EGYPT LAUNCHES E-VISA ON ARRIVAL TO BOOST TOURISM

Egypt's new digital visa system at Cairo Airport aims to streamline tourist entry, cut queues, and support a goal of 30 million visitors by 2028.

E-visa egypt Cairo airport Sustainable tourism
Cairo International Airport
Cairo International Airport
Egypt is set to revolutionize its tourism sector with the launch of a cutting-edge e-visa on arrival system, kicking off a pilot phase at Cairo International Airport in mid-June. The initiative, a cornerstone of Egypt’s ambitious 2030 sustainable tourism strategy, is designed to simplify entry for international travelers and elevate the country’s appeal as a global tourism destination.

The new system introduces self-service kiosks and a dedicated mobile application, allowing visitors to secure emergency visas in minutes through a seamless, paperless process. Travelers can complete applications, make electronic payments, and receive QR-coded visas, drastically reducing wait times and eliminating bureaucratic hurdles at border crossings. 

“This is a game-changer for Egypt’s tourism industry,” said Dr. Khaled Abbas, Egypt’s Minister of Tourism and Antiquities, in a statement. “By embracing digital innovation, we’re not only enhancing the visitor experience but also aligning with global standards to attract 30 million tourists annually by 2028.”

Cairo International Airport, the nation’s primary gateway, will serve as the testing ground for the program. Should the pilot prove successful, officials plan to roll out the system to other key hubs, including Sharm el-Sheikh, Hurghada, and Luxor, further streamlining access to Egypt’s iconic destinations.

The initiative targets travelers from countries already eligible for Egypt’s e-visa program, particularly those in Europe, North America, and the Middle East. By reducing friction at entry points, the government aims to bolster a tourism sector that accounts for roughly 12% of Egypt’s GDP and is a vital source of foreign currency.

The move positions Egypt alongside other tech-forward destinations leveraging digital transformation to compete in the global tourism market. Industry experts say the system could enhance Egypt’s reputation for accessibility, a critical factor as the country vies to meet its bold economic and tourism goals.

As Egypt modernizes its infrastructure, the e-visa pilot signals a broader commitment to innovation, with potential ripple effects for economic growth and global competitiveness. The success of this initiative could set a precedent for other nations looking to balance tourism growth with operational efficiency.

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