Travel Behavior in Egypt

Egyptian Trip Planning: A Mix of Control and Support

At first glance, Egyptian travelers seem fairly independent, 40% say they plan their trips by themselves, while 41% use a mix of personal research and help from travel agencies. Unlike countries such as the Netherlands, where most travelers plan independently, or Saudi Arabia, where many rely heavily on travel agents, Egyptian travelers follow a slower, more careful rhythm. While people trust online platforms, they still value expert advice, especially when dealing with visas or unfamiliar destinations.

Egypt’s Outbound Journeys Stay Culturally and Geographically Close

This same focus on ease shows up in where they choose to go. Egypt’s most popular outbound destinations are nearby: 29% plan to travel within the Middle East, and 8% to North Africa. That means over one-third of travelers are staying within a familiar region. Visa rules, travel costs, and the comfort of shared language and culture make nearby countries feel much easier and safer to visit. For many, the idea of going somewhere unfamiliar feels tiring or complicated. That’s why places in the region, like the Gulf, Jordan, or Turkey, which offer Arabic-speaking staff, halal food, and cultural familiarity, feel more inviting.

Airlines that connect Egypt to regional hubs can expect more stable, year-round traffic, especially for family or religious holidays. Tourism boards in nearby countries have a clear incentive to double down on Arabic-language content, direct promotions in Egypt, and cross-border travel partnerships.

Relaxation Drives Travel Choices for Egyptians

Most Egyptians (50%) travel with one clear goal in mind: to relax. For many, travel is a break from the daily stress of life in places like Cairo or Alexandria, a time to rest, reset, and breathe.

One in five now choose health and well-being trips. These travelers seek spa retreats, yoga stays, or quiet escapes that help both body and mind recover. Meanwhile, 16% are turning to sports and adventure travel. For them, getting away means movement, challenge, and high-energy experiences, like diving, hiking, or exploring nature off the beaten path.

Given that, providers should consider designing and promoting these travel styles to better meet shifting preferences and capture demand as it grows.

Comfort Priorities Shift with Age in Egypt’s Travel Market

Egyptian travelers show a wide spread in their accommodation preferences with budget, premium, and deluxe options all receiving significant interest. Younger travelers (ages 18–34) tend to favor budget-friendly hotels as their top choice. They prioritize other travel experiences over accommodation. For these segments, affordability paired with basic comfort is key.

In contrast, older travelers, especially those aged 45 and above, show a much stronger preference for premium or 4- to 5-star hotels. This group is more likely to prioritize comfort, reliable service, and a peaceful stay. For them, accommodation is a core part of the relaxation experience.

This age-based split offers a valuable signal to travel businesses:

- Mid-range and upscale hotels should tailor their messaging to older Egyptian travelers who seek comfort, ease, and a quieter environment.

- Budget options should focus on younger segments, especially solo or group travelers, highlighting good value, clean facilities, and proximity to key attractions.

Serving Egyptian Travelers Requires Local Insight

When we look at the full picture, where Egyptians go, how they book, why they travel, and how they choose their hotels, the pattern is clear: the Egyptian traveler today is calm, comfort-focused, and stays close to what feels familiar. Many global companies try to apply the same strategy to every country, but Egypt needs something more local and more thoughtful. Clear booking platforms, familiar hotel options, Arabic-speaking support, and simple itineraries go a long way here. And instead of pushing bold adventures or complex tours, offering trips that feel light and easy will earn both trust and loyalty.