Egypt made a strong emergence on the global tourism map this year, yet the rankings it secured in international classifications varied significantly depending on the assessment methodology and criteria used.
In the annual US News & World Report ranking, Egypt achieved a commendable ninth place globally among the best countries for tourism in 2025.
This achievement reflects its powerful presence in international consciousness as a comprehensive travel destination.
The UN Tourism Organization report meanwhile celebrated Egypt’s performance based on interim figures: in the first quarter of 2025, Egypt surged to the 10th position globally in terms of the annual increase in tourist arrivals, registering 21 percent growth compared to the same period in 2024.
However, the ranking issued by CEOWORLD Magazine for the Best Travel Destinations of 2025 has sparked considerable debate, placing Egypt at a controversial 24th globally, behind many competing nations, despite the country making tangible progress in regional and Arab classifications.
The disparity doesn’t end there – the Kensington luxury travel report for 2025 on travel trends awarded Egypt the fourth global ranking as the best destination for solo travel, underscoring its appeal to individual travelers seeking unique experiences.
This pronounced variation demonstrates that Egypt’s standing in tourism classifications is not fixed.
Instead, it is highly influenced by whether a specific report focuses on cultural aspects, growth in visitor numbers, or niche trends like solo travel.
Expert weighs in on scientific vs. inaccurate classifications
The Chief Tour Organizer for Misr Tourism, Ibrahim Abdel Rahman, said that every classification is subject to various indicators and criteria.
He explained that these rankings fall into two categories: the first is built upon undeniable scientific foundations and standards, while the second, issued by certain entities, magazines, and platforms, is often less precise and frequently inaccurate.
However, the US News & World Report ranking is viewed as one of the most important because it relies on a blend of criteria encompassing culture, heritage, tourist attraction, comfort, and infrastructure, alongside economic and media considerations.
Egypt, with its unique Pharaonic heritage, museums, and countless ancient sites, benefits from positive assessments across cultural sections.
Regardless, a powerful representation of heritage does not always guarantee an advanced ranking when compared against infrastructure challenges or actual visitor satisfaction.
Abdel Rahman added that Egypt’s tenth-place ranking in the first quarter of 2025 establishes a temporary success in attracting tourists, and is a promising indicator of Egypt’s ability to overcome the repercussions of previous crises or regional tourism volatility.
The 21 percent increase demonstrates that marketing efforts and service improvements are beginning to yield results.
As for comprehensive lists, such as the CEOWORLD ranking, he clarified that Egypt’s 24th position is determined by factors such as geographical diversity, quality of services, sustainability, and travel cost, all of which play a significant role in the evaluation.
While this ranking shows Egypt is ahead of many countries, it still faces considerable competition from destinations that successfully combine modernity with an integrated tourist experience.
Solo travel advantage
In the specific ranking for solo travel, Egypt achieved the fourth global position.
Abdel Rahman noted that this highlights a distinct advantage for Egypt as an attractive destination for “solo travelers” seeking rich experiences, relative safety, and acceptable costs.
He suggested this unique distinction could become a strong marketing point to significantly boost the solo travel sector.
Infrastructure and services are crucial factors for improving Egypt’s standing in major destination lists, he stressed.
Path forward
There is also a pressing need to develop transportation networks, airports, and hotels, while facilitating internal movement.
He suggested that intensive, targeted marketing focused on solo travelers and backpackers could lift Egypt’s ranking in specific categories and build a distinct reputation.
In addition to these steps, he advised against overlooking ecotourism, health tourism, and adventure tourism, all of which could increase Egypt’s appeal in multi-faceted classifications.
Sustaining performance and steadily increasing visitor numbers year-round while maintaining this current momentum, is essential for securing a higher ranking in the major annual classifications.
Abdel Rahman concluded by clarifying that Egypt is being evaluated across multiple frameworks: in some, it ranks ninth, while in others it sits at 24th place.
Yet, in many aspects—particularly solo travel—it is emerging as a distinguishing force.
Egypt’s ultimate success in solidifying a top position in the major 2025 rankings hinges on its ability to effectively blend its ancient heritage with continuous modernization of its services and a sustainable visitor experience.
