Egyptian Official Confident $5 Visa Hike Won't Deter Travelers

Cairo, Feb 28 – A top Egyptian tourism official has dismissed concerns that a modest increase in visa fees will impact the country's vital tourism sector. The cost of a single-entry tourist visa rose from $25 to $30 on March 1.

Ahmed al-Sheikh, head of tourism and hotel operations for South Sinai province, told reporters the five-dollar rise is not significant enough to change travelers' plans. "I do not believe an increase from $25 to $30 will cause tourists to cancel a trip to Egypt," he stated. "Five dollars is not a large figure."

The increase, confirmed by Egypt's Chamber of Tourist Companies and Agencies, is expected to generate approximately $50 million in additional state revenue. Al-Sheikh acknowledged some visitors who booked trips before the announcement may be frustrated, but he is confident overall tourist numbers will remain strong.

The hike concludes a period of uncertainty. Last December, Egypt's Ministry of Tourism and Antiquities clarified that no decision had been made to raise the fee to $45, despite parliamentary approval of amendments allowing for an additional $20 service charge. The approved legislation only set a maximum possible fee. Fearing a negative impact, tourism chambers had lobbied successfully against the larger increase, which was ultimately not implemented. President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi gave final approval to the law containing the amended fee structure in early December 2025.