CAIRO: Egyptian authorities have abandoned a decision to change visa laws for foreigners entering Egypt, says First Assistant Minister of Tourism Hisham Zaazou. The decision made last Thursday would have required foreigners to obtain a visa at a local Egyptian embassy or consulate before arriving in Cairo. The announcement was met with controversy, as many feared that the new visa law would deter tourists from travelling to Egypt. Egypt's tourism industry is already suffering from an estimated 30 percent decrease this year due to political uncertainties in the aftermath of the January 25 Revolution. As it stands, foreigners from the United States, Europe and select countries are able to buy an entry visa upon arrival in Egypt. Tourism companies and offices in Egypt were informed today of the reformed decision. In 2008, tourism to Egypt brought in some $11 billion and 12.8 million visitors, making it one of the largest sources of income for the North African country, the tourism ministry has reported. BM
