The Egyptian government has announced that the country continues to dominate the African hotel market for the ninth consecutive year. According to data released by the Information Center of the Council of Ministers, Egypt has 185 hotels and 46,000 rooms under construction as of 2026. This represents a significant increase from 2025, when 143 hotels with 33,900 rooms were under construction. The growth in the hotel sector is a positive indicator for Egypt's tourism industry.
The Information Center's infographics also highlighted the growth of Egypt's tourism sector, despite regional tensions. The number of tourists visiting Egypt from January to August 2026 reached 12.7 million, up from 12.2 million during the same period in 2025. Additionally, tourism revenues increased to $12 billion during the first eight months of 2026, compared to $11.8 billion in the same period of 2025. These numbers demonstrate the resilience of Egypt's tourism industry.
The World Travel & Tourism Council forecasts that Egypt's tourism sector will grow by 3% in 2026, despite geopolitical tensions. The council expects the sector's GDP to reach $35.4 billion in 2026, up from $34.4 billion in 2025. The number of people employed in the sector is also expected to increase to 3.03 million in 2026, from 2.97 million in 2025. These projections indicate a positive outlook for Egypt's tourism industry.
According to the International Monetary Fund, Egypt's tourism sector has remained resilient despite regional uncertainty. The fund forecasts that tourism revenues will increase from $19.9 billion in 2025/2026 to $20.8 billion in 2026/2027, then to $22.9 billion in 2027/2028, and $25.4 billion in 2028/2029. The sector is expected to continue growing, with revenues reaching $27.9 billion in 2029/2030 and $29.8 billion in 2030/2031.
Egypt's hotel sector has seen significant growth in recent years. In 2024, there were 109 hotels with 26,200 rooms under construction, while in 2023, there were 103 hotels with 24,900 rooms. In 2022, there were 85 hotels with 21,300 rooms, and in 2021, there were 67 hotels with 19,300 rooms. The growth in the hotel sector is driven by increasing demand for accommodation from tourists visiting Egypt.
The Egyptian government has been working to promote tourism and improve the country's infrastructure. The growth of the tourism sector is expected to have a positive impact on the economy, creating jobs and generating revenue. The government's efforts to promote tourism are likely to continue, with a focus on attracting more visitors to the country.
Egypt's dominance of the African hotel market is a testament to the country's strong tourism industry. With 185 hotels and 46,000 rooms under construction, Egypt is well-positioned to continue its growth in the sector. The country's tourism industry is expected to remain resilient, despite regional tensions, and continue to contribute to the economy.
Key points
- Egypt has 185 hotels and 46,000 rooms under construction as of 2026.
- The World Travel & Tourism Council forecasts 3% growth in Egypt's tourism sector in 2026.
- Tourism revenues are expected to increase to $29.8 billion by 2030/2031.
