The inauguration of Egypt’s tourist office in Abu Dhabi will help in attracting more tourists to Egypt, said Minister of Tourism Khaled Ramy on Monday.

Thorough market studies had preceded the step, Ramy said.

The number of Arab tourists visiting Egypt grew by 22% during the first six months of this year, compared with the same period last year, he said.

Last year, tourism contributed 9 per cent of the country’s GDP, down from 15 per cent in 2010. By 2018, the contribution is expected to rise to 25 per cent.