Impact of Terrorism on Tourism in Tunisia, Egypt, and Turkey

Jul 21, 2024

Impact of Terrorism on Tourism in Tunisia, Egypt, and Turkey

Regional Overview

  • Terrorist attacks in Tunisia, Egypt, and Turkey significantly impacted regional tourism.
  • Political upheavals, like the Arab Spring, already reduced tourism in the southern Mediterranean.
  • Notable incidents: Istanbul Airport (Turkey) & Russian flight over the Sinai (Egypt).

Tunisia

Sousse Beach Attack (June 25, 2015)

  • Scene: Journalists witnessed chaos, tourists shot, blood in the sea.
  • Impact: Hotels closed, trauma to residents and nationwide.
    • The Imperial Mahaba Hotel shut down; economic crisis due to tourism decline.
  • Economic Figures: 800,000 people work directly or indirectly in tourism.
    • Tourism collapse by 80% in some areas, e.g., Djerba.
  • Personal Stories: High personal and economic strain on families and individuals previously employed in the sector.

Security Measures

  • Enhanced security protocols in hotels, restaurants, airports, and sightseeing spots.
  • Economic and political stability measures taken.

Egypt

Tourism Decline Post-Revolution

  • Cairo and the Pyramids: Visibly fewer tourists; economic impact.
  • Impact of Arab Spring: Massive drop in tourism since the 2011 revolution.
  • Security Incidents: Russian flight disaster (October 2015); EgyptAir flight crash.

Human Rights and Government Crackdown

  • Political Climate: Military rule, censorship, oppressive state policies, human rights violations.
  • Economic Consequences: Severe job losses in tourism sector (600,000 unemployed hotel workers).

Personal Stories and Local Impact

  • Individuals like Saber (camel tour guide) struggling financially due to reduced tourism.
  • Luxor and Karnak: Significant downturn, impact on ancient ruins' maintenance.

Turkey

Terrorist Attacks and Political Instability

  • Notable Attacks: Blue Mosque (2016), Ataturk Airport (2016), multiple bombing incidents.
  • Economic Impact: Overall tourism revenue down by a third.
  • Attempted Coup (July 2016): Led to political crackdown post-coup attempt.

Social and Economic Hardship

  • Job Losses: High unemployment in tourism sector; significant reduction in workforce.
  • Political Repression: Increase in journalist imprisonments, suppression of dissent.
  • Tourism Shifts: Shift towards package deals affecting local businesses and economic inflow.

Conclusions and Future Outlook

  • Common Trends: High security measures, economic hardship, and political instability across all three countries.
  • Tourism Future: The fear of terrorism has added a new factor for potential tourists, overshadowing previous motivations like cost and location. Immediate revival of tourism is uncertain.

Final Thoughts

  • Greater social and economic reforms are necessary for tourism recovery.
  • Long-term stability and security will be critical for sustained growth in the tourism sector.