Egypt has now digitized entry for visitors to 78 archaeological sites, museums

CAIRO: The Egyptian Ministry of Tourism and Antiquities has said that entry to 78 archaeological sites and museums has now been digitized, with efforts still taking place to complete the transformation of all archaeological sites across the country.

The ministry has stressed its commitment to enhancing the tourist experience — particularly at archaeological sites and museums — which forms a key aspect of Egypt’s national tourism strategy.

This initiative ensures visitors receive the promised quality experience while maintaining the highest standards of security, safety, and health.

Sherif Khaled, an Egyptian archaeological expert, told Arab News: “The digitization of such a significant number of archaeological sites is extremely important. It greatly facilitates tourists’ access to services provided by these sites, from booking tickets to visiting the sites.”

Khaled elaborated on the electronic payment service for museum and archaeological site tickets, launched in 2021, which has seen considerable success and a substantial increase in the number of tickets sold online during this period.

He said: “Previously, all transactions were cash-based until 2021. Our collaboration has successfully transitioned to electronic payment methods which, as of early 2024, account for 99.6 percent of total collections. This shift has improved the speed and accuracy of transaction processing, making it easier for both Egyptian and foreign visitors.”

According to the ministry, the number of electronically-sold tickets was 178,554 in 2021; 7,819,703 in 2022; 18,842,234 in 2023; and 6,396,231 in the first four months of the current year.

Yumna Al-Falahi, an official at one of Egypt’s archaeological museums, told Arab News: “At the museum where I work, there are self-service machines for purchasing entrance tickets. This facility is available at several archaeological sites and museums, allowing visitors to buy tickets using their bank cards. This channel provides a new way to purchase tickets, in addition to buying them at ticket sales counters at museum entrances and through the Ministry of Tourism and Antiquities’ official website.

“The machines were introduced at the Egyptian Museum in Tahrir Square this June, following their earlier implementation at the Valley of the Kings, the Pyramids of Giza, and the Karnak Temple.

“There is a proposal to develop a mobile app that would allow users to book entry visas to Egypt and all tourist services, including booking tickets for archaeological sites and museums via their phones, linked to the online booking system.

“The app would also allow booking of hotels and tourist restaurants, among other services, and provide a calendar of various cultural events organized and hosted in Egypt, along with promotional materials about different tourist destinations within the country. This app would make it significantly easier for tourists to enjoy their time in Egypt.”