H.E. Mrs. Noha ElGebaly

The Ambassador
the Arab Republic of Egypt to Nepal

Visa convenience is crucial in encouraging tourism, and I want to assure Nepalese travellers that Egypt remains accessible.

I extend a warm invitation to all Nepalese tour operators to explore the immense potential that Egypt holds for your clients. Egypt is not just a destination – it’s a living, breathing experience.

What makes Egypt a unique and timeless travel destination?

Egypt holds the distinction of having the world’s oldest written history, dating back to around 6000 B.C., when early communities settled along the Nile. Unified under King Menes in 3100 B.C., Egypt flourished during the Pharaonic era for nearly 3,000 years, leaving a profound legacy in science, architecture, medicine, and the arts. This rich heritage continued through the Greco-Roman, Coptic, and Islamic periods, each adding layers to Egypt’s cultural identity.

Today, Egypt is a land where ancient wonders meet vibrant modern life. From the awe-inspiring pyramids of Giza and temples of Luxor to the serene Nile and the Valley of the Kings, history lives in every corner. But Egypt is also about its warm hospitality, colourful traditions, and breathtaking natural beauty—whether on the Red Sea coast, in the Western Desert, or in the lively streets of Cairo.

Egypt’s global tourism appeal lies in this rare combination of timeless history, cultural richness, and geographic significance. As a crossroads of civilizations, it continues to captivate travellers, scholars, and adventurers alike.

What can first-time Nepalese visitors expect from Egypt’s culture, hospitality, and atmosphere?

A first trip to Egypt is a deeply enriching experience, offering far more than ancient wonders. Nepalese travellers will find themselves welcomed by a culture known for its warmth and hospitality, where human connection is as memorable as the monuments. Egypt’s atmosphere blends the energy of bustling bazaars with the serenity of sacred sites and natural beauty.

Iconic landmarks such as the Pyramids of Giza and the enigmatic Sphinx are must-sees. The Grand Egyptian Museum, opening on July 3, 2025, will be the world’s largest archaeological museum, showcasing treasures like Tutankhamun’s collection and the statue of Ramses II. In Upper Egypt, Luxor and the Valley of the Kings offer a breathtaking journey through what is often called the world’s greatest open-air museum.

Beyond the ancient, Egypt surprises with its diversity. Alexandria charms with its Greco-Roman heritage, including the Bibliotheca Alexandrina and Qaitbay Citadel. New Alamein City offers a modern coastal experience blending culture and luxury. For those seeking reflection and adventure, Siwa Oasis near the Libyan border offers salt lakes, ancient temples, and tranquil desert landscapes rooted in Berber culture. The Red Sea Riviera — with Sharm El Sheikh and Hurghada — is a paradise for diving, beaches, and water sports.

No trip is complete without a Nile Cruise, a scenic journey through Egypt’s heart, and a visit to Cairo’s Khan El-Khalili Bazaar, a historic market full of color, crafts, and local flavor.

Have interest from Nepalese travelers to Egypt grown recently? What strategies are played to promote Egypt in Nepal?

I have been genuinely touched by the enthusiasm and curiosity expressed by so many Nepalese people about Egypt. It is both humbling and inspiring. The interest is real, but we still have much untapped potential. The Nepalese tourism market is significant for Egypt, as both countries share rich ancient heritages and spiritual depth. Our cultural affinities make us natural partners in promoting tourism.

In recent years, we have observed a rise in the number of Nepalese travellers visiting Egypt and a growing fascination with our history, spiritual sites, and natural wonders. To build on this momentum, we are emphasizing cultural diplomacy and people-to-people engagement. We are actively collaborating with Nepalese travel agencies, tourism boards, and media outlets to better communicate Egypt’s diverse offerings.

Looking ahead, we plan to develop tailored travel experiences specifically designed for Nepalese visitors, with a focus on Egypt’s spiritual sites, cultural vibrancy, and hospitality. Initiatives like influencer visits, cultural exchange programs, and joint travel forums are underway to deepen mutual understanding. We also envision joint campaigns such as “From the Himalayas to the Nile,” which can help spark imagination and foster a sense of shared exploration.

