Egypt’s timeless tourism offers were proudly on display at ITB Berlin 2024
Egypt experienced a significant increase in tourism in 2023, welcoming 15 million visitors, up by 4.9 million compared to 2021. Tourism is not a new trend in Egypt, however, as tourists started visiting the country over 5,000 years ago. And still, the list of treasures keeps growing. Recently an impressive statue of Ramses II was unearthed, ancient tombs discovered, new mummies brought to light, and an incredible 2,500-year-old funerary tunnel revealed. It is no surprise then that Egypt is one of Lonely Planet’s Best Destination affordable choices for 2024.
The Grand Egyptian Museum is set to fully open in late spring of 2024, with some areas already open, including “Tutankhamun – The Immersive Exhibition”, a 360° spectacle. According to the destination, it will be the largst museum dedicated to a single civilisation. Nearby, a new visitor centre is due to open in a few weeks within the forthcoming transformation at the Pyramids of Giza.
Cairo also is undergoing an ambitious programme of restoration and development that will make it an attractive city break option for European tourists. The Citadel of Saladin in Cairo, built in 1173, has also been extensively revamped. Countless other architectural gems, including domes, minarets and a 12th century synagogue have been restored while the tourist infrastructure has been improved and extended. There is a new 4.7 km walkway along the Nile and exciting developments in hotels and resorts. Old Cairo is being restored and pedestrian zones established.
Egypt projects to welcome 30 million visitors by 2028 with room capacities in hotel due to rise from 30,000 to 60,000 within the next 5 years.