Egypt Aims to Become Regional Tourism Powerhouse, Foreign Minister Reveals in Bangkok

Egypt is embarking on an ambitious plan to establish itself as a premier regional tourism hub. This strategy involves significant upgrades to airports, modernization of the national air transport fleet, and enhanced connectivity with global markets, according to Minister of Foreign Affairs, International Cooperation and Egyptian Expatriates Badr Abdelatty.

Abdelatty shared these plans during a meeting in Bangkok on Monday, October 12, 2026, with William Heinecke, the Chairman of Minor International. Minor International, a prominent hospitality and restaurant group based in the Asia-Pacific region, is looking to expand its investments in Egypt, particularly within the tourism and hospitality sectors, capitalizing on the promising opportunities available in the Egyptian market.

The Egyptian government, represented by Abdelatty, expressed keen interest in collaborating with Minor International on developing vocational and technical training programs. The goal is to cultivate a skilled Egyptian workforce for the hotel and tourism industries. This initiative is expected to address the growing demand for labor, attract a larger influx of tourists, especially from Asian markets, and bolster Egypt's competitive edge as a global tourist destination, aligning with international standards.

The Foreign Minister welcomed Minor International's expansion plans in Egypt. He highlighted a significant partnership agreement inked with an Egyptian company in October 2025, which was witnessed by the prime minister, and the recent launch of a residential and hotel units project along the Red Sea coast.

Abdelatty reiterated the Egyptian government's steadfast support for such investment partnerships. He conveyed his hope that Minor International would diversify its investment portfolio within Egypt and extend its cooperation to other tourist destinations. Additionally, he pointed to the investment prospects presented by Egypt's development of new cities, including the New Capital and New Alamein City.