Egypt remains a global gateway to one of humanity’s greatest civilisations — from the Pyramids of Giza to the Red Sea resorts.
In 2024, Egypt welcomed ~15.7 million international tourists, surpassing the previous year’s 14.9 million.
The sector generated ~US $15.3 billion in tourism revenue, marking a strong rebound and making tourism one of the country’s key economic sectors.
Key stats: Egypt Tourism
- 15.7 million international visitors in 2024 — Egypt hit a new high in tourism arrivals, signalling strong recovery.
- EGP 726.9 billion spent by international tourists in 2024 — showing that visitor spending is bouncing back (and then some).
- EGP 449.9 billion in domestic tourism spending — local tourism is also booming.
- 8.7 million tourists in H1 of FY2024/25 — on pace for possibly ~17 million by year-end.
- US $14.4 billion in tourism revenues for FY 2023/24 — one of the strongest results in recent years.
- ~156.6 million tourist nights in 2024, with forecasts to reach ~182.6 million by 2028 — visitors are staying and spending.
- Egypt’s goal: 30 million tourists annually by late-2020s — huge ambition matched by major investment.
- Arrivals grew ~27% in 2023 over 2022 — a strong rebound after pandemic lows.
- Tourism is a key economic pillar for Egypt — driving foreign currency, jobs and infrastructure.
- Infrastructure ramp-up: 34,000 new hotel rooms under construction as of 2025 — readying for more visitors.
How Many Tourists Visit Egypt Each Year?
In 2024, Egypt welcomed ~15.7 million visitors.
- 2019 (pre-COVID): ~14.7 M
- 2020: ~3.7 M
- 2021: ~8.0 M
- 2022: ~11.7 M
- 2023: ~14.9 M
- 2024: ~15.7 M
How Many Tourists Visit Egypt Each Day?
On average, ~43,000 visitors per day in 2024 (15.7 M ÷ 365).
How Much Does Egypt Earn From Tourism?
Tourism revenue in 2024 reached ~US $15.3 billion.
- International visitor spending in 2024 rose ~36% above 2019 levels.
- Tourism supports ~2.7 million jobs in 2024.
- Tourism’s contribution to GDP reached ~8.5% in 2024.
Which Countries Visit Egypt the Most?
Top source markets for Egypt in 2024 included Russia, Germany, Saudi Arabia, UK and Poland.
| Country | Approximate Share |
|---|---|
| 🇷🇺 Russia | ~15% |
| 🇩🇪 Germany | ~13% |
| 🇸🇦 Saudi Arabia | ~8% |
| 🇬🇧 United Kingdom | ~9% |
| 🇮🇹 Italy | ~6% |
| 🇵🇱 Poland | ~6% |
| 🇪🇸 Spain | ~3% |
| 🇨🇿 Czech Republic | ~3% |
What Are the Most Visited Places in Egypt?
Egypt’s core tourism fundamentals remain cultural heritage, Nile cruises, and Red Sea resorts.
| Attraction / Region | Annual Visitors (est.) |
|---|---|
| Pyramids of Giza & Sphinx | ~14 M |
| Grand Egyptian Museum (GEM) | ~4-6 M (once fully open) |
| Luxor (Valley of the Kings / Karnak) | ~5 M |
| Aswan & Abu Simbel region | ~2 M |
| Cairo Citadel & Old Cairo | ~2 M |
| Nile River Cruises (Luxor–Aswan) | ~1.5 M |
| Sharm El Sheikh (Red Sea) | ~4-5 M |
| Hurghada & Red Sea Riviera | ~5-6 M |
| Alexandria | ~1 M |
| Siwa Oasis & Western Desert | Growing niche |
When Is the Best Time to Visit Egypt?
| Season | Trend | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Winter (Nov–Feb) | Peak | Mild weather inland & Red Sea resorts |
| Spring (Mar–May) | High | Easter holiday, cruises |
| Summer (Jun–Aug) | Lower | Very hot inland, but Red Sea remains viable |
| Autumn (Sep–Oct) | Rising | Cultural site visits, fewer crowds |
How Much Money Does Tourism Bring to Egypt’s Economy?
Tourism generated ~US $15.3 billion in 2024, making up ~8.5% of the country’s GDP.
Egypt is working to boost hotel capacity and infrastructure to hit its target of 30 million tourists by 2028.
Which Regions of Egypt Are Most Popular With Tourists?
| Region | Type of Tourism | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Giza & Cairo | Cultural / heritage | Ancient sites + urban culture |
| Luxor & Aswan | Heritage & Nile cruises | Temples & tombs |
| Hurghada & Red Sea Riviera | Resorts & diving | Coral reefs, all-inclusive |
| Sharm El Sheikh | Resort & nightlife | Sinai beaches & Red Sea |
| Alexandria | Coastal heritage | Mediterranean culture |
| Siwa & Western Desert | Eco / wellness / adventure | Oasis escapes & niche travel |
FAQ – Egypt Tourism Insights
Is Egypt safe for tourists?
Major tourist destinations (Cairo/Giza, Red Sea resorts) are heavily secured and monitored; travellers should follow current travel advisories.
What is the best month to visit Egypt?
December to February for heritage sightseeing; April and October are great shoulder seasons.
How many tourists visit the Pyramids of Giza?
Approximately ~14 million per year visit the Giza area as part of wider Egypt itineraries.
Is Egypt cheap or expensive?
Generally affordable compared to Western destinations, especially in accommodation, food and local travel.
Is diving popular in Egypt?
Yes — the Red Sea remains one of the top diving destinations globally.
Sources
- Xinhua News — A record 15.7 million tourists visited Egypt in 2024
- WTTC — Travel & Tourism in Egypt Reaches Historic Milestones (visitor spend + jobs)
- EgyptToday — Egypt’s tourism revenues raise to $15.3 billion in 2024
- Al-Ahram Online — Egypt’s tourism revenues rise by 14.7% – inbound arrivals 2024
- Zawya — Egypt welcomes 15.78 million tourists in 2024
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