Egypt, Saudi Arabia sign executive programme to deepen tourism cooperation, enhance regional travel

EGYPT – Egypt’s Ministry of Tourism and Antiquities and Saudi Arabia’s Ministry of Tourism have signed an executive programme aimed at deepening bilateral cooperation across the tourism sector.

This landmark agreement builds upon a 2014 memorandum of understanding, establishing a long-term foundation for collaboration in tourism development.

Under the new programme, both countries will collaborate on joint tourism promotion and marketing, professional training and capacity building, sustainable tourism initiatives, and the exchange of best practices.

The partnership also promotes coordinated action within regional and international tourism organizations to enhance strategic coordination.

Officials emphasized the programme reflects a shared commitment to fostering sustainable growth and enhancing cultural and economic ties through tourism.

This initiative is expected to further boost regional coordination in travel and hospitality services.

In 2024, approximately 1.5 million Saudi tourists visited Egypt, accounting for nearly half of all Arab arrivals.

Saudi spending in Egypt reached an estimated US$1.5 billion, highlighting the economic importance of this partnership.

Both nations aim to leverage their complementary tourism assets to attract more visitors and boost regional tourism competitiveness.

This agreement supports the broader Vision 2030 and Egypt’s tourism recovery strategies by creating more robust frameworks for cooperation, innovation, and sustainable growth within the Middle East and North Africa region.

Egypt and Saudi Arabia’s bilateral tourism cooperation has expanded significantly in recent years.

Beyond the recent executive programme, both countries have undertaken joint marketing campaigns targeting new international markets, leveraging their cultural and historical attractions to draw wider global audiences.

In 2025, they launched cross-border tourism packages enabling seamless travel between the two countries, supported by streamlined visa processes and enhanced air connectivity.

Both nations are collaborating on sustainable tourism strategies to preserve natural and cultural heritage while boosting economic benefits.

There is also a focus on professional training programs for hospitality workers to raise service standards.

Additionally, a landmark US$18.5 billion joint investment was finalized for the Marassi Red Sea project, a massive integrated tourism development led by Saudi and Emirati partners in Egypt.

These efforts align with Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 and Egypt’s tourism growth targets, promoting enhanced regional coordination, economic diversification, and cultural exchange through tourism.

The cooperation strengthens both countries as leading tourist hubs in the MENA region, driving mutual growth and innovation.

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