Egypt's Minister of Tourism and Antiquities, Sherif Fathy, alongside South Sinai Governor Khaled Mubarak, inaugurated the annual Festival of Lights at Soho Square, Sharm El-Sheikh. Organized under the ministry's patronage, the event marks the festive season ahead of Christmas and the New Year. The minister expressed his appreciation for the participation of hundreds of tourists and visitors from around the world, who come to Sharm El-Sheikh each year to enjoy the vibrant atmosphere and festive celebrations throughout the city's squares and streets. Fathy also discussed ways to strengthen cooperation between the ministry and the governorate to boost inbound tourism and explore new opportunities for increasing tourism events across South Sinai's cities. Emphasizing the importance of such events, Fathy noted that they play a key role in showcasing Sharm El-Sheikh and South Sinai as premier tourism destinations. He also highlighted the region's diverse tourism potential, from its natural beauty to its rich cultural heritage. During the event, the Minister met with a group of tourism investors from South Sinai to discuss strategies for further developing the local tourism industry, improving the business climate, and fostering investment opportunities. One key topic was addressing the challenges faced by tourism investors and hotel owners in Taba city. The minister committed to prioritizing these issues, formulating solutions, and developing an action plan to resolve them systematically. Fathy also shared the Ministry's ongoing efforts with the House of Representatives, outlining a strategy focused on expanding international marketing campaigns, improving hotel quality, enhancing staff skills, and advancing archaeological projects. These initiatives are aimed at supporting the growth of tourism and maximizing its contribution to the Egyptian economy. The minister emphasized the ministry's commitment to promoting the diversity of Egypt's tourism offerings, enhancing its products, and ensuring sustainable tourism practices through digital transformation, environmental sustainability, and accessibility initiatives. This includes preserving Egypt's invaluable antiquities, combating illegal trade, and ensuring that the benefits of tourism are felt across all sectors.
