Cairo: The Cabinet's Information and Decision Support Center (IDSC) has announced ambitious targets for Egypt's tourism sector, aiming to attract 23.8 million tourists and generate $21.2 billion in revenue by 2030. This announcement follows a comprehensive report by BMI, part of Fitch Solutions, which projects steady growth in both tourist arrivals and tourism revenue over the coming years.
According to State Information Service Egypt, the report anticipates a 6.3% increase in tourist arrivals in 2026, reaching approximately 20.19 million visitors, up from 19 million in 2025. By 2030, this number is expected to climb to 23.78 million, reflecting an average annual growth rate of 4.6%. Tourism revenue is also projected to rise from $18.58 billion in 2026 to $21.15 billion by 2030, highlighting the sector's critical role in generating foreign currency, bolstering economic activity, and creating job opportunities.
The report underscores the significant contribution of the Grand Egyptian Museum to Egypt's tourism appeal. Since its opening in November 2025, the museum has received about 15,000 visitors daily and is projected to attract around 5 million annually. It plays a crucial role in enhancing cultural tourism and encouraging extended stays by integrating museum visits with other archaeological and tourism sites, thereby increasing tourist spending.
Egypt's hotel industry is set for substantial expansion, with plans to grow total hotel capacity to between 484,000 and 500,000 rooms. This expansion is vital for accommodating the anticipated rise in tourist numbers, particularly during peak seasons, and for maintaining service quality and the country's competitive edge as a tourism destination.
The report highlights ongoing investments in tourism infrastructure, including projects in Ras El Hekma and New Alamein, as well as developments in airport facilities, transport networks, and high-speed railways. These improvements are expected to enhance the overall tourist experience and ease travel between destinations. Additionally, Egypt's e-visa system now covers 118 nationalities, simplifying travel procedures and facilitating access to the country.
European markets are projected to remain the largest source of tourists, with arrivals expected to increase from 10.18 million in 2026 to 11.63 million by 2030. Middle Eastern tourist arrivals are forecasted to reach around 3.92 million in 2026, and the U.S. is anticipated to contribute approximately 677,000 visitors.
While the report notes the importance of market diversification and targeting high-potential markets like China, aiming to attract 1 million Chinese tourists, it also identifies challenges such as regional geopolitical tensions, air traffic disruptions, and rising jet fuel prices, which could impact travel costs and demand.
To capitalize on the projected growth, the report suggests expanding hotel investments, developing hospitality skills, and improving service quality. By enhancing visitor satisfaction and diversifying tourism products, Egypt can maximize economic returns from increased tourist traffic and strengthen the integration between tourism and other economic sectors.