In 2025, Africa, the Middle East, and Cyprus have emerged as the world’s most dynamic and fastest-growing tourism regions, driven by a surge in visitor arrivals, strategic infrastructure investments, and bold policy reforms. Egypt has joined South Africa, Morocco, Mauritius, Tanzania, Kenya, and Cyprus at the forefront of this boom, each country showcasing its unique blend of natural beauty, cultural richness, and modern hospitality. From the Red Sea resorts and Nile cruises of Egypt to the safaris of South Africa and Tanzania, and the island escapes of Mauritius and Cyprus, the region is redefining global travel with record-breaking momentum.
Egypt’s tourism renaissance is particularly striking, with 8.7 million visitors in the first half of the year—a 24% increase—thanks to the popularity of Hurghada, Sharm El Sheikh, and Luxor. The government’s ambitious plans for the North Coast, including luxury developments like Ras El Hekma and SouthMED, aim to attract 10 million tourists and build 60,000 hotel rooms, with a broader goal of reaching 30 million arrivals by 2030. South Africa is also rebounding strongly, with over 1.5 million arrivals in May and June alone, driven by expanded flight access, affordable travel costs, and a growing interest in urban experiences alongside traditional wildlife safaris. Cape Town’s wine routes, Johannesburg’s cultural districts, and Durban’s coastal charm are drawing global attention.
Morocco is experiencing historic highs, with nearly 9 million tourists in the first half of the year and revenues reaching 54 billion Moroccan Dirhams. While Marrakech and Casablanca remain central, cities like Fez, Tangier, and Agadir are rising, and desert tourism in the Sahara is attracting luxury travelers. Eco-tourism and cultural heritage are becoming key pillars of Morocco’s strategy, supported by expanding flight routes to Europe and the Gulf. Mauritius, after a slow start, has regained its stride with a record-breaking July and over 788,000 arrivals by mid-year. The island’s focus on luxury, wellness, and sustainability is paying off, with eco-resorts and marine conservation efforts enhancing its appeal to honeymooners and wellness seekers.
Tanzania continues to thrive with over 794,000 visitors from January to May and strong tourism receipts of $7.11 billion. The Serengeti and Ngorongoro Crater remain iconic safari destinations, while Zanzibar’s beaches and spice tours are drawing unprecedented crowds. Infrastructure upgrades, including new airports and ports, are reinforcing Tanzania’s position as a year-round destination. Kenya’s visa-free policy, introduced in 2024, has boosted arrivals to over 922,000 in the first five months of 2025. Nairobi’s role as a regional hub, combined with the allure of Maasai Mara, Mombasa, and Lamu, is expanding Kenya’s reach. The country is also promoting digital nomad visas and long-stay tourism, diversifying its visitor base.
Cyprus, though geographically distinct, is aligning with Africa’s tourism leaders through rapid growth and strategic positioning. With 2.43 million visitors by July and double-digit increases in aviation traffic, the island is attracting travelers from the UK, Israel, and Poland. Beyond summer tourism, Cyprus is investing in winter sports, wellness retreats, and heritage tours, broadening its seasonal appeal and solidifying its status as a Mediterranean gem.
The exceptional growth in 2025 is underpinned by five key drivers: a robust recovery in global travel, longer and more luxurious stays, improved infrastructure, simplified visa policies, and aggressive marketing campaigns. These regions are being promoted as safe, diverse, and exhilarating destinations, and the results are clear. Egypt, Morocco, and South Africa are on track for double-digit growth, while Mauritius, Tanzania, and Cyprus are breaking records in arrivals and spending. Collectively, Africa, the Middle East, and Cyprus are expected to surpass 50 million tourist arrivals by year-end, setting a new benchmark in global tourism.
This surge is more than a statistical triumph—it is a transformative movement that is reshaping economies, creating jobs, and celebrating cultural heritage. From the Nile to the Indian Ocean, and from the savannahs to the Mediterranean coast, these destinations are proving that tourism can be both a driver of development and a celebration of identity. As 2025 unfolds, the region’s unified momentum signals a new era in travel, one defined by innovation, inclusivity, and unforgettable experiences.