Security at the entrances and exits of South Sinai province, where the current residence of former president Hosni Mubarak is located, has been tightened, a security source told DPA. The source said the measures were being taken in response to calls during Friday's protests to protest at Mubarak's sanctuary. Mubarak has been residing in Sharm al-Sheikh since stepping down on 11 February. Many are warning that the heightened security will affect tourism at the resort, which has been enjoying an increase in British and Russian tourist arrivals. A tourism expert there said that North Sinai -- Sharm el-Sheikh in particular -- has restored its position as Egypt's favorite coastal destination for European, Arab and domestic visitors. The security source said that tourist activities have been revived only up to 50% of the numbers seen in the same period in previous years. A hotel owner in the governorate said that the security reinforcements, which started this week, will impact European tourism in particular, as European tourists like to move freely.
