Egypt has been intensifying efforts to consolidate its presence in Africa through strategic investments and partnerships in the tourism sector. The government is prioritising private sector engagements in projects both at home and across the continent, aiming to boost mutual economic growth and enhance the visibility of African tourism on the global scene.
During a recent high-level meeting in Cairo, Minister of Tourism and Antiquities Sherif Fathi held discussions with Oumar Sylla, Director for North Africa and the Horn of Africa at the International Finance Corporation (IFC). The talks focused on fostering collaboration to bolster private sector participation in Egypt’s tourism sector, as well as exploring opportunities for joint initiatives in Africa.
Minister Fathi emphasised Egypt’s commitment to achieving tourism sustainability, transforming the sector into an environmentally friendly industry, and promoting eco-conscious facilities, including hotels and diving centers.
“We are keen on cooperating with the IFC to ensure that our tourism sector grows in a manner aligning with global sustainability standards,” he stated.
Recognising the potential of Africa’s burgeoning tourism market, the Egyptian government is actively working to increase investments on the continent while simultaneously promoting its own rich cultural and historical attractions. A key component in promoting Egypt as a premier destination for African tourists is religious tourism initiatives such as the Holy Family Trail.
The Holy Family Trail features 25 significant sites across eight governorates, covering a distance of 3,500 kilometers. It traces the journey of Virgin Mary, Joseph, and the infant Jesus through Egypt and includes churches, monasteries, and Coptic icons of immense historical and religious significance. This initiative has already attracted growing interest from African tourists and is expected to further strengthen cultural ties between Egypt and its neighbours.
The IFC expressed readiness to collaborate with Egypt in advancing tourism projects. Sylla highlighted the importance of private-sector involvement in driving economic activity in both Egypt and other African nations.
“Our cooperation with Egypt will focus on providing technical expertise and consultations to support tourism programs and encourage greater private sector participation,” Sylla said.
Egypt’s efforts to enhance its tourism sector have already yielded great results. In 2024, the country welcomed a record-breaking 15.7 million tourists, despite regional challenges. The opening of the Grand Egyptian Museum this July is expected to further bolster tourism numbers, particularly in the hotel sector, to accommodate the anticipated influx of visitors.
Egypt’s commitment to promoting African tourism will take center stage at the 2025 Africa Tourism Fair, scheduled to be held in Sharm el-Sheikh on May 22–23.
Under the theme “Sun of Tourism,” the event will serve as a strategic platform to integrate Africa into the global tourism network and foster partnerships among investors, travel agents, hotel operators, and tourism destinations.
Organised by GMT Fuarcılık, the fair is expected to attract over 5,000 professional visitors from more than 70 countries, alongside 100 leading tourism brands. The event will feature over 10,000 in-person business meetings, providing a unique opportunity for industry leaders to share insights, explore new trends, and establish sustainable partnerships.
The exhibition will also highlight Africa’s cultural heritage and sustainable tourism initiatives, offering a platform to launch new projects that contribute to the continent’s economic development.
