Minister of Local Development Reviews Environmental Investment Projects in Sharm El Sheikh

Dr. Manal Awad, Egypt’s Minister of Local Development and Environment, convened a meeting with businessman Hossam El Shaar, Chairman of the Sunrise Group, to discuss the progress of several proposed environmental investment projects in Peace Park, Sharm El Sheikh, and various nature reserves. This initiative is part of the government’s efforts to enhance sustainable investment and support eco-tourism. The meeting was attended by Sherif Abdel Rahim, CEO of the Egyptian Environmental Affairs Agency, along with several advisors and ministry officials.

During the meeting, Dr. Awad emphasized the ministry’s commitment to continuing collaboration with various partners and stakeholders to ensure the successful implementation of environmental investment projects. She noted that these efforts aim to position Sharm El Sheikh and Egypt’s natural reserves as premier destinations for eco-tourism both regionally and internationally.

The Minister was briefed on a proposal for the development of Peace Park, which is seen as a promising project. This initiative aims to enhance the green area established during the COP27 climate conference in Sharm El Sheikh by creating a contemporary space where nature meets creativity and cultural experiences. The sustainable design approach will preserve environmental value while enriching visitor experiences with minimal impact on the ecosystem, utilizing local flora and biodiversity while ensuring efficient use of water and sustainable natural resources to protect the landscape.

Dr. Awad also listened to details regarding the development proposal for the visitor center at Ras Mohammed Nature Reserve. She learned about the second phase of this project following the success of its initial stage, which aims to maintain the area’s architectural identity and unique environmental character. The proposal includes reorganizing museum areas within the center and enhancing visitor experiences through more integrated and organized tourism services. The project aims to transform the visitor center into a comprehensive destination that combines environmental awareness with recreation and upscale tourism services, providing an exceptional experience for visitors that reflects Ras Mohammed’s global standing.

Dr. Awad stated that developing the visitor center at Ras Mohammed is part of the state’s strategy toward promoting sustainable eco-tourism while maximizing benefits from the reserve’s unique natural resources, all while fully maintaining ecological balance. This approach ensures project sustainability for future generations, which is expected to increase visitor numbers and enhance Ras Mohammed’s reputation as one of Egypt’s top eco-tourism destinations.

The Minister stressed the need to develop beaches within Nabq Protected Area as an upscale natural beach destination that harmonizes with its surroundings. A proposal was reviewed for enhancing beach facilities within the reserve to create an inviting environment for visitors seeking relaxation amidst nature, calm experiences, ecological atmospheres, and distinctive beach events—ultimately enhancing visitors’ experiences while promoting eco-tourism.

Additionally, she reviewed a project aimed at developing Ghazlani Beach in Ras Mohammed Reserve to provide a complete set of eco-tourism services focused on marketing unique natural resources while relying on designs that use natural materials harmonizing with their environment. This initiative seeks to transform Ghazlani Beach into an integrated eco-tourism destination catering to visitors who appreciate eco-friendly tourism and glamping.

Dr. Awad emphasized that environmental considerations must be prioritized in developing reserves and beaches for eco-tourism services. This includes preserving geographical features of sites, minimizing heavy construction interventions, using removable natural materials, maintaining visual aesthetics of locations, and ensuring organized pathways for visitors within reserves to protect their natural resources.

She urged swift action on all procedures necessary for implementing environmental development projects in both Ras Mohammed and Nabq reserves while providing all necessary technical, financial, and environmental studies for prompt review by the ministry’s Environmental Investment Committee.