Tourism Decline in Egypt: Reasons and Impacts
Egypt has been a popular tourist destination for decades, with its ancient pyramids, temples, and tombs drawing visitors from all over the world. However, in recent years, the number of tourists visiting Egypt has declined significantly. In this article, we explore the reasons behind this decline and its impact on the country’s economy.
Reasons for Tourism Decline
There are several reasons why tourism in Egypt has declined. Some of the major reasons are:
1. Political Unrest
Egypt has witnessed political unrest and instability since 2011 when the Arab Spring protests erupted across the Middle East and North Africa. The political instability continued even after the election of President Abdel Fattah el-Sisi in 2014.
2. Terrorist Attacks
Egypt has also experienced several terrorist attacks in recent years, including an attack on a Russian passenger plane in October 2015 that killed all 224 people on board. The attacks have led to concerns about safety among tourists.
3. Economic Factors
The devaluation of the Egyptian pound against major currencies like the US dollar and Euro has made traveling to Egypt more expensive for tourists, leading to a decline in tourism.
Impact of Tourism Decline
The decline in tourism has had a significant impact on Egypt’s economy, which heavily relies on revenue from tourism. The impact can be seen in several areas:
1. Employment
Tourism is a major source of employment for Egyptians, with many people working as tour guides, hotel staff, and restaurant workers. As tourist numbers have declined, many people have lost their jobs or seen their income reduced.
2. Economy
Tourism is one of Egypt’s largest industries, accounting for around 12% of the country’s GDP. The decline in tourism has led to a decrease in revenue, which has had a negative impact on the overall economy.
3. Infrastructure
The lack of tourist income has also resulted in a decline in infrastructure, with many hotels and resorts closing down due to lack of business. This, in turn, has made it harder for future tourists to find suitable accommodations.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the decline in tourism in Egypt can be attributed to several factors such as political instability, terrorist attacks, and economic factors. The impact of this decline can be seen in the loss of employment opportunities, reduction in revenue for the economy, and declining infrastructure. Despite these challenges, Egypt remains an incredible destination with rich history and culture that continues to attract visitors from around the world.