The world-famous Eiffel Tower in Paris has been closed following a staff protest over the removal of female employees from their workplaces during a visit by a Hindu religious delegation.
According to reports, a delegation of around 100 people affiliated with the Hindu religious organisation BAPS visited the Eiffel Tower on Saturday.
During the visit, female employees were reportedly asked to leave their positions and male staff members were assigned to those areas instead.
Diane Divine, a representative of the employees’ union, said the female workers felt deeply humiliated by the incident. She added that the management later apologised to the staff.
She said that following the incident, employees staged a protest and demanded discussions with management to ensure that female workers would not be treated in a similar manner in the future.
SETE, the company that operates the Eiffel Tower, confirmed that the religious delegation had requested that interactions with women be limited during their visit.
The protest disrupted the Eiffel Tower’s normal operations, leading to its closure to visitors.
Best tourist destinations for 2026
The best tourist destinations range from historic capitals to remote mountain valleys, travellers are casting a wider net as global tourism continues to rebound, drawn by destinations that offer culture, cuisine and natural beauty across continents.
Adventure seekers are increasingly drawn to unexplored corners of the world, seeking unique experiences and memories. Untouched landscapes offer travellers the thrill of discovery, as off-the-beaten-path destinations gain popularity in global tourism.
Europe blends history with modern life
Paris, France: Eiffel Tower, Louvre Museum, Montmartre; world-famous art, fashion, cafés; romantic and walkable neighbourhoods.
Rome, Italy: Colosseum, Roman Forum, Vatican City; renowned Italian cuisine; streets filled with centuries of history.
London, United Kingdom: Buckingham Palace, Tower of London, British Museum; West End theatres; diverse culture.
Istanbul, Türkiye: Hagia Sophia, Blue Mosque, Grand Bazaar, Bosphorus waterfront; a mix of Europe and Asia; rich food and heritage.