Egypt desperate to revive coronavirus-hit tourism industry

Egypt desperate to revive coronavirus-hit tourism industry

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AFP







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Tourism is said to account for more than 12% of Egypt's GDP





A wonder of the world, the pyramids at Giza have wowed visitors for millennia. But they were deserted as the coronavirus pandemic laid waste to Egypt's tourism industry and millions of people's livelihoods.

Although this ancient site reopened on 1 July - with new compulsory temperature checks and social distancing at the entrance - only a few locals come by.

A pigeon perched on the face of the regal, reclining Sphinx, is its solitary guest.

"It's been so hard for everyone. We've spent four months at home," says Ashraf Nasr, who has been offering camel rides to sightseers for 25 years. "Each camel needs 100 Egyptian pounds ($6; £5) a day for food."

He was forced to sell two of his animals so that he could feed his family, as was another owner, Hamdi Mohammed.

"How could I afford to look after the camels and my children?" Mr Mohammed asks. "I need to pay out for nursery fees and nappies."











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Reuters







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Tourists have not returned in large numbers to the