Egypt, Experiencing Record Growth in Tourism, Deepens Relations with Türkiye at EMITT 2026.

Egypt, participating in the 29th Eastern Mediterranean International Tourism and Travel Fair EMITT 2026, is preparing to further strengthen its strong bilateral relations with Turkey. The country, which hosted 19 million international visitors in 2025, attracted attention with its 21% growth performance, more than four times the global average. This performance has strengthened Egypt's position as a strategic tourism partner in the Eastern Mediterranean and Eurasian markets.

Stating that EMITT is an ideal platform to deepen collaborations with Turkish and Eurasian travel partners Minister of Tourism and Antiquities Sherif Fathy, "The historic levels achieved in tourism present a significant opportunity to develop new and more comprehensive experiences. We are ready to work closely with Turkey to develop new products and experiences that combine Egypt's history, culture, holiday and entertainment options with luxury elements.” dedicate.

Strategic collaborations with Türkiye in the field of tourism are progressing with concrete steps.

Egypt's participation in EMITT 2026 demonstrated the shared will of both countries to strengthen cooperation in tourism, aviation, and investment. This step, taken before the upcoming Strategic Cooperation Council meeting, shows that contacts regarding cooperation between Turkey and Egypt have intensified even further.

In 2025, Sherif Fathy met with representatives of Türkiye's hospitality sector to discuss resort and hotel investments, highlighting the potential Egypt offered for long-term investments. During the same period, the number of visitors from Türkiye also increased rapidly; in the first half of 2025, there was a 56,5% increase compared to the same period of the previous year.

Experiences designed specifically for Turkish travelers.

Egypt offers Turkish visitors a holistic destination profile that caters to diverse expectations by providing a wide range of experiences from culture and seaside tourism to adventure and business travel. This diversity, bringing together history, lifestyle, gastronomy, and relaxation opportunities in a single route, makes the country a strong alternative for both short city getaways and comprehensive holiday programs.

Opened on November 1, 2025, at the foot of the Giza Pyramids, the Grand Egyptian Museum, with its 57 artifacts, including the first complete display of the Tutankhamun collection, and the monumental statue of Ramses II, positions Egypt as a major center that will bring it to the forefront of global cultural tourism.

Cairo's historic mosques, Islamic architecture, and archaeological heritage reflect shared cultural ties stretching back to the Mediterranean and Ottoman periods; while the city's vibrant art scene, local markets, and rich cuisine offer Turkish travelers a familiar and dynamic urban experience. A 33,5% increase in visits to archaeological sites and museums last year demonstrates the continued strength of interest in cultural tourism. Luxury resorts along the Mediterranean and North Coasts combine sea, gastronomy, and lifestyle, while the Red Sea region stands out for its diving, snorkeling, and wellness-focused experiences, catering to families and active vacationers. Wellness centers located in desert oases offer diverse alternatives for visitors seeking relaxation and rejuvenation.

In addition, the Sacred Family Route and significant Islamic heritage sites create unique itineraries for those interested in faith-based travel, while modern conference centers and resort infrastructure provide a strong foundation for the MICE and business travel segments.

This wide variety allows Turkish tour operators to design customized programs that combine culture, leisure, and business travel, responding to experience-oriented demand.

Increased transportation and air capacity are boosting tourism performance.

Egypt's strong performance is also supported by rapidly expanding international connections. Airline seat capacity and charter flight numbers have increased significantly, outpacing global aviation trends. This advanced connectivity network further reinforces Egypt's position as a must-visit destination for culture, adventure, luxury, and business travel.

About the Egyptian Tourism Authority (ETA)

Established in 1981, the Egyptian Tourism Authority (ETA) promotes the country's destinations, travel experiences, and cultural heritage on an international scale. Operating under the Ministry of Tourism and Antiquities, ETA leads global marketing strategies while supporting sustainable tourism initiatives aimed at increasing Egypt's international and domestic visitor numbers.

Source: HORECA TREND and Experience Egypt