Egypt has always been a top tourist destination, with its rich history, ancient landmarks, and beautiful beaches. However, the country has experienced a significant decline in tourism over the past decade.
So, what happened to Egypt tourism? Let’s take a closer look.
The Arab Spring and Its Impact
One of the main reasons for the decline in Egypt’s tourism industry was the Arab Spring in 2011. This political upheaval led to widespread protests and demonstrations across the country, which created an unstable environment for tourists. As a result, many countries issued travel warnings advising their citizens not to visit Egypt.
According to official figures from the Egyptian government, visitor numbers fell by more than 30% in 2011 compared to the previous year. The decline continued over the following years as political unrest persisted.
Terrorism Incidents
Another factor that contributed to Egypt’s decline in tourism was terrorism. In recent years, there have been several high-profile attacks on tourists in Egypt that have made headlines around the world. These incidents have had a detrimental effect on the perception of safety and security in Egypt among potential visitors.
In October 2015, a Russian plane crashed in Sinai killing all 224 passengers onboard. The cause of the crash was later attributed to a bomb planted by terrorists affiliated with ISIS. This incident prompted several countries including Russia and the UK to halt flights to Egypt’s Sharm El-Sheikh airport.
Economic Challenges
The economic challenges faced by Egypt have also played a role in its declining tourism industry. The country has been struggling with high inflation rates and currency devaluation which makes it more expensive for tourists to visit. Additionally, infrastructure development has not kept pace with demand which can lead to overcrowding at popular tourist destinations.
The Road Ahead
Despite the challenges faced by Egypt’s tourism industry, the country is taking steps to revive it. The government has launched several initiatives and campaigns to promote tourism in the country. These include improving security measures at tourist sites and airports, developing new attractions, and offering incentives to tour operators.
Conclusion
In conclusion, a combination of political unrest, terrorism incidents, economic challenges, and infrastructure issues have contributed to Egypt’s declining tourism industry. However, with the government’s efforts to revive it combined with its rich history and attractions, there is hope for Egypt’s tourism industry in the future.