Egypt has long been a jewel of global tourism. The allure of the Pyramids, the majesty of the Nile, and the beauty of the Red Sea make it a bucket-list destination for millions around the world. Yet, while Egypt’s history and natural wonders are timeless, its tourism sector faces a very modern problem – TikTok. The platform, along with Reddit and other social media forums, is brimming with negative reviews from travel influencers and tourists who are increasingly viewing Egypt as a destination to avoid. On TikTok, viral videos from travel influencers – many of them women – complain about harassment, scams, and disorganization. Influencers are increasingly answering the question, “Where would you not go back to?” with one word: Egypt. These videos have reached hundreds of thousands of people, rapidly shaping perceptions of Egypt as a nightmare for tourists. From the Airport to the Pyramids, Tourists Complain of Chaos The complaints raised are significant. Women often report being harassed at historical sites like the Pyramids, intimidated by aggressive vendors and “guides” who offer unsolicited help, only to demand payment afterward. Roads leading to key sites, such as those in…
Egypt’s Tourism Sector Has a TikTok Problem – And It’s Time for Action
November 1, 2024
