Minister discloses number of tourists visiting Egypt monthly during COVID-19 pandemic

CAIRO – 12 July 2021: Minister of Tourism and Antiquities Khaled al-Anany stated in a phone-in Sunday that the number of tourists flowing into Egypt monthly has been 500,000 for the past four months, except for June where the figure recorded is 550,000.  

The minister added that 60 percent of tourism to Egypt comes from Europe; however, there is a slowdown now because of restrictions on travel due to COVID-19. He revealed that he has been to Germany two weeks ago negotiating allowing travel to resort towns but the German side insisted that no exceptions can be made.

On the other hand, Anany noted that the number of tourists from other countries – that were not major exporters of tourists to Egypt - has risen. That is attributed to the cheap prices in Egypt and granting free of charge tourist visas as well as offering attractive aviation packages.

The minister pointed out that the number of Arab tourists, particularly Saudis, visiting Egypt has been rising. He added that more Russians have also been visiting Cairo.

Speaking of domestic tourism, their main destinations are Sharm El Sheikh, and Hurghada. Of course, many head to the North Coast but it does not count because it almost has no hotels given that it was initially planned to house compounds exclusively. The handful hotels there are very expensive given they are five or seven stars, and because customers mainly show up in summer solely.