Egypt targets 30M tourists annually by 2030
Government plans seek to expand tourism revenues, attract investment and increase sector’s contribution to Egypt’s wider economy
CAIRO, Egypt (MNTV) — Egypt is targeting 30 million international tourist arrivals annually by 2030 as the government seeks to increase tourism revenues and strengthen the sector’s role in national economic growth.
Tourism and Antiquities Minister Sherif Fathy and Planning and Economic Development Minister Ahmed Rostom discussed measures to better assess tourism’s direct and indirect economic contribution and coordinate future development policies.
Fathy described tourism as a central component of Egypt’s economy, saying its impact extends beyond visitor spending to industries and services that depend on tourism activity, according to Fast Company Me.
He called for closer coordination between the two ministries to align tourism objectives with national economic planning and determine the investment and infrastructure required to accommodate continued growth.
Fathy said reaching the 30 million visitor target would substantially increase tourism revenues and enhance the sector’s contribution to the economy. He said achieving the goal would require cooperation among government institutions and policies that encourage sustainable expansion.
The Tourism and Antiquities Ministry’s strategy is based on six priorities, including improving the investment environment, expanding the range of tourism products, developing the sector’s workforce and improving governance and the visitor experience.
The strategy also emphasizes sustainability, digital and environmental transformation and stronger international tourism marketing.
Rostom said tourism remains an important source of economic growth and foreign currency for Egypt while supporting employment both directly and through businesses connected to the sector.
He pointed to the opening of new archaeological attractions, including the Grand Egyptian Museum, as well as improvements to transportation networks and increased airport capacity as developments that could help accommodate rising visitor numbers.
Rostom also highlighted tourism’s extensive connections with other parts of the economy, saying growth in visitor numbers could generate additional employment, stimulate supporting industries and contribute to broader national development.
The two ministers agreed to maintain coordination on tourism policies and establish future targets designed to expand the sector’s economic contribution.