Published on
August 24, 2025
By: Rana Pratap
Record tourism growth is witnessed in 2025, in Africa and the Middle East as Egypt joins South Africa, Morocco, Cyprus, Mauritius, Tanzania, and Kenya which are at the forefront of this growth. All the countries reported in the first half of the year, increased visitor arrivals in the safaris, beaches, and cultural sectors by expanding their flights and funding infrastructure such as hotels, resorts, and airports. Such factors are contributing to the reason this part of the world has become one of the fastest and unique growing travel hotspots in the worldby defining a once in a lifetime booming tourism surge. That is the new report you should know, Egypt joins this momentum along South Africa, Morocco, Cyprus, Mauritius, Tanzania, and Kenya.
Egypt is stunning the world with its Red Sea resorts, Nile cruises, and flourishing cultural circuits. South Africa follows the trend with record safari bookings and growth in the Cape Winelands. Morocco is witnessing growth as hotel occupancy and flight connections reach new heights in Marrakech and Casablanca. Mauritius is experiencing the growth with luxury resorts, island getaways, and record levels of honeymoon tourism. Tanzania is witnessing growth with tourism in Serengeti and Zanzibar hitting new heights. Kenya is experiencing the growth with more international arrivals in Nairobi, Maasai Mara, and the coastal regions. Cyprus is joining the African leaders by accepting an unprecedented number of visitors from Europe and the Middle East.
Egypt: Red Sea, Nile and North Coast Growth
In the first half of 2025, Egypt received 8.7 million tourists, marking a 24% increase from the previous year. Much of this growth comes from the Red Sea and Nile cruises which remain popular. Hurghada, Sharm El Sheikh and Luxor are receiving unprecedented tourist traffic. By the year-end government expectation of 18 million visitors seems to be on track.
In addition to the traditional offerings, Egypt is developing the North Coast as a luxury destination. Projects such as Ras El Hekma and SouthMED aim to position the region as a world-class attraction. Prime Minister Mostafa Madbouly has set bold goals including: 10 million tourists to the North Coast and the construction of 60,000 hotel rooms. Egypt also plans to increase total arrivals to 30 million by 2030, including the construction of new airports, hotels, and sustainable cities.
Egypt – Timeless Wonders Await
Things to Do
- Cruise along the Nile with sunset views of ancient temples.
- Dive or snorkel in the Red Sea’s coral reefs.
- Wander through Cairo’s bustling bazaars.
Places to Visit
- Pyramids of Giza & Sphinx.
- Luxor’s Valley of the Kings.
- Sharm El Sheikh & Hurghada resorts.
South Africa: Safari and Urban Rebound
South Africa is leading the recovery effort with urban hubs and safari parks stemming the losses. Onwards from May 2025 onwards, arrivals reached 804,163 (+23.8%), followed by 750,177 in June which is a 17% increase. These gains are bolstered by better access. Cape Town International Airport is adding more flights to and from Europe and North America.
The urban experience is gaining in popularity, but South Africa is still a wildlife tourism top destination. The wine routes in Cape Town, the cultural districts in Johannesburg, and the coastal attractions in Durban are gaining global notoriety. International travelers are taking advantage of the weaker rand, making South Africa more affordable. The development of MICE tourism is also supported by the government’s promotion of leisure and business tourism events.
South Africa – Adventure at Every Turn
Things to Do
- Go on a Big Five safari in Kruger National Park.
- Drive the scenic Garden Route.
- Sample award-winning wines in Stellenbosch.
Places to Visit
- Cape Town & Table Mountain.
- Robben Island.
- Johannesburg’s Apartheid Museum.
Morocco: Historic Highs
Morocco is one of the fastest growing travel destinations in Africa. The country is projected to host 8.9 million tourists in the first half of 2025, a nearly 20% increase from the previous year. By June, the revenue had reached 54 billion Moroccan Dirhams, an indication that tourists are visiting and spending additional money compared to the previous year.
Marrakech and Casablanca are still in the lead, but Fez, Tangier, and Agadir are also experiencing strong growth. Morocco is developing desert tourism; rich travelers are attracted to the luxurious camping sites in the Sahara. Investment is being directed toward eco tourism and the country’s cultural and historical legacy. Morocco is poised to surpass the 17 million visitor target by 2026, especially with new and existing travel routes to the Gulf and European states.
Morocco – Where Culture Meets Colour
Things to Do
- Stroll through Marrakech’s souks.
- Experience a camel ride in the Sahara.
- Enjoy Moroccan cuisine in a traditional riad.
Places to Visit
- Marrakech’s Jemaa el-Fnaa square.
- Chefchaouen’s blue medina.
- Fes & Meknes imperial cities.
Mauritius: Luxury Island Momentum
Although Mauritius experienced a sluggish beginning in early 2025, the island began to regain its momentum by summer. In July, the country recorded its best-ever month welcoming 129,206 visitors. Arrivals between January and July totaled 788,115, reflecting a 3.3% increase in comparison to the previous year. Therefore, tourism continues to be crucial to Mauritius as it accounts for more than 20% of the economy.
The island is focusing its efforts in these areas: luxury, sustainability, and wellness tourism. The visitor mix is dominated by honeymooners, golfers, and wellness tourists. New campaigns which aim to diversify tourism beyond Europe are now targeting Asia and Africa. Eco-luxury hotels, green resorts, and marine protection are central to the island’s new strategies. The balance of luxury and sustainability is helping keep Mauritius competitive.
