During their visit, the Royals travel to Cairo and Luxor. Photo credit: Frederic Le Grand Comeo/Shutterstock
Philip VI and Queen Letizia of Spain began their first state visit to Egypt on Tuesday, September 19th. This will continue until Friday, September 19th. This marks the first Spanish visit to Egypt since 2008, when Juan Carlos I and Queen Sofia took a similar journey. The visit follows an invitation from Egyptian President Abdel Fatta al-Sisi, which was extended during a visit to Spain earlier this year, aims to strengthen political, economic and cultural ties between the two countries.
During your stay, the Royals will travel to Cairo and Luxor. In the capital, they will meet Egyptian officials, including President Al-Sisi, and are participating in the Spanish-Egypt business forum. The forum is expected to focus on key sectors such as infrastructure, renewable energy and water management, highlighting areas where Spanish investment and expertise can support Egypt’s development priorities. In Luxor, Philip VI and Queen Leticia visit a Spanish-led archaeological mission to enhance years of cultural collaboration between the two countries. Spain has a history of being involved in the preservation and research of ancient Egyptian sites, and this visit will showcase the ongoing projects and provide an opportunity to deepen heritage and archaeological collaboration. The visit also highlights Spain’s interest in promoting investment and tourism in Egypt. By combining political, economic and cultural agendas, Spanish authorities hope that the trip will have concrete consequences that benefit both countries. This includes strengthening bilateral trade, encouraging business opportunities and supporting Spanish companies operating in Egypt. This visit comes at a sensitive time in the area. Egypt plays a mediating role in conflicts in nearby regions, including visiting the ongoing situation in Gaza and Spain’s commitment to supporting dialogue and stability in the Middle East and North Africa. It also highlights Spain’s broader diplomatic strategy to maintain strong partnerships with major Arab countries.
While in Cairo, the Royals meet with members of Egypt’s Spanish expatriate community, counting around 1,000 citizens. Community engagement reflects the symbolic aspects of national visits and Spain’s commitment to citizens abroad. The itinerary includes formal meetings, site visits and discussions with business and cultural leaders, providing a comprehensive program designed to deepen bilateral relationships. The visit aims to consolidate Spain’s position as Egypt’s strategic partner and strengthen the common interests in areas such as sustainable development, infrastructure, cultural heritage and renewable energy.
Spain and Egypt have historically maintained close diplomatic relations. The current state visits are based on previous high-level exchanges, including a 2008 visit by Juan Carlos I and Queen Sofia. Over the years, the two countries have collaborated in areas ranging from trade and investment to cultural and educational exchanges. The 2025 visit seeks to stimulate these relationships, strengthen mutual understanding and promote long-term collaboration.
By combining political, economic and cultural engagement, the visit demonstrates its continued commitment to fostering Spanish international partnerships. It highlights the active role of monarchies in diplomacy, promotes Spanish interests overseas and supports cooperation on shared regional and global agendas.
The visit of Philip VI and Queen Letitz, the king of Egypt, is a milestone in Spanish diplomatic relations and strengthens the country’s strategic involvement in the Middle East and North Africa. It highlights Spain’s efforts to strengthen international cooperation while supporting economic growth, cultural exchanges and diplomatic dialogue in key regions of the world.
