Egypt, Iran to launch tourism exchange amid growing regional cooperation
New tourism exchange aims to foster people-to-people connections, support regional stability, and boost economic growth through increased travel and cultural cooperation
CAIRO, Egypt (MNTV) — Egypt is set to begin a tourism exchange program with Iran in the near future, marking a renewed effort by Cairo to expand its cultural and economic engagement with regional partners.
The development was confirmed on Wednesday by Iranian Minister of Cultural Heritage, Tourism, and Handicrafts Reza Salehi Amiri, following consultations between the two countries’ foreign ministries.
“The exchange of tourists between Iran and Egypt will begin in the near future,” Amiri told reporters on the sidelines of a cabinet session in Tehran, signaling a step forward in reestablishing ties between the two historically significant nations.
Amiri noted that the discussions focused on increasing mutual visitor flows and strengthening tourism cooperation, with the aim of developing sustainable cultural partnerships.
As part of its wider regional tourism strategy, Egypt has also been engaging with other nations. Amiri pointed to efforts to balance visitor numbers with Türkiye, where Iran sends 3.5 million tourists annually while receiving around 1 million in return.
The anticipated Egypt-Iran tourism exchange is expected to create new opportunities for both countries’ hospitality and cultural sectors, while contributing to broader goals of economic diversification and regional integration.