Egypt and Saudi Arabia tourism cooperation was a key topic during the 26th World Travel
and Tourism Council (WTTC) Global Summit in Valletta, Malta. Egyptian Tourism and Antiquities
Minister Sherif Fathy met with international tourism leaders to discuss attracting more visitors
and creating new opportunities for Egypt’s tourism industry.

Fathy met Saudi Deputy Minister of Tourism Abdul Mohsen Al Mazid to discuss ways to
strengthen relations between the two countries. Both officials reviewed developments in their
tourism sectors and explored opportunities to encourage more people to travel between Egypt
and Saudi Arabia.

The Egyptian minister also explained plans to use modern technology and artificial intelligence
to promote Egypt as a tourist destination. These efforts aim to introduce the country’s attractions
to more international travellers and support future tourism growth.

The discussions also focused on Egypt’s North Coast, which is becoming increasingly popular
among Saudi visitors. Officials explored opportunities to develop yacht tourism in the Red Sea
and attract travellers interested in coastal holidays.

Fathy also held meetings with senior representatives from Marriott International and Hilton to
discuss hotel expansion in Egypt. Neal Jones represented Marriott International, while Hilton
was represented by its president and chief executive officer Chris Nassetta. Both companies
discussed their plans to support Egypt’s growing tourism industry.

Another important issue was improving training for Egyptian tourism and hospitality workers.
The meetings explored ways to help employees develop professional skills and gain
international experience through opportunities at hotels around the world.

Marriott shared its expansion plans for Egypt, while Hilton highlighted the importance of the
Egyptian market. The company also discussed its activities in several destinations, including the
North Coast, Nile cruises and traditional dahabiya sailing trips.

Fathy also met representatives of a Saudi company specialising in cruise tourism. The
discussions focused on increasing cruise visits to Egyptian ports and popular destinations such
as the North Coast and El Alamein. Both sides agreed to coordinate with the Egyptian Tourism
Federation to explore ways to strengthen their partnership.

During the summit, Fathy also spoke with Maltese media about Egypt’s tourism strategy and
recent developments. These meetings reflect Egypt’s efforts to attract investment and build
international partnerships that can create opportunities for tourism businesses and workers.

Source: News Egypt / WTTC

Razia khan