Minister of Tourism and Antiquities Sherif Fathy on Sunday February 8, 2026 praised strength of Egyptian-Turkish relations, noting the recent successful visit of the Turkish president to Egypt. Fathy said Egypt welcomed 19 million tourists in 2025, a 20 percent increase over 2024, targeting a further 10 percent growth in 2026. Speaking on the sidelines of EMITT, Istanbul’s international tourism exhibition, Fathy reviewed developments in Egypt’s tourism sector and prospects for bilateral investment and cooperation. The minister highlighted cultural tourism growth, with a 30 percent increase in ticket sales for archaeological sites and museums, particularly following the opening of the Grand Egyptian Museum, which hosts around 15,000 daily visitors. He also noted the use of digital marketing and AI in promotional campaigns and highlighted year-round demand for luxury tourism and Nile cruises.

Source: Egypt Independent February 09, 2026 10:49 UTC