Egypt Strikes Back Against Travel Criticism Amid Tourism Goals

In response to a blogger’s harsh critique of Cairo Airport, Egypt’s government published a lengthy defense highlighting its ongoing tourism strategies and future developments aimed at increasing visitor numbers to 30 million by 2028.

Egypt's Civil Aviation Ministry recently found itself embroiled in a feud with travel blogger Ben Schlappig, whose unreserved critique of Cairo International Airport ignited a heated response from the government. In a scathing post on his site, One Mile at a Time, Schlappig depicted the airport as chaotic and poorly managed, labeling the staff as “actively hostile and rude” and expressing dissatisfaction with the facilities, including the dining options and lounges.

Schlappig's assessment was exacerbated by a pointed comparison to Ethiopia's airport—a contentious issue given the ongoing diplomatic tensions over the Nile water rights dispute. Frustrated by such negative representation, the Egyptian government launched a 1,100-word counterargument, referencing security footage in an attempt to dispute the blogger's claims, and questioning the plausibility of needing to visit multiple lounges before boarding a flight.

This backlash comes at a time when Egypt is ramping up its efforts to boost tourism numbers, setting a goal of attracting 30 million visitors annually by 2028. The tourism sector is pivotal for Egypt’s economy, providing employment for approximately one in twelve Egyptians and serving as a vital source of foreign currency amid ongoing economic struggles.

In an effort to rejuvenate its image, the Egyptian government is investing in luxury accommodations, revamping historic sites, and gradually opening a new museum beside the Great Pyramids of Giza, which has garnered favorable reviews. Despite the public spat with Schlappig, authorities remain focused on their long-term tourism ambitions and the broader goal of enhancing their international standing in the hospitality sector.