As with many economically developing countries, tourism is an industry crucial to the health of the Egyptian economy. It provides direct and indirect employment to 12.6% of the country’s workforce. After foreign investment it is the country’s largest source of foreign revenue, bringing in $10.8 billion in 2007–08 and accounting for 6.5% of the gross domestic product (GDP). Today 12–13 million tourists visit Egypt each year to participate in either (or both) of the following.
Culture tourism provides an experience of the wonders of ancient Egypt. The civilisation began around 3150 BC and lasted 3,000 years. It thrived from its ability to adapt to the conditions of the Nile valley (see map on the back page). Controlled irrigation of the fertile valley produced surplus crops, which allowed social and cultural development. The ancient Egyptians developed writing, trade, medicines and an elaborate system of religious beliefs. Their many achievements included a system of mathematics, quarrying, surveying and construction techniques that facilitated the building of monumental pyramids, temples, tombs and statues — a legacy of art and architecture that tourists flock to see.
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