Writing in Al-Ahram, he calls for tourism growth that delivers stronger local economies, quality jobs, and a greater role for Egyptians abroad.

TN News — Egypt’s tourism success should be measured not only by how many visitors arrive, but by the lasting benefits they bring to communities, businesses, and the wider economy, Dr. Sameh Aboul-Enein argues in a recent opinion article.

Published on September 10, 2026, in Ahram Online, his article, “Egypt’s tourism edge,” examines how Egypt can turn its cultural heritage, coastal destinations, and international appeal into broader economic opportunities.

Aboul-Enein points to visitor spending, longer stays, return visits, and quality employment as essential measures of progress. His argument places local communities at the center of tourism development, emphasizing that growth should support nearby businesses rather than remain concentrated within individual resorts.

A Greater Role for Egyptians Abroad

One of the article’s key proposals is to involve the Egyptian diaspora more actively in tourism promotion and investment.

Aboul-Enein highlights the professional, academic, business, and social connections of Egyptians living overseas as valuable resources. Their contribution, he explains, extends beyond financial investment to expertise, cultural exchange, and relationships that can introduce Egypt to new audiences.

He also calls for greater attention to travelers from the United States, Canada, and Australia. For these long-distance markets, he advocates varied itineraries that bring together historical sites, Nile experiences, coastal destinations, and distinctive hospitality.

Connecting Heritage With Opportunity

The article identifies the Grand Egyptian Museum as an important addition to Egypt’s cultural appeal, while emphasizing opportunities beyond archaeological tourism. These include wellness travel, conferences, nature-based experiences, and the development of Mediterranean destinations.

Dr.Aboul-Enein argues that reliable transport between tourism centers and consistent service throughout the visitor journey are essential to realizing this potential. He also stresses that development should support the protection of cultural and natural assets by bringing tangible benefits to surrounding communities.

His analysis presents tourism as more than an economic sector. By encouraging direct encounters with Egyptian society, it can also strengthen cultural understanding and relationships across borders.

The central message is clear: attracting visitors is only the beginning. Egypt’s next opportunity lies in turning those visits into lasting prosperity and stronger international connections.

This report summarizes Dr. Sameh Aboul-Enein’s published commentary in Ahram Online; it is not based on an interview with TN News.