Egypt’s tourism scene is buzzing with excitement! Egypt has just announced visa-free entry for citizens from nine select countries. This bold move includes key GCC nations, paving the way for more travel and better international relations.
Visa-Free Travel To Egypt For UAE, Bahrain & 7 Other Countries
In a strategic effort to boost tourism and simplify travel, Egypt has granted visa-free entry to nine privileged countries. This list features several GCC nations, including Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman, Saudi Arabia, and the United Arab Emirates, alongside Hong Kong, Lebanon, Macao, and Malaysia. However, Qatar is notably absent from this list. By removing visa requirements, Egypt aims to foster stronger ties and attract more visitors from these regions, creating a more interconnected and accessible travel environment.
Egypt’s Tourism Boom
Egypt’s tourism industry is experiencing a phenomenal surge. In 2023, the country welcomed a record-breaking 15 million tourists, a significant jump from 4.9 million in 2021. This upward trend continues in 2024, with a 27% increase in visitors during the first four months alone, driven by a 54% rise in tourists from Arab nations.
One key initiative driving this growth is the Cairo City Break program. This initiative seeks to revitalise Cairo as a prime destination for extended weekends, showcasing a rich array of historical and cultural sites. By expanding tourist experiences, Egypt plans to double Cairo’s hotel capacity to 60,000 rooms over the next five years, catering to the growing demand for luxury tourism.
Future Prospects
Egypt’s tourism sector shows no signs of slowing down. Projections indicate that the hospitality industry will reach $4.65 billion by 2029. Additionally, the overall travel and tourism market is expected to grow annually by 5.98%, hitting $7.23 billion by 2028. These promising figures highlight Egypt’s effective policies and robust infrastructure, attracting more international visitors.
Here’s the list of countries that can now enjoy visa-free travel to Egypt:
- Bahrain
- Hong Kong
- Kuwait
- Lebanon
- Macao
- Oman
- Saudi Arabia
- United Arab Emirates
- Malaysia
Egypt’s strategic decision to implement visa-free entry for select countries, including key GCC nations, is a testament to its commitment to enhancing tourism and international relations. This policy, along with initiatives like the Cairo City Break program, positions Egypt as a top global destination. With impressive growth in tourist numbers and significant economic contributions from the tourism sector, Egypt is poised for continued success and expansion in the years to come.
Cover Image Courtesy: Canva Stock Images
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