Egypt harnesses AI to enhance tourism experience and sustainability
Egypt is embracing cutting-edge technologies like artificial intelligence and augmented reality to transform its tourism sector, aiming to deliver unique experiences for visitors while promoting sustainable growth.
Dr. Yehia Abdel Qader, Counsellor at the Ministry of Tourism and Antiquities, discussed these advancements and their impact during a recent appearance on Nile TV International.
Dr. Abdel Qader explained that AI is an essential tool worldwide, supporting decision-making, management, and marketing in numerous industries, including tourism.
He pointed to international examples—such as Venice and Spain—where AI has been instrumental in addressing challenges related to over-tourism by helping manage the flow of visitors and reduce environmental impact.
“What’s important is that AI can be tailored to each country’s specific needs,” Dr. Abdel Qader noted, adding that for Egypt, this means finding a balance between growing tourism and protecting the nation’s unique heritage and environment.
Egypt is already making strides in adopting AI technologies. The Grand Egyptian Museum in Giza, one of the country’s most prominent new cultural landmarks, uses augmented reality applications to provide visitors with immersive and personalized experiences.
Similar technologies have been introduced at the Valley of the Kings and in museums across Egypt. Visitors can engage with these innovations through seminars, workshops, and virtual demonstrations of both AR and virtual reality (VR) tools.
Dr. Abdel Qader emphasized that AI also supports detailed data analysis, helping tourism officials forecast trends, identify emerging markets, and optimize strategies for marketing, promotion, and operations. By analyzing factors such as climate, Egypt’s wealth of historical antiquities, beach destinations on the Red Sea, and its diverse cuisine—including vegan options—AI helps Egypt target a broader range of international tourists.
“Egypt’s appeal lies in its year-round sunshine, ancient heritage, and vibrant culture. With AI, we can better understand and respond to the needs and interests of travelers from all over the world,” he concluded.