Egyptian tourism recorded an unprecedented historic surge in 2025, welcoming approximately 19 million tourists.
This represents a 21 percent growth rate compared to 2024—an exceptional performance that quadruples the five percent global average growth estimated by UN Tourism.
This milestone proudly signals Egypt’s return to the forefront of the international tourism landscape and solidifies its position as a global leader in cultural tourism.
These figures are a direct result of a structural transformation within the sector.
Over the past few years, the state has implemented a comprehensive strategy centered on infrastructure development, the modernization of museums and archaeological sites, and the enhancement of the visitor experience.
Furthermore, the expansion of international flight networks and a string of high-profile archaeological discoveries have refocused global attention on Egyptian civilization as a perennial source of human inspiration.
Minister of Tourism and Antiquities Sherif Fathy, stated that the 2025 results are a significant achievement, reflecting the Egyptian destination’s ability to compete in a highly rigorous global market.
He attributed this success to the nation’s prevailing security and stability, as well as a clear vision aimed at diversifying tourism offerings, with a strategic focus on cultural tourism as Egypt’s primary competitive advantage.
The minister noted that Egypt’s growth significantly outpaces the global average, reflecting international travelers’ confidence in the Egyptian destination. He emphasized Egypt’s ability to offer an integrated experience that blends ancient history, high-quality service, and accessibility, alongside a unique geographical diversity across its various locales.
Minister of Civil Aviation, Sameh al-Hefny, further explained that 2025 witnessed record-breaking growth in tourist charter flights, which surged by 32 percent.
Direct flights were operated from 193 cities worldwide to Egyptian destinations, a clear indicator of the expanding international flight network and rising demand from both emerging and traditional markets.
The fruit of many efforts
Cairo, Hurghada, Sharm El-Sheikh, and Marsa Alam led the list of busiest airports for tourist arrivals. This reflects the success of state efforts to modernize airport infrastructure and enhance operational efficiency, while showcasing a diverse tourism product capable of catering to a wide range of traveler demographics.
Tourism expert and member of the Chamber of Tourism Companies’ General Assembly, Mohamed Hassan, emphasized that this success is the result of multifaceted efforts.
Chief among these is the extensive infrastructure development that has streamlined access to Egyptian tourist attractions. Major global events and festivals have also played a significant role in enhancing Egypt’s international brand image.
Furthermore, robust security measures have provided a tangible sense of safety for travelers on the ground.
A key pillar of this success is the strategy to diversify destinations.
The New Alamein City has emerged as a prime example, recording an unprecedented 450 percent surge in charter flight traffic. Supported by modern infrastructure and integrated facilities, the city has rapidly evolved into one of the most prominent rising destinations on the international map.
On the cultural tourism front, Chief Tourist Guide Nasser Al-Nubi, reported significant growth in foreign visitor numbers at archaeological sites and museums.
Excluding the National Museum of Egyptian Civilization (NMEC) and the Grand Egyptian Museum (GEM), these sites welcomed approximately 18.6 million tourists in 2025—a 33.5 percent increase compared to 2024.
This reflects a global fascination with Egyptian civilization, bolstered by improved visitor trails and the opening of new sites to the public.
Al-Nubi added that this growth is driven by comprehensive restoration projects, the redevelopment of areas surrounding archaeological landmarks, and the opening of new tombs and temples. The sector also anticipates the full opening of the GEM, the world’s largest cultural institution dedicated to a single civilization, which is expected to revolutionize the global cultural tourism experience.
He further clarified that this cultural renaissance is not limited to Cairo and Giza; it extends to Luxor, Aswan, Saqqara, and Alexandria.
By developing visitor pathways, enhancing lighting and services, and reopening sites that were closed for years, Egypt is solidifying its status as the world’s largest open-air museum.
All thanks to a clear vision
The Chairman of the Egyptian Tourism Federation, Hossam al-Shaer, said that the historic surge in Egyptian tourism throughout 2025 was directly supported by the political leadership’s clear vision, which bolstered global confidence in the Egyptian destination.
He noted that national stability and security remain key factors in attracting international tourist traffic.
Al-Shaer noted that these results reflect the evolution of Egypt’s tourism industry, the confidence of airlines and tour operators, and a growing international passion for visiting Egypt.
He stated that ongoing coordination between the government and the private sector—coupled with the modernization of infrastructure, airports, and road networks—has created an attractive investment climate, enabling the sector to achieve these unprecedented figures.
Furthermore, he stressed that reaching the state’s target of 30 million tourists requires the concerted efforts of all ministries and authorities, alongside continued partnership with the private sector. This includes developing innovative tourism products that blend culture, leisure, and nature into a single, integrated experience.
Looking ahead to 2026, al-Shaer highlighted that Egypt is emerging as one of the world’s premier destinations for cultural tourism.
The country leverages a unique combination of deep civilizational heritage, modern infrastructure, and refreshed tourist experiences at a time when global travelers are seeking safe, culturally rich destinations capable of providing authentic and sustainable experiences.
This performance confirms that cultural tourism is no longer just a traditional branch of the Egyptian economy; it has become a primary engine of growth and a civilized gateway reflecting Egypt’s role in preserving and presenting human heritage to the world through a contemporary lens.
Edited translation from Al-Masry Al-Youm
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