Small camels stand guard over the empty streets and squares of the touristic areas of Egypt. While the stalls are filled with lines of copper goodies, small statues and piles of scarves that are collecting dust, the owners sit next to their wares hoping for better times.

The toy camels with their garish tack and long-lashed eyes used to be a favourite souvenir for many foreign visitor, but these days they serve as silent reminders of a troubled industry.