Today,
Egypt stands out as a
fascinating tourist
destination, combining the magnificence of its heritage
with an eager spirit for positive change. Egypt has always been the
pioneer in innovation—for instance, the creation of the
hieroglyphic writing and the world's most impressive monuments, like
the Pyramids at Giza, and the temples at Abu Simbel and
Karnak (Exhibit). Its intriguing society reveals a fascinating past. As
the country has been a witness to the rise and fall of
numerous civilizations, each one has left a lasting
mark on Egypt's cultural landscape. Over thousands of
years, Egypt has been shaped by the influences of several
rulers including the Persians, Greeks, Romans, Arabs, French
and British.
Tourism in Egypt has witnessed rapid growth over the past
decade, with an annual growth rate of 10%, as against the global average of
7%. This growth has been coupled with the increase in hotel capacities,
hotel occupancy levels, international tourist revenues, among a host
of other parameters. Egypt enjoys a commanding share of around 25%
of the Middle East tourism market.
The tourism sector is a significant contributor to
Egypt's GDP and employment, with direct shares of 4.4% and 7%
respectively. However, if secondary/indirect effects are also considered,
these percentages rise to 11.6% and 15% respectively. Tourism is also
the largest foreign exchange earner for the country. |
