Moustafa Allam
Egypt has been a remarkable destination on the global tourism map for centuries, boasting famous historical sites, stunning landscapes, and a rich culture. Iconic landmarks like the Pyramids of Giza, Old Cairo, and the Red Sea beaches attract millions of visitors each year.
Over the past four years, the Egyptian tourism sector has fully recovered from the challenges of the pandemic. Indeed, it also reached all-time highs in both visitor numbers and revenues.
Egypt’s tourism sector reached record-breaking levels in 2024, welcoming around 15.78 million foreign tourists. The country generated $15.3 billion in tourism revenue, a significant rise compared to $7.2 billion in 2014.
As tourism plays a vital role in Egypt’s job market, it provides various jobs, including hotel staff, tour guides, transport operators, and small business owners. In 2024, tourism provided about 2.7 million jobs, with projections estimating this figure will rise to 2.9 million in 2025.
8.7 million tourists in Q1
During the first quarter of 2025, Egypt welcomed 8.7 million tourists, according to the Ministry of Tourism and Antiquities. The country expects to receive 30 million visitors by the end of 2025.
Regional instability is a key driver for this growth. With neighbouring countries facing security and safety issues, Egypt is a secure, stable destination for travelers. Egypt is a suitable choice for tourists from Europe, the Gulf region, and Asia for its accessibility, hospitality, and cultural wealth.
Another reason is the exchange rate. Tourists from Europe, the Gulf, and other regions find that their foreign currencies go further in Egypt, making travel, accommodation, and entertainment more reasonable.
Keeping this leap, the government has recently launched a digital campaign, in collaboration with WEGO, a leading travel and booking platform. The campaign aims to attract at least one million Arab tourists by mid-2026.
The campaign comes with an integrated media plan, including video ads on YouTube, Google search ads, and other promotional content in Arabic and English.
Also, Egypt is attempting to diversify its tourism areas. It works on growing eco-tourism, adventure tourism, and medical tourism. New destinations in places like Siwa Oasis, Alamein, and South Sinai are being marketed to global travelers for experiences beyond traditional sites.
Egypt is doing its best to position itself as a key cornerstone in the region in every sector. It had taken solid steps in the tourism sector. It exerted more effort to promote cultural heritage and ensure visitor safety.
