Preserving Egypt’s heritage through experiential tourism
Egypt’s rich heritage continues to inspire new generations who are transforming the country’s tourism landscape through creativity and innovation. Among them is Rahma Ahmed, a tour guide who joined the Maharat for Tourism programme to develop her skills and build a sustainable career in the tourism sector.
Learning from the past to shape the future
Our Egyptian ancestors left us a great heritage, and I am one of the people who continue to benefit from it to this day.
For Rahma, Egypt’s antiquities are not only cultural treasures but also a source of livelihood that continues to support families and communities through tourism.
She is particularly inspired by experiential tourism, an approach that allows visitors to immerse themselves in local life. “It’s about more than just visiting historical sites,” she explains. “It’s living with a family for two or three days, sharing their food, drinks, and daily life. Visitors live the experience, not just observe it.”
Empowered through Maharat for Tourism
Through Maharat for Tourism, implemented by SPARK with the support of Google.org, Rahma gained access to a series of interactive online courses designed to equip young people with the knowledge and skills to thrive in the tourism industry.
“The Maharat for Tourism programme was one of the most rewarding educational experiences for me,” she says. “The design of the courses was very simple and user-friendly. The modules, assignments, and the platform were easy to follow, accessible, and flexible.”
The combination of theoretical knowledge and practical learning allowed Rahma to develop a deeper understanding of tourism and its potential in Egypt’s economy.
Personal and professional growth
For Rahma, the impact of the programme went beyond education. “On a personal level, I gained many new skills in tourism and gained valuable knowledge,” she explains. “On a professional level, it helped me understand how to increase my income through work in the tourism sector.”
Today, Rahma feels more confident and empowered to contribute to Egypt’s growing tourism industry, while continuing to promote its cultural and historical treasures to the world.
Our heritage is our strength. Through initiatives like Maharat for Tourism, we can honour it, share it, and build a better future for ourselves and our communities.