Egypt’s tourism sector witnessed a notable influx of visitors from the Arab world in 2024, with the Gulf region accounting for a substantial 70% of the total arrivals, according to Dr. Wael Zayer, a key member of the Egyptian Federation of Tourist Chambers. Saudi Arabia, the UAE, and Kuwait emerged as the top contributors, reaffirming Egypt’s position as a prime destination for Gulf tourists.
Gulf Dominance:
Gulf countries have long been a cornerstone of Egypt’s tourism industry, and 2024 continued that trend. Saudi Arabia, the UAE, and Kuwait led the charge, underscoring the region’s significance as a major source of tourists to Egypt. The affluent Gulf market remains a key driver, with visitors seeking Egypt’s rich cultural heritage, luxurious resorts, and historical landmarks.
North Africa on the Rise:
While the Gulf led the charge, Zayer noted that tourism from North African countries—Morocco, Algeria, and Tunisia—saw positive growth in 2024 compared to the previous year. However, despite the uptick, the numbers still fall short of the sector’s ambitions for greater regional engagement. To address this gap, discussions are ongoing among government entities to streamline the visa application process for North African tourists, which could further boost travel from these countries.
Ambitious Growth for 2025:
Looking ahead, Zayer is optimistic about the prospects for Arab tourism to Egypt in 2025. Based on current and future booking trends, he anticipates a significant boost in arrivals. Egypt’s tourism sector, both public and private, is targeting a 100% increase in the number of Arab tourists in 2025, compared to the previous year. This ambitious goal reflects broader efforts to expand the country’s tourism base and enhance its appeal across the Arab world.
Senate Review of Heritage Preservation:
In parallel, Egypt’s government continues to face scrutiny regarding the preservation of its extensive cultural heritage. The Egyptian Senate recently discussed the government’s restoration practices, following a request by Representative Ragia El-Feki, who called for a review of the policies and technical standards governing the preservation of Egypt’s historic sites.
El-Feki underscored the significance of Egypt’s heritage as a key element of national identity and cultural memory. The challenges of maintaining these sites, which are vulnerable to environmental and human factors, remain a priority for the government. She also pointed to concerns over the use of outdated restoration methods and the need for stricter guidelines to protect the architectural integrity of Egypt’s antiquities.
Global Heritage Recognition:
Egypt remains home to seven UNESCO World Heritage Sites, including iconic landmarks such as the Pyramids of Giza, the historic center of Cairo, and the ancient city of Thebes. These sites are integral not only to Egypt’s cultural identity but also to its international reputation as a leading tourism destination. As the nation’s tourism sector continues to recover and grow, protecting these invaluable assets is crucial to ensuring Egypt’s continued success in the global tourism market.
