Egypt hosted a historic number of tourists last year —15.7 million, despite regional challenges — surpassing records set in 2023 and 2010. Around the city of Luxor, Cairo-based photojournalist Hamada Elrasam captured newly unearthed antiquities showcased this month. Captions by Elle Kurancid.
With tourism booming, Egypt showcases new discoveries from its ancient past
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Egypt’s Supreme Council of Antiquities calls its mission with the Zahi Hawass Foundation “the first major archaeological breakthrough of 2025,” after three years of work amid one of the world’s driest and hottest climates. (Hamada Elrasam/VOA)
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Mohamed Othman, chairman of the Cultural Tourism Marketing Committee, says the war in Gaza has impacted tourist flows to Egypt, "but we’ve seen an 18.5% increase in 2024 reservations and project 20.5% for this year." (Hamada Elrasam/VOA)
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The 14th edition of the Luxor African Film Festival, with entries from over 20 countries, opens at Luxor Temple. Mahmoud Hemeida, honorary president, says, “We hold the festival in Luxor to promote our heritage and city.” (Hamada Elrasam/VOA)
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Egyptian and Sudanese singers join at the opening ceremony, Jan. 9, 2025. Festival founders chose Luxor's open-air museum for its location. (Hamada Elrasam/VOA)
