Egypt is on track to welcome over 15 million visitors in 2024, setting a new record for annual tourism numbers. This positive forecast was celebrated at the 43rd World Travel Market (WTM) in London, where Egypt’s Minister of Tourism and Antiquities, Sherif Fathy, inaugurated an impressive Egyptian pavilion.
Held from November 5 to 7, WTM London is the premier global event for the travel industry, gathering tour operators, travel agents, and industry experts. Egypt’s sprawling 800-square-meter pavilion features 80 participants, including 38 tourism companies, 38 hotels, and airlines such as Air Cairo and Nesma. Representatives from the Red Sea and South Sinai governorates and the Cultural Tourism Preservation Association showcased the country’s rich and varied tourism offerings.
Last year, Egypt welcomed 14.91 million international tourists, achieving the highest figures since records began. This success comes despite regional challenges and underscores the resilience of the sector. The ministry is forecasting a 5% increase in visitors for 2024, fueled by strategic efforts to attract tourists from new markets, including China and Scandinavia, through targeted promotional campaigns leveraging social media and artificial intelligence.
The winter season is already showing promise with a surge in charter flights from European countries like Spain, France, and Italy, increasing their weekly flights to 20 starting November. British tourism has also rebounded to levels not seen in 11 years, indicating a strong season ahead.
The Egyptian government aims to boost tourism revenues from $12 billion to $30 billion within the next three years, with hotel occupancy rates already surpassing 75% in several regions. Luxor recently hosted its first agricultural tourism event, highlighting new investment opportunities and an increase in average tourist spending, now estimated at $140 per night, up from $120 last season.
In the wider context, global tourism trends show a strong recovery post-pandemic, with international travel rebounding faster than expected. Egypt, with its ancient heritage sites, stunning natural landscapes, and vibrant culture, is well-positioned to capitalize on this resurgence.
