The World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC) reported record growth in Egypt and Tunisia’s tourism sectors. Tourism contributed E£953 billion to Egypt’s economy last year, reflecting nearly 24% growth in the travel sector’s GDP input. This is thanks to a 38.5% surge in international visitor spending totalling E£470.4BN. As well as domestic visitor spend reaching E£328.5BN, a YOY growth of 9%. Jobs supporting this sector then grew by 10% to reach more than 2.5MN across Egypt as a result. 

By capitalising on its rich archaeological heritage, Egypt is able to enhance its tourism appeal. Recent discoveries, such as the unearthing of 33 ancient tombs dated from the Late and Greco-Roman Period have drawn significant international attention and revived interest in Egypt’s historical treasures. These finds offer tourists the unique experiences that are driving current trends among Gen Z travellers right now. 

Egypt is also making strides in wellness tourism, promoting wellness resorts to cater to medical tourists. In May, Egypt’s Health Minister Khaled Abdel Ghaffar opened a dialogue on medical tourism with Greek Health Minister Adonis Georgiadis at the Abu Dhabi International Healthcare Week. Both expressed ways to promote health tourism and natural resources together. This dual focus on historical and wellness tourism is helping Egypt diversify its tourism offerings.

Egypt isn’t the only region seeing impressive tourism growth. The WTTC also reported a record-breaking TND 23BN contribution (14%) to Tunisia’s national economy for 2024. This represents a 3.9% YOY growth for the travel and tourism sector. Domestic visitor spending is due to reach TND 11.7BN this year (5% YOY growth), surpassing 2019 levels by 0.7%.

Tunisia is leveraging its culinary heritage to boost its tourism industry with a recently announced partnership with Italy to develop food and wine tourism. The collaboration aims to create unique culinary experiences by combining Tunisia’s rich and diverse cuisine, with Italy’s culinary expertise.