Egypt eyes on Germany, Italy, India and China as top source market for travel
At the Riyadh Travel Fair 2024, Egypt’s tourism sector showcased a robust strategy to bolster its appeal to travelers, particularly from Saudi Arabia and the broader GCC region.
At the Riyadh Travel Fair 2024, Egypt’s tourism sector showcased a robust strategy to bolster its appeal to travelers, particularly from Saudi Arabia and the broader GCC region. Dr. Mohammad Al Sherbeiny, General Manager of the International Tourism Offices, Egypt, highlighted Egypt’s ongoing efforts to expand its market reach and introduce travelers to new and exciting destinations within the country. Focus on the Saudi Market Speaking at the fair, Dr. Mohammad Al Sherbeiny, General Manager of the International Tourism Offices, Egypt emphasized the importance of the Saudi market for Egypt. He noted that Saudi Arabia is currently the third-largest source of visitors to Egypt, with over one million Saudi travelers visiting in the past year alone. This figure is expected to grow as Egypt intensifies its marketing efforts and strengthens travel connections between the two nations. “Saudi Arabia is a significant market for us,” he said. “We are not only maintaining but also expanding our reach in this market. Direct flights between Saudi Arabia and key destinations in Egypt, such as Sharm El-Sheikh, have already been established, making travel more convenient and attractive for Saudi tourists.” Introducing New Destinations One of the highlights of Egypt’s presentation at the Riyadh Travel Fair was the introduction of new destinations such as the North Coast. Known for its beautiful beaches and luxury resorts, the North Coast is being promoted as a premier summer destination. “We are focusing on the North Coast as a year-round destination,” Dr. Mohammad Al Sherbeiny, General Manager of the International Tourism Offices, Egypt explained. “It’s not just for summer; we are working to ensure that tourists can enjoy the North Coast’s attractions throughout the year.” Additionally, Egypt is enhancing its offerings in traditional tourist hotspots like Cairo and Luxor. In Cairo, new attractions and enhanced visitor experiences are being developed, including expanded city tours and cultural excursions. Strengthening Travel Connectivity To support the influx of tourists, Egypt is boosting its travel connectivity. The recent introduction of direct flights from Saudi Arabia to Sharm El-Sheikh is part of this initiative. These flights are expected to make Egypt more accessible and attractive, facilitating easier travel for tourists looking to explore the country’s rich cultural and natural landscapes. “We are constantly working to improve our connectivity with Saudi Arabia and other key markets,” Dr. Mohammad Al Sherbeiny, General Manager of the International Tourism Offices, Egypt stated. “This includes both air travel and ground transportation, making it easier for visitors to explore all that Egypt has to offer.” Promoting Egypt’s Cultural Heritage Egypt’s unique cultural heritage remains a cornerstone of its tourism strategy. The country’s rich history, epitomized by the Pyramids of Giza, the temples of Luxor, and the treasures of the Nile, continues to draw visitors from around the world. “Our cultural heritage is our strongest asset,” said Mr. Muhammad Al. “It is the dream of many to visit the Pyramids, explore the Valley of the Kings, and experience the grandeur of ancient Egypt. We are committed to preserving and promoting these sites, ensuring they remain accessible and captivating for future generations.” The Nile River cruises, in particular, are being heavily promoted as a quintessential Egyptian experience. These cruises offer tourists a unique way to explore the country’s historical sites while enjoying the scenic beauty of the Nile. Expanding International Market Reach Beyond the GCC, Egypt is targeting a diverse array of international markets. Traditional strongholds such as Germany, France, the UK, and Italy continue to be pivotal. However, Egypt is also focusing on emerging markets like China and India, aiming to attract a broader spectrum of tourists. “We are expanding our reach to include markets like China and India,” Dr. Mohammad Al Sherbeiny, General Manager of the International Tourism Offices, Egypt explained. “These countries have shown increasing interest in our offerings, and we see great potential for growth in these regions.” The focus also extends to long-haul destinations, with strategic marketing efforts aimed at attracting tourists from countries like Brazil and the USA. Embracing the MICE Market Egypt is making significant strides in the Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions (MICE) sector. With new facilities and venues opening, including historic sites like temples and citadels now available for events, Egypt is positioning itself as a leading destination for international conferences and business events. “We are seeing a surge in the MICE market,” said Dr. Mohammad Al Sherbeiny, General Manager of the International Tourism Offices, Egypt. “Egypt is hosting more conferences and events than ever before. This not only boosts our economy but also enhances our reputation as a premier business travel destination.” Looking Forward The Riyadh Travel Fair 2024 provided a glimpse into Egypt’s dynamic and forward-looking approach to tourism. With its blend of ancient heritage and modern attractions, coupled with enhanced connectivity and a welcoming approach to international visitors, Egypt is poised to strengthen its position as a top global travel destination. As Egypt continues to innovate and expand its offerings, travelers from around the world can look forward to a richer, more accessible, and more exciting experience. Whether for leisure, business, or cultural exploration, Egypt promises to deliver unforgettable journeys for all who visit.