Equally important are practical measures: streamlining visa processes, creating group travel opportunities, and working with airlines and tourism boards to explore direct flights. These steps will help turn interest into action and facilitate a seamless travel experience.

With no ASA in place, what steps are being taken to enable direct flights between Nepal and Egypt?

Enhancing air connectivity between our two countries is indeed a top priority. The lack of a finalized Bilateral Air Services Agreement has been a barrier to launching direct flights, but progress is underway. A preliminary ASA was initialed back in August 1995 during a visit by Egypt’s Civil Aviation Authority to Nepal. Although not yet ratified, both sides have expressed renewed interest in revisiting and finalizing this agreement.

We are currently studying a proposal to launch a direct flight between Cairo and Kathmandu. If realized, this would be a game-changer, significantly boosting tourism, trade, and cultural exchange. The convenience of a direct connection would make it far easier for Nepalese travellers to explore Egypt and for Egyptians to discover the beauty of Nepal. Continued dialogue and cooperation between the respective aviation authorities are key, and I remain optimistic that we can overcome the existing logistical hurdles to make this a reality.

Could Egypt’s complex visa process discourage Nepalese tourists?

We understand that visa convenience is crucial in encouraging tourism, and I want to assure Nepalese travellers that Egypt remains accessible. In fact, we’ve taken several steps to ensure that the process is flexible and user-friendly. Nepali citizens can apply for a visa without needing a prior appointment — walk-in submissions are accepted on any working day at the Embassy. Furthermore, we do not retain original passports during processing. Passports are only submitted after approval and upon the applicant’s decision to proceed with visa issuance.

The visa fee is paid only at the final stage, allowing travellers to plan financially with confidence. Additionally, once approved, the visa clearance remains valid for up to six months, giving applicants ample time to schedule their travel.

There’s more good news: Nepalese travellers who hold valid visas or residence permits from countries like the US, UK, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, Japan, or any Schengen state are eligible for a Visa-on-Arrival in Egypt. This facility, though not widely known, is a significant advantage for internationally experienced travellers.

We are also working to further streamline the process, exploring digital visa solutions and simplified procedures for group travel. Making travel to Egypt easy, transparent, and accessible is central to our mission.

What key achievements have you made in boosting tourism and Nepal–Egypt relations during your tenure?

It has truly been an honor to serve in Nepal — a country whose people I deeply admire and whose cultural richness mirrors our own. One of our major achievements has been the continued effort to make the visa process simpler and more accessible for Nepalese travellers. From walk-in applications to offering visa-on-arrival options, we have aimed to remove barriers and build trust.

On the promotional front, we’ve actively engaged in tourism expos, worked with local tour operators, and participated in various media platforms to highlight Egypt’s offerings. Collaborations with Nepalese travel agencies and tourism influencers have helped us reach a wider audience.

We are also in discussions regarding a visa exemption agreement for holders of diplomatic, official, and service passports. This will not only ease high-level exchanges but also reinforce institutional cooperation. Furthermore, the proposed direct air route between Cairo and Kathmandu represents a major step forward in strengthening ties.

Diplomatically, we’ve worked to deepen mutual understanding and friendship through cultural programs and engagement with local communities. I truly believe that the foundation we’ve built will lead to a more dynamic and robust relationship in the years to come.

Finally, what message would you like to share with Nepalese travel and tour operators?

I extend a warm invitation to all Nepalese tour operators to explore the immense potential that Egypt holds for your clients. Egypt is not just a destination — it’s a living, breathing experience. From sacred temples and ancient mysteries to warm people and natural beauty, it offers something truly profound. Together, we can create unforgettable journeys, open new horizons, and deepen the connection between our two ancient civilizations. Let us work hand in hand to make Egypt a top destination on every Nepalese traveller’s bucket list.