Has Tourism Dropped in Egypt?

By Michael Ferguson

Egypt is a country known for its rich history, ancient wonders, and vibrant culture. It has long been a popular tourist destination, attracting millions of visitors each year.

However, in recent years, Egypt has faced several challenges that have caused concern for the tourism industry. In this article, we will explore whether tourism has dropped in Egypt.

Political Instability

One of the main reasons for the decline in tourism in Egypt is political instability. The country has experienced a series of political upheavals since 2011 when a popular uprising overthrew long-time dictator Hosni Mubarak. Since then, Egypt has struggled to establish a stable democratic government.

According to the World Bank, political instability and insecurity are major concerns for investors and tourists in Egypt. The frequent protests and violence have created an atmosphere of uncertainty that makes visitors hesitant to travel to the country.

Terrorism

Another factor that has contributed to the decline in tourism in Egypt is terrorism. The country has been Targeted by several terror groups, including ISIS and Al-Qaeda. These groups have carried out attacks on tourist sites, such as the Luxor massacre in 1997 and the bombing of a Russian airliner over Sinai in 2015.

The US Department of State warns travelers about the risks of terrorism when visiting Egypt. The threat of terrorism has led many countries to issue travel advisories warning their citizens against traveling to certain parts of Egypt.

Covid-19 Pandemic

The Covid-19 pandemic has also had a significant impact on tourism in Egypt. Like many other countries around the world, Egypt closed its borders and suspended international flights at the height of the pandemic. This led to a sharp drop in tourist arrivals and revenue.

The Egyptian government estimates that tourism revenue fell by 70% due to Covid-19. The pandemic has also led to increased health and safety concerns among tourists, making them hesitant to travel to Egypt.

Conclusion

In conclusion, tourism in Egypt has experienced a significant decline in recent years due to political instability, terrorism, and the Covid-19 pandemic. While the country continues to work towards establishing a stable government and improving security measures, it may take some time for the tourism industry to fully recover.

Despite these challenges, Egypt remains a fascinating destination with much to offer visitors. From the pyramids of Giza to the Nile River and the Red Sea resorts, there is no shortage of attractions and activities for tourists. With proper safety measures in place and ongoing efforts to improve security and stability, Egypt has the potential to once again become a top tourist destination.