Cairo hosts inaugural Cruise Egypt Forum to advance maritime tourism strategy

   May 31, 2025 ,   Cruise Industry

On June 1–2, 2025, Cairo will host the inaugural Cruise Egypt Forum under the theme “Navigate Egyptian Legacy.”

This event marks Egypt’s first national forum dedicated to cruise tourism, aiming to position the country as a central hub in the global cruise industry by leveraging its strategic location and rich cultural heritage. 

Organized in collaboration with the Suez Canal Authority and supported by regional and international partners, the forum will convene high-level government officials, senior executives from global cruise lines, port operators, logistics companies, and maritime transport specialists. The objective is to transform Egypt’s strategic ports—from Alexandria and Port Said on the Mediterranean to Safaga and Ain Sokhna on the Red Sea—into essential nodes in international cruise itineraries. 

The forum aligns with Egypt’s Vision 2030, which targets attracting 30 million tourists annually by 2028, with a targeted annual growth rate of 25–30%.

Cruise tourism has been identified as one of the fastest-growing and most promising sectors, offering high-end, culturally rich, and sustainable experiences that align with global travel trends. 

Sessions will focus on port development, sustainable tourism practices, destination marketing, and integrating cruise activity into Egypt’s broader economic and tourism strategies. The event will also highlight key investment opportunities in developing ports, islands, and supporting services for maritime tourism. 

As part of the forum’s agenda, international guests will participate in a cultural program, including visits to the Grand Egyptian Museum and Khan El Khalili, providing a firsthand experience of Cairo’s tourism assets. 

By hosting the Cruise Egypt Forum, the country takes a significant step toward strengthening its position as a strategic center for cruise tourism in the Middle East and North Africa, reinforcing its commitment to sustainable development and tourism innovation.