Summary of "Cairo local Time 9 9 2025"
The video reports on the robust recovery and growth of Egypt's tourism sector in 2025. Since January, international tourist arrivals have surged by approximately 23-24%, with hotel occupancy rates exceeding 80%. Popular Red Sea resorts like Hurghada and Sharm El Sheikh are nearly fully booked during peak weeks. According to Dr. Ahmed Bedra, a tourism expert interviewed by phone, this resurgence is attributed to improved safety perceptions following the U.S. travel advisory downgrade of Egypt from level three to level two, signaling enhanced security. Tourism is notably strong from Europe, the USA, and Gulf countries, with Gulf visitors increasingly frequenting resorts like Sahel, especially outside the traditional summer months, making these destinations year-round attractions.
Egypt has also become Africa’s leader in hotel development in 2025, with over 140 hotels under construction adding nearly 34,000 new rooms, a significant increase from 2023 figures. This expansion reflects investor confidence and is expected to boost tourist capacity and elevate Egypt’s status from a budget destination to a luxury one.
A major highlight for Egypt’s tourism is the upcoming opening of the Grand Egyptian Museum (GEM) on November 1, 2025, with public access starting November 4, coinciding with the anniversary of King Tutankhamun’s tomb discovery. Dr. Bedra emphasizes the museum’s global anticipation and its potential to attract both new and returning visitors by showcasing the entire King Tutankhamun collection under one roof. The GEM represents a modern, technologically advanced approach to presenting ancient Egyptian history, contrasting with the older, outdated Egyptian Museum in Tahrir Square, which will require renovation.
Overall, the combination of increased safety, infrastructure development, and cultural attractions like the GEM is expected to sustain and grow Egypt’s tourism industry, contributing significantly to the national economy.
Presenters/Contributors:
- Angie Mayer (Host)
- Dr. Ahmed Bedra (Tourism Expert, guest)
Category
News and Commentary
