Egypt has received 8.7 million tourists during the first half of the fiscal year (July–December 2024), with projections suggesting a total of 17 million by year-end in case of maintaining the monthly average of 1.4 million visitors, as per a Cabinet statement. Egypt had a record-breaking year for tourism in 2024, welcoming 15.78 million visitors, said Prime Minister Moustafa Madbouly on Thursday while reviewing a report from Minister of Tourism and Antiquities Sherif Fathy. Madbouly emphasised that Egypt remains focused on achieving its target of welcoming 30 million tourists annually by enhancing tourism infrastructure, promoting the country's attractions, and ensuring a seamless visitor experience. The report noted that hotel occupancy rates reached 69 per cent in December, a 25 per cent increase from the previous year. Popular tourist spots like Sharm El-Sheikh, Cairo, South Sinai, and Hurghada saw occupancy rates above 75 per cent. Madbouly highlighted that Germany, Russia, and Saudi Arabia were the top sources of inbound tourism to Egypt in 2024, maintaining their leading positions during the first half of the 2024–2025 fiscal year. He also highlighted Egypt's promising investment opportunities in the hospitality sector, emphasising the government's ongoing financial incentives and initiatives to attract investment and drive tourism growth. Attribution: Amwal Al Ghad English Subediting: M. S. Salama
