Egypt introduces digital Visa on Arrival
Since 1 August 2026, Egypt began piloting a new digital Visa on Arrival system at Cairo International Airport, replacing the paper visa sticker with an electronic QR code. Travellers or their travel company can obtain the QR code up to 48 hours before arrival through the dedicated online portal or mobile app, or use self-service kiosks at participating airport arrival halls. Our visa assistance service remains unchanged, and we can continue arranging visas for clients in advance, with the QR code replacing the paper sticker.
New VR & interactive 3D experiences at Karnak Temple, Luxor
A new immersive VR experience at Karnak Temple Complex Square takes visitors through Egypt’s ancient history using 3D headsets, visual effects and sound. Open daily from 9:00 AM to 10:00 PM, each experience lasts around 15 minutes, with capacity for up to 16 visitors at a time. Four shows are available: The Pyramid Builders, Sunken Antiquities, Secrets & History of Mummification and The Tomb of Tutankhamun. Interested in exploring similar experiences? Click here.
Ramesses IX tomb temporarily closed for restoration
The Tomb of King Ramesses IX (KV6) in Luxor’s Valley of the Kings is temporarily closed for routine maintenance and restoration. No official replacement has been announced, so the usual tomb rotation remains subject to change. Other commonly open tombs include Ramesses IV (KV2), Ramesses III (KV11), Merenptah (KV8), Ramesses I (KV16), Seti II (KV15) and Twosret & Setnakhte (KV14). Discover more Luxor experiences here.
Hot air balloon flights in Luxor resume from 1st September
Hot air balloon flights over Luxor are scheduled to resume from 1 September 2026 following a three-month summer suspension from June to August. The temporary pause was introduced due to high summer temperatures, aviation safety requirements and scheduled maintenance and preparation by operators. Flights will resume once operating conditions are suitable for the new season. See here if you are interested in exploring Luxor by air.
Growing demand for Nile Dahabiyas cruises
Demand for Nile Dahabiyas is increasing ahead of the winter season, with more luxury traditional sailing boats entering service between Luxor and Aswan to meet strong early bookings.
The trend reflects growing interest in slower, more private Nile journeys, with smaller boats able to access quieter islands, villages and archaeological sites that larger cruise ships cannot reach. Authorities are also working to improve docking facilities and safety standards to support the growing number of Dahabiyas. For a more intimate Nile experience, take a look at our selected Dahabiya journeys between Luxor and Aswan here.
