What Percentage of the Egyptian Economy Is Tourism?

By Alice Nichols

Egypt is known for its rich history, ancient monuments, and stunning beaches. It’s no wonder that tourism is a significant contributor to the country’s economy.

But just how much of Egypt’s economy is dependent on tourism? Let’s take a closer look.

Overview of the Egyptian Economy

The Egyptian economy is diverse, with industries ranging from agriculture to manufacturing. However, the service sector dominates the economy, accounting for almost half of the country’s gross domestic product (GDP).

Tourism in Egypt

Tourism has been a significant contributor to the Egyptian economy for decades. The country has a rich cultural heritage and ancient history that attracts tourists from all over the world. In recent years, Egypt has also developed its beach tourism industry, with resorts like Sharm El-Sheikh and Hurghada becoming popular destinations.

The Impact of Tourism on the Egyptian Economy

Tourism is one of Egypt’s top sources of foreign exchange earnings and provides employment opportunities for millions of people. According to the World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC), tourism’s direct contribution to Egypt’s GDP was 3.5% in 2019.

However, this figure doesn’t include indirect contributions such as revenue generated by supporting industries like transportation and accommodation. When these are factored in, it’s estimated that tourism accounts for around 11% of Egypt’s GDP.

The Impact of COVID-19 on Egyptian Tourism

The COVID-19 pandemic has had a significant impact on global tourism, and Egypt is no exception. Travel restrictions and lockdowns have led to a sharp decrease in tourist arrivals since early 2020.

According to data from the Central Agency for Public Mobilization and Statistics (CAPMAS), tourist arrivals dropped by over 75% in 2020 compared to the previous year. This has had a severe impact on many businesses that rely on tourism, especially in popular destinations like Cairo and Luxor.

Conclusion

Tourism is a vital part of the Egyptian economy, providing employment opportunities and generating foreign exchange earnings. While the COVID-19 pandemic has had a severe impact on the industry, Egypt remains a popular destination for tourists from around the world. As travel restrictions ease and the world begins to recover from the pandemic, it’s hoped that tourism in Egypt will once again thrive.