Minister of Tourism and Antiquities Sherif Fathy announced a 15.6% increase in inbound tourist arrivals to Egypt during the first quarter of 2026 compared to the same period last year.
The announcement followed Fathy’s visit to New York, where he met with US travel and tourism media outlets and held talks with the President of the US Tour Operators Association.
Fathy discussed cooperation with the Manhattan District Attorney’s Office to recover illegally exported Egyptian antiquities. He noted challenges such as rising fuel prices and reduced flight frequencies by airlines, adding that the ministry has updated its aviation incentive program.
The minister reiterated the government target of attracting 30 million tourists annually by 2030, with priorities including expanded hotel capacity and regulation of vacation apartments.