Egypt’s Winter Tourism Season Gains Strong Momentum, Expert Says

Egypt’s winter tourism season has been underway since October and is witnessing strong demand from domestic, Arab, and international visitors, particularly from Europe and Russia seeking the country’s warm winter climate, according to tourism expert Dr. Hossam Haza’a.

In a televised interview, Haza’a said Red Sea resorts, along with Luxor and Aswan, remain leading destinations for cultural, beach, and eco-tourism. He noted that Egypt has the capacity to accommodate the growing influx of tourists thanks to significant upgrades in infrastructure, including airport expansions, new hotel projects, the construction of new airports, and intensified international marketing efforts led by both the government and the private sector.

Haza’a said Egypt is expected to receive around 18.7 million tourists during the current season, generating revenues estimated at nearly $18 billion. He added that hotel occupancy rates and Nile cruise bookings are rising steadily, reflecting the strength of the winter season.

The tourism expert also highlighted major shifts in Egypt’s inbound tourism map, noting that German tourism has surpassed Russian arrivals, alongside the opening of new markets in Asia, Latin America, and Africa.

According to Haza’a, Egypt’s tourism appeal goes beyond statistics and revenue figures. “The real value of the tourism experience in Egypt lies in its culture, history, and authentic hospitality,” he said, adding that visitors enjoy a comprehensive experience that blends sunshine, beaches, and world-renowned historical and heritage sites.

In earlier remarks, Haza’a pointed to a sharp increase in tourism activity in Red Sea cities compared to previous years, coinciding with the upcoming Christmas and New Year holidays. He described the surge as “high and unusual.”

He said Hurghada and Marsa Alam received around 289 international tourist flights within just 48 hours, carrying nearly 57,000 tourists from various European cities—an indicator of a strong winter tourism rebound.

Hurghada International Airport recorded the highest arrival rates last week, receiving 155 international flights from several European countries. Current hotel booking rates range between 80% and 90%, according to data from tourism companies and relevant authorities, underscoring the robust performance of Egypt’s winter tourism season.