Christians Under Attack

But some in Egypt worry about a more direct threat to their social structure and traditions – older, foreign, wealthy, female tourists who are dazzling their young men and stealing their hearts.

In other words, real-life "Desperate Housewives" are invading the nation of the pyramids and turning the country upside down.

Authorities in the city of Luxor, where some 40 percent of young men are married to Western women, recently launched a new campaign designed to provide incentives to stick with local women.

Dr. Samir Faraj, who heads the Luxor municipality, explained to Al Sharq Al Awsat the main reason behind the marriages of young Egyptian men and the aging westerners – including many in their 40s and 50s – is for financial security.

Faraj says better jobs need to be found for the young men, who will then be free to marry the women of their choice and raise families.

Luxor is one of several Upper Egyptian cities struggling with poverty. But it also attracts tourists from across the world to its ancient ruins. Egypt last year drew an estimated 9 million tourists.