Egypt’s Minister of Tourism and Antiquities, Sherif Fathy, chaired the Board of Directors meeting for the Tourism and Antiquities Support Fund today at the Ministry’s headquarters in the New Administrative Capital.
The Minister took the opportunity to formally welcome Dr. Sherif Gamal Abdel-Jawad, the new Secretary-General of the Tourism and Antiquities Support Fund, in his first board meeting since assuming the role following the recent ministerial decision. The Minister expressed his happiness for Dr. Abdel-Jawad’s appointment and wished him success in his new responsibilities within the Ministry.
Approval of Previous Meeting Minutes and Strategic Discussions
During the session, the board approved the minutes of the previous meeting, followed by an in-depth discussion on the aviation incentives policies introduced by the Ministry to support and increase the flow of international tourists to Egypt. The Ministry’s aviation incentive program, which has proven to be pivotal in boosting Egypt’s tourism sector, was presented with updates on its current status. The program will remain in effect until the end of April 2025, with a review of the program’s results from 2024.
The presentation highlighted a notable increase in passenger numbers, flight frequencies, and seating capacity, even amid regional geopolitical challenges. Moreover, the tourism sector achieved a growth rate of 7% in 2024, underlining the success of these strategic initiatives.
Extension of Aviation Incentive Program for Summer 2025
After careful deliberations, the board approved the extension of the aviation incentive program into the upcoming summer season. The program will now run from May through October 2025, with several adjustments made to ensure its effectiveness and continued positive impact on Egypt’s tourism industry.
Approval of Budget for 2025/2026
Another key decision taken during the meeting was the approval of the projected budget for the Tourism and Antiquities Support Fund for the fiscal year 2025/2026. The budget was reviewed and adopted, outlining expected revenues and expenditures for the year ahead. This budget will further enhance the Ministry’s efforts to boost Egypt’s tourism industry and support its vital cultural heritage sectors.
Dr. Sherif Gamal Abdel-Jawad’s appointment as the new Secretary-General of the Tourism and Antiquities Support Fund was also a focal point of the meeting. Dr. Abdel-Jawad, previously a Senior Director at the Ministry of Finance, brings with him extensive experience in financial management, particularly in the public sector, which will be invaluable in his new role.
