Egypt’s tourism sector has seen a remarkable surge in the first seven months of 2024, with more than 8 million visitors, according to Amr El-Kady, CEO of the Egyptian Tourism Authority.

El-Kady predicts that tourism revenues will exceed $14 billion by year-end, with total visitor numbers expected to reach 15 million, surpassing 2023’s total of 14.9 million.

Tourist spending has increased significantly, with growth rates ranging from 12 to 14 percent between January and mid-August, as reported by Al Arabiya Business. Germany remains the largest source market, followed closely by Russia, which has seen a 10 percent increase in tourist numbers.

The Egyptian Tourism Authority also reports significant growth in the Chinese market, with a 60% increase driven by tripled airline traffic from China to Egypt, now with 28 weekly flights. Additionally, Japan has seen a notable 70 percent growth in tourist numbers compared to the same period in 2023.

Meanwhile, to enhance simplify and the visitor experience, the Egyptian Ministry of Tourism and Antiquities has launched an e-ticket reservation system for 22 archaeological sites and museums, including the Mummification Museum, Luxor Museum, Esna Temple, and Dendera Temple in Qena.

This digital initiative not only aims to improve the visitor experience, but also streamline entry processes, and boost security by eliminating counterfeit tickets. The system also provides accurate visitor numbers and enhances the skills of ticketing staff through exposure to modern technology, aligning with the ministry’s digital transformation strategy.

As part of its longer term plan, the North African country had also recently announced its plan to reach 30 million tourist by 2028. Having recently welcomed a new Viking vessel cruising the Nile, travellers can also look forward to a luxury rail cruise in 2027.