Egypt Ranks 5th in Most Searched for Destinations in 2024 on Google
In an article published by Conde Nast on December 10th, 2024, Egypt achieved a remarkable ranking of 5th place among the “Most Googled Travel Destinations of 2024” in Google’s annual search report. This recognition highlights Egypt’s growing global appeal as a prime travel destination, particularly as the world continues to show interest in exploring its rich cultural heritage, iconic landmarks, and unique experiences. The ranking reflects the ongoing efforts to promote Egypt’s tourism sector, which includes major developments such as the opening of the Grand Egyptian Museum, the renovation of the Giza Plateau, and the introduction of innovative technological experiences at key historical sites. With its ancient monuments, vibrant cities, and a burgeoning luxury travel market, Egypt’s presence among the top destinations underscores its importance as a key player in the global tourism industry.
Goodbye to Pyramids Disarray: Giza Plateau Set for a New Transformation in 2025
The Giza Plateau is undergoing a major revamp aimed at improving visitor experience and making the site more eco-friendly, with an investment of over 1.5 billion Egyptian pounds. The renovation includes a new entrance via the Fayoum Highway, an expanded parking area, and the use of eco-friendly electric vehicles for transportation within the site. Visitors will have access to a new visitor center showcasing artifacts and historical stories about the ancient kings, while also enjoying local Egyptian products instead of foreign-made souvenirs. Efforts are also underway to improve animal welfare at the site by regulating the operation of horses and camels. The project is expected to be completed by February 2025, creating a more organized, sustainable, and enriching experience for tourists.
Grand Egyptian Museum Wins Two Prestigious Awards, Including FIDIC’s Project of the Year
The Grand Egyptian Museum (GEM) has recently earned two significant accolades, cementing its place as a global cultural icon. At the sixth annual FIDIC International Contract Users Awards in London, the GEM won the FIDIC 2024 Project of the Year award for its exemplary use of FIDIC contracts. This marks the first time an Egyptian project has received this honor. Additionally, UNESCO recognized GEM with the Prix Versailles for 2024, naming it one of the world’s most beautiful museums for its exceptional architectural design, reflection of local heritage, and commitment to environmental sustainability. The museum joins an elite group of seven museums globally, including the A4 Art Museum in China and the Smritivan Earthquake Museum in India. Minister of Tourism and Antiquities Sherif Fathy praised these accomplishments, highlighting GEM’s unique design and its role in elevating Egypt’s global cultural standing. Currently in its soft-opening phase, the GEM continues to attract visitors with its remarkable exhibits, including King Tutankhamun’s full collection, and its stunning architectural features that blend modernity with Egypt’s rich heritage.
Cairo International Airport’s Terminal 4 to support Egypt’s tourism growth targets
Egypt is advancing its aviation and tourism sectors with the development of Terminal 4 at Cairo International Airport, designed to handle at least 30 million passengers annually, with potential expansion to 40 million. A recent meeting reviewed the project’s progress, aligning it with the vision to modernize Egypt’s airport infrastructure and achieve the goal of welcoming 30 million tourists by 2030.
The terminal will feature state-of-the-art facilities, including a new runway with advanced navigation systems, solar-powered car parks, and enhanced road connectivity. Two MoUs signed with Pangiam last year support the project’s design, leveraging emerging technologies to improve infrastructure.
Set to be completed within 4-5 years, the terminal’s development underscores Egypt’s commitment to growing its tourism sector, which expects to reach 15.3 million visitors in 2024, a 4% increase despite regional challenges.
Egypt tourist arrivals expected to reach around 15.3 mln by end of 2024
Tourist arrivals in Egypt are expected to reach 15.3 million by the end of 2024, marking a 5% annual growth rate. This trend is projected to continue into 2025. To accommodate the increasing number of visitors, Egypt plans to double its hotel capacity over the next five to six years and focus on developing key tourist areas, particularly around the pyramids, to attract investment.
In 2023, Egypt welcomed 14.9 million tourists, exceeding the 2010 peak of 14.7 million. Between January and June 2024, the country saw a record 7.1 million visitors, with tourism revenues rising to $6.6 billion in the first half of the year, up from $6.3 billion in 2023.
Tourism remains a vital source of foreign currency for Egypt, alongside remittances, Suez Canal revenues, and foreign investments. The government has outlined a national tourism strategy aiming to attract 30 million tourists by 2028 by expanding capacity and enhancing the visitor experience.
