This archive report was first published on 22 June 2020.
On June 20, 2020, Egypt received approval from the World Travel and Tourism Council (WTTC) to reopen its borders for international tourism. The country's consistent effort towards adopting health and hygiene standards has paid off, as it was granted a safe travel stamp.
According to Egypt's tourism Minister Khalen al-Nany, the WTTC has approved Egypt's regulations for resuming international tourism. "The WTTC has approved Egypt's regulations for resuming international tourism. This decision reflects Egypt's commitment to the safe resumption of inbound tourism with strict, comprehensive hygiene measures starting from July 1," he said in a statement.
The country will open the Red Sea, South Sinai, and Matrouh Provinces, given their lower infection rates. However, other popular tourist destinations like Cairo, Aswan, and Luxor will open gradually.
The tourism sector accounts for a significant amount of revenue for the country, raking in $13 billion last year. However, the nation suspended air travel and closed tourist destinations on March 19, leading to a loss of $5 billion in revenue.
Currently, 232 hotels have safety certificates to resume operations, and the country is slowly reopening its destinations for local tourists.
The WTTC safe travel stamp approves destinations for tourism and travel based on WHO and CDC safety guidelines.
