Egyptian Civil Aviation Minister Dr. Samah Hefny participated in the first edition of the "Al-Ahram Tourism Forum," held at the National Museum of Egyptian Civilization. The event, themed "Egyptian Tourism: From Diversifying Destinations to Enhancing Global Competitiveness," coincided with World Tourism Day. The forum brought together key stakeholders, including parliamentarians, industry experts, and private sector representatives, to discuss strategies for growth in Egypt's tourism sector.
Minister Hefny engaged in two panel discussions focusing on the integration of the aviation and tourism sectors. He highlighted that developing Egypt's tourism product requires collaboration among various sectors, including aviation, tourism, transportation, and marketing. This integrated approach would enable the conversion of Egypt's diverse tourist destinations into comprehensive, marketable packages.
Hefny stressed that the quality of Egypt's tourism product is closely tied to the efficiency of its air transport system. He noted that the development of new destinations, such as the city of El-Alamein, necessitates a cohesive approach encompassing airport infrastructure, airline networks, and services. This, in turn, would create an environment conducive to growth in air traffic and tourism.
The minister outlined the government's efforts to enhance the capabilities of national airlines, expand air connectivity, and upgrade airports. These initiatives aim to increase tourist traffic, open new markets, and create more routes. Hefny also emphasized the importance of encouraging private sector participation in various aviation activities.
Discussions at the forum also centered on developing digital travel systems, streamlining arrival and departure procedures, and implementing biometric solutions. These measures are expected to improve the travel experience and facilitate the movement of tourists. The government is working to create a more efficient and attractive environment for investors in the aviation sector.
The second panel discussion, titled "Aviation and Airports: Ease of Access," focused on enhancing airport infrastructure and air services. Participants, including Tourism Minister Sharif Fathy and Egyptian Airports Company CEO Wail El-Nashar, emphasized the need for synchronized growth in airport capacity and airline networks to accommodate increasing tourist traffic.
Minister Hefny concluded by highlighting the importance of balancing quantitative growth in tourist traffic with quality services and efficient operations. He emphasized that the civil aviation sector plays a vital role in supporting economic growth, trade, and logistics, extending beyond its primary function of transporting passengers.
Key points
- Egyptian Civil Aviation Minister Dr. Samah Hefny emphasizes air connectivity and airport efficiency to boost tourism.
- The government is working to enhance airport infrastructure, expand air connectivity, and encourage private sector participation in aviation activities.
- Developing Egypt's tourism product requires a cohesive approach encompassing various sectors, including aviation, tourism, and transportation.
