city. The materials were selected by our in-house interior designers who focused on timeless elegance rather than cost-cutting. You’ll find custom Italian kitchens, underfloor heating, smart home systems, energy-efficient solutions, and premium aluminium curtain wall systems — all designed to deliver both beauty and performance.
It’s not just about what looks good, it’s about how the space makes you feel. The double-height ceilings in the living areas, the jacuzzis on each private terrace, and the thoughtful separation of private and shared spaces are all designed to elevate the lifestyle of every resident.
With the luxury property market becoming increasingly competitive, how does Marinakis maintain its reputation for quality and innovation?
Consistency and integrity are everything. At Marinakis, we never chase trends or shortcuts. We design and build properties that we’d be proud to live in ourselves. That means taking the time to choose the right locations, working with trusted professionals, and paying attention to every single detail.
In an industry where the term “luxury” is often used loosely, our goal is to bring meaning back to it. Marigate Larnaca isn’t just a luxury project on paper — it’s a carefully crafted residence that reflects our company’s core values: exceptional quality, lasting design, and respect for the people who trust us with one of the most important decisions of their lives.
Challenges and Achievements
Looking back, is there a particular project or milestone in your career that stands out as especially meaningful to you, personally or professionally?
Throughout my career, I’ve had many defining moments. In the beginning, transitioning from developing small plots to acquiring my own land was a major step forward. From there, I moved on to building two homes simultaneously, followed by my first apartment building — and today, we’re developing entire neighborhoods. Every step felt like achieving something that once seemed impossible — and each one taught me something new.
One particularly memorable experience was in the early 1990s, when I travelled alone to Russia. I personally met with businesspeople and introduced them to Cyprus and our developments—using only VHS tapes to showcase our work. That moment taught me the value of perseverance, adaptability, and the power of taking bold initiative.
Marinakis Property Developers has had a positive impact on the local community. How do you see the company contributing to the city’s growth?
One of my personal goals has always been to see Larnaca grow in a way that’s thoughtful and well-planned. Unfortunately, I still see developments being approved and executed without adequate vision or urban planning. Roads are too narrow, some buildings lack architectural oversight, and prime seafront land is being used without proper long-term consideration. I believe in a more sustainable, better-designed city — as we’ve seen in parts of Spain, where coastal zones have been developed with care and consistency over time, creating green and accessible public spaces.
At Marinakis, we strive to reflect that philosophy in every project we take on. We choose our locations strategically, with a focus on aesthetics, sustainability, and long-term value. Our goal is for our developments to elevate — not burden — the urban landscape, contributing meaningfully to Larnaca’s future.
The Future of Marinakis Property Developers
What new projects is Marinakis currently working on, and what can we expect in the near future?
We currently have several projects under development, while others are in the planning phase. What matters most to me is seeing the company grow steadily and responsibly, in full alignment with the needs of the market.
With the company’s success, are there plans for expansion beyond Cyprus?
A successful entrepreneur must never remain static. We’re always open to exploring opportunities beyond Cyprus. What matters is having a clear strategy and remaining agile. The market changes quickly, and it’s important to be ready to pivot when necessary. That said, Cyprus remains our home and our foundation — and we are proud to continue investing in real estate here.
Client Experience and Satisfaction
At Marinakis, client satisfaction seems to be a top priority. How do you ensure that each client’s needs are met, and what makes working with Marinakis a unique experience?
This is one of the most important aspects of our work. We understand that for many people, buying a property is one of the biggest decisions of their lives. That’s why we treat every project—and every client—with respect and responsibility. Everyone involved, from our sales teams to our construction crews and even our cleaners, is made to feel as though the property they’re working on is their own. When your team feels that kind of ownership and pride, the results speak for themselves.
Many of your clients return to buy again. From your perspective, what makes them come back?
We are fortunate to have second- and even third-generation clients—families who continue to trust us, not just with purchases, but for advice and support long after the sale. For us, it’s never just about closing a deal. It’s about building relationships. When a client chooses us over dozens of other options, we feel a personal obligation to meet and exceed their expectations. That trust is sacred to us, and it’s the reason our clients keep returning.
Advice for Future Investors
What advice would you give to someone considering investing in the Cyprus property market?
The most important advice I can offer is this: research who you’re working with. Look beyond the surface—beyond glossy brochures and showrooms. Choose partners with a proven track record, a reputation for integrity, and a commitment to quality. The real estate market offers great opportunities, but success comes from making informed, careful decisions.
