A brutal attack on tourists unfolded in Luxor, Egypt, when six Islamic militants launched a coordinated assault outside the Temple of Hatshepsut. Armed with automatic weapons, the attackers ambushed a group of tourists, claiming the lives of 62 individuals, many of whom were foreign nationals. The militants, affiliated with the extremist group Al-Gama'a al-Islamiyya, sought to undermine the Egyptian government by targeting its crucial tourism sector, which was a significant revenue source for the country. The incident attracted widespread media coverage, intensified security protocols in the region, and raised concerns about the safety of tourists worldwide.

Following the massacre, Egypt faced immense pressure to enhance security measures to protect its tourism infrastructure. The attack had far-reaching effects on the economy, as tourism dropped sharply in the years that followed. The government initiated a crackdown on Islamist militants, leading to arrests and intensified military operations aimed at curbing extremist activities in the region. Despite these measures, the long-term ramifications on tourism and perception of safety lingered for years.

The Luxor massacre opened discussions about the balance between ensuring security and maintaining an open environment for tourism. It underscored the complexities of navigating national security, cultural heritage preservation, and the global tourism economy. The attack is often cited in studies on the impact of terrorism on travel sectors and has influenced policy decisions regarding tourism safety in various countries.