Mauritius – Island of Luxury and Relaxation
Things to Do
- Relax on pristine beaches.
- Snorkel or dive in turquoise lagoons.
- Explore sugar plantations and rum distilleries.
Places to Visit
- Grand Baie.
- Chamarel Seven Coloured Earths.
- Black River Gorges National Park.
Tanzania: Safaris and Zanzibar Splendour
The mainland of Tanzania recorded an influx of 794,102 tourists from January to May in 2025, reflecting an increase of 3.7%. By June, the expenditure figure also revealed robust spending, recording strong tourism receipts of $7.11 billion. The iconic parks, including Serengeti and Ngorongoro Crater, continue to steer Safari tourism, the demand for which is increasing from the US, Europe, and Asia.
Zanzibar is witnessing the same growth. It recorded its highest arrivals in July 2025. Tourists visit for Spice Tours and the world-class beaches. Furthermore, the government is expanding airports and ports which is a positive sign. Tanzania is promoting itself as a 365 day destination which offers great wildlife, beautiful beaches, and rich in culture.
Tanzania – Nature’s Untamed Paradise
Things to Do
- Witness the Great Migration in Serengeti.
- Climb Mount Kilimanjaro.
- Relax on Zanzibar’s beaches.
Places to Visit
- Ngorongoro Crater.
- Serengeti National Park.
- Stone Town, Zanzibar.
Kenya: Visa-Free Growth
Between January and May of 2025, Kenya recorded 922,961 arrivals, a 2.3% increase compared to the previous year. Nairobi’s prominence as a gateway hub and Nairobi’s connections to Europe, the Middle East, and Asia have bolstered this growth. Moreover, the visa-free entry system introduced in 2024 further strengthens this trend.
While the Maasai Mara and Amboseli remain iconic global safari destinations, Kenya is enhancing its appeal along the coast. Cultural tourism in Mombasa and Lamu features stunning beaches and world-class diving. Digital nomad visas and long-stay tourism are also being promoted. Kenya’s consistent growth demonstrates the impact of policy shifts as well as the range of attractions available.
Kenya – Heart of African Safaris
Things to Do
- Experience a hot-air balloon safari over Maasai Mara.
- Learn Maasai culture in local villages.
- Discover coastal Swahili history.
Places to Visit
- Maasai Mara National Reserve.
- Nairobi National Park.
- Diani Beach.
Cyprus: Mediterranean Comeback
In 2025, Cyprus became one of Europe’s fastest-growing destinations. Tourist arrivals reached 1.84 million in H1 2025, marking an 11.5% increase year on year. In June 2025, arrivals reached 498,527, an increase of 3.4% year on year. By July, the total had reached 2.43 million visitors, demonstrating a 10.4% increase.
The UK remains the top source market with 626,004 arrivals (+10.1%). Israel showed strong growth at 210,220 arrivals (+31.6%), while Poland contributed 158,208 (+7.7%). Cyprus had one of the highest growth rates in international aviation passenger traffic in Europe, with an increase of 11% in H1. Larnaka Airport alone had an 18% increase. The island is not just relying on summer tourism; the additional winter sports, wellness, and heritage tours are enriching the offer.
Cyprus – Mediterranean Bliss
Things to Do
- Relax on golden beaches.
- Tour ancient ruins and medieval castles.
- Taste Cypriot wines and mezze.
Places to Visit
- Paphos Archaeological Park.
- Troodos Mountains.
- Ayia Napa beaches.
Why 2025 Is Different
The 2025 boom is driven by five major factors. First, international travel is recovering at a greater pace. Customers are paying for lengthier and more expensive stays. Second, the infrastructure is getting better, which includes the resorts on Egypt’s North Coast and the airports in Tanzania. Third, travel is getting easier due to changes in policies like the no visa entry to Kenya.
Last, there is an increase in marketing and advertising campaigns. The regions are being promoted as multi-faceted, safe, and exhilarating. The amalgamated impact is obvious; Africa alongside the Middle East and Cyprus are some of the regions with the fastest growth in tourism in the whole world.
Outlook
The latter half of 2025 appears poised to break all previous records. Egypt anticipates 18 million visitors this year. Morocco and South Africa are expected to post double-digit growth. Mauritius, Tanzania and Zanzibar are at the peak of their seasons. Cyprus is also breaking records of both arrivals and air passengers.
By the end of the year, the combination of Africa, the Middle East and Cyprus are likely to surpass 50 million arrivals by 2025 cementing their status as leaders in global tourism. This growth potential is expected to persist into 2026 and further, backed by new projects, sustainable approaches, and better connectivity.
Egypt joins South Africa, Morocco, Mauritius, Tanzania, Kenya and Cyprus in a record-breaking tourism boom shaping 2025, as double-digit growth in arrivals, easier visas, stronger air links and massive investment in hotels and airports push the region to become one of the world’s fastest-growing travel hubs.
Conclusion
Egypt, South Africa, Morocco, Mauritius, Tanzania, Kenya, and Cyprus are crafting a tourism narrative of worldwide significance. While each country possesses its distinct advantages, in unison, they weave a compelling tale of development, determination, and collective achievement.
This surge is not solely focused on tourists. It generates employment opportunities, enhances investment, and cultivates culture. From cruises on the Nile to the islands of the Indian Ocean, and from safaris to the Mediterranean beaches, these regions are demonstrating that Africa, the Middle East, and Cyprus have become the epicenter of world tourism.
