Egypt has officially designated the Great Coral Reef in the Red Sea as a marine protected area, in a move aimed at safeguarding biodiversity and promoting sustainable development, its acting environment minister announced Thursday. The announcement follows the issuance of Prime Minister's Decree No. 4419 of 2025, which defines the full extent of the reef area as a protected zone, based on official maps and coordinates. The decree completes the legal framework for Egypt's natural reserves, building on previous protections declared in 1986, 2003, and 2006. Manal Awad, who is also Minister of Local Development, described the move as a "historic step" to preserve the reef's unique ecosystem and enhance its role in the blue economy through sustainable tourism and environmental activities. Projects within the protected area will be allowed under strict environmental regulations to ensure resource conservation. The decree also tasks the governors of Red Sea and South Sinai with implementing measures to protect and manage the reserve. Awad said the designation strengthens Egypt's regional leadership in coral reef conservation and represents a step towards integrating environmental considerations into national development strategies, especially amid global climate challenges affecting marine ecosystems. Attribution: Amwal Al Ghad English
