Egypt welcomed 15.7 million tourists in 2024, achieving a record for inbound tourism despite ongoing geopolitical challenges in the region, according to Sherif Fathy, Minister of Tourism and Antiquities. The announcement came during Fathy’s participation in a meeting of the Senate Committee on Culture, Tourism, Antiquities, and Media, where he detailed the sector’s performance and strategic outlook.
In a statement issued by the Ministry of Tourism, Fathy credited the achievement to coordinated efforts aimed at sustaining growth in Egypt’s tourism industry. He highlighted that the ministry’s strategy focuses on promoting Egypt’s diverse attractions and resources, positioning the country as a leading global destination for cultural and heritage tourism. The minister underscored plans to expand Egypt’s tourism infrastructure, revealing the addition of 40,000 new hotel rooms to meet growing demand.
He also announced the creation of an Investment Opportunities Bank, which will compile and promote a unified map of tourism investment opportunities to domestic and international stakeholders. Fathy outlined ongoing initiatives to develop and enhance Egypt’s tourism products, aiming to attract a broader range of visitors. Efforts include introducing new tourism styles, integrating diverse offerings, and executing a comprehensive marketing campaign to highlight Egypt’s rich cultural heritage and modern attractions.
The minister reiterated the government’s focus on sustaining growth by improving tourism services and diversifying experiences to cater to various market segments. He emphasized the importance of strengthening partnerships with international operators and investors to ensure the continued expansion of the sector. Egypt’s tourism sector has demonstrated resilience and growth amid external pressures, reinforcing its role as a key driver of economic development.
The ministry’s forward-looking strategies aim to sustain this momentum while enhancing Egypt’s global appeal as a top destination. Fathy concluded by affirming Egypt’s commitment to preserving its cultural and historical heritage while modernizing infrastructure to support long-term growth in tourism. The ministry’s approach reflects a balance between conservation and development, ensuring Egypt remains competitive in the global tourism market. – By MENA Newswire News Desk.