Cairo – Reda Helal
President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi met today with Prime Minister Dr. Mostafa Madbouly and Minister of Tourism and Antiquities Sherif Fathy to review the latest updates on the tourism sector and the final preparations for the inauguration of the Grand Egyptian Museum, scheduled for November 1.
Presidential Spokesman Ambassador Mohamed El-Shennawy stated that the meeting addressed the executive and logistical details of the opening, as well as the development of the surrounding area. The President emphasized the need for close on-the-ground follow-up to ensure that the museum’s inauguration reflects its status as a global cultural and archaeological landmark.
Boosting Tourism Investment
The Minister of Tourism and Antiquities presented the latest developments in the tourism investment file, noting positive indicators of growing demand for Egypt as a tourist destination across global markets. This growth, he explained, stems from efforts to diversify tourism products, expand promotional campaigns, and improve service quality.
In this context, President El-Sisi highlighted the crucial role of the private sector in driving tourism investment, increasing tourist arrivals, enhancing infrastructure, and diversifying destinations. He also directed the development of a marketing strategy targeting new markets, maximizing foreign currency revenues, and ensuring sustainability through effective governance.
Expanding Hotel Capacity
The meeting also discussed ways to improve hotel facilities and expand accommodation capacity. The minister explained that the sector is currently achieving its highest growth rates and stands as one of Egypt’s most lucrative sources of foreign currency. He outlined recent measures, including facilitating the conversion of land and buildings for hotel use and expanding vacation apartments, to boost room capacity.
Cooperation with UNESCO and Heritage Preservation
The President was also briefed on efforts to strengthen cooperation with UNESCO in the protection and preservation of cultural heritage and archaeological sites. These include ongoing restoration and development projects aimed at improving visitor services while safeguarding heritage. El-Sisi stressed the importance of applying sustainable development principles in managing UNESCO World Heritage sites and called for a comprehensive future vision for their preservation in coordination with UNESCO.