Egypt closed 2025 with its best tourism year on record. According to Egypt's Ministry of Tourism and Antiquities, the country welcomed nearly 19 million tourists in 2025, a 21% increase on 2024 — far above the global average growth of about 5% estimated by UN Tourism.

The numbers behind the record

  • ~19 million international visitors in 2025
  • +21% growth compared with 2024
  • +32% growth in charter flight traffic to Egyptian destinations
  • 18.6 million visits to archaeological sites and museums (excluding the NMEC and GEM)
  • Cairo, Hurghada, Sharm El Sheikh and Marsa Alam airports led arrivals

The government has set a goal of 30 million tourists a year by 2028.

What makes Egypt so attractive?

History you can touch

Egypt is home to seven UNESCO World Heritage Sites, including the Pyramids of Giza, ancient Thebes in Luxor, the Nubian monuments from Abu Simbel to Philae, and Historic Cairo. See our short history of ancient Egypt.

The Grand Egyptian Museum effect

The official opening of the Grand Egyptian Museum in November 2025 gave travelers a powerful new reason to visit Giza.

Sun, sea and year-round warmth

Red Sea resorts such as Hurghada, Sharm El Sheikh and Marsa Alam offer world-class diving and winter sunshine just a short flight from Europe, the Gulf and Africa.

Value for money

Compared with many long-haul destinations, Egypt offers excellent value in hotels, food and transport.

Easier arrivals

The visa on arrival — now a QR code at Cairo International Airport — keeps entry straightforward. For many African travelers, OK-to-Board arranged in advance is the key step. Our 2026 visa guide explains everything.

Egypt and African travelers

Egypt is also a major destination for African visitors traveling for medical care, higher education, business and religious and cultural tourism. Direct and one-stop connections on EgyptAir and Ethiopian Airlines link Cairo with dozens of African cities.

Egypt's tourism story is no longer only about the past. It is about museums, resorts, investment — and a record number of people choosing to come.

Be one of them. Apply with MISR VISA and get OK-to-Board in 24–48 hours.