He said the ministry would work to accelerate the development of these sites.
Minister of Tourism and Antiquities Sherif Fathy said international tourist arrivals to Egypt have increased by 5% since the beginning of the year, while arrivals from the US market have risen by 2% over the same period.
His remarks came during a meeting with tourism investors in Matrouh Governorate to discuss investment opportunities and cooperation aimed at developing the governorate’s tourism assets and products, attracting further investment, and increasing visitor numbers.
Fathy stressed the need to make better use of Matrouh’s tourism potential, particularly its prime sites and land, and to develop new hotels to expand the governorate’s accommodation capacity. He said the ministry would work to accelerate the development of these sites.
The minister noted that the meeting was part of the ministry’s efforts to exchange views on developing Matrouh’s tourism sector, while listening to the challenges facing investors and working to address them, whether through direct ministerial action or coordination with other authorities.
Fathy also outlined the ministry’s current strategy, which focuses on promoting Egypt’s strongest competitive advantage as a destination: its unmatched diversity.
He added that Egypt also stands out for the authenticity of its tourism experiences and the growth of its luxury tourism offerings, noting that Matrouh has significant potential to become a leading luxury tourism destination.
The governorate also offers a distinctive cultural and lifestyle experience, he said, highlighting the importance of promoting its Egyptian Bedouin community as an authentic cultural asset that can be incorporated into new tourism experiences.
As part of these efforts, the minister announced plans to launch an Olive Harvest Festival in September. The festival will offer visitors an immersive experience, allowing them to participate in and observe the various stages of olive harvesting and pressing.
He said the festival could be included in tourism programmes targeting visitors staying along the North Coast, provided it is promoted well in advance to allow tour operators to incorporate it into their itineraries.
Fathy emphasised the importance of strengthening the concept of authentic tourism in Matrouh by giving visitors opportunities to experience and engage with Bedouin heritage. This would showcase the governorate’s unique cultural identity and highlight the authenticity and richness of Egypt’s western coast.
The minister also referred to Egypt’s successful bid to host the US Tour Operators Association’s (USTOA) annual Board of Directors meeting in April 2027, which will be held outside the United States.
He said the event is expected to positively support inbound tourism to Egypt, particularly from the US market, building on the impact of Egypt’s recent hosting of World Travel and Tourism Council meetings.
