Egypt's Acting Environment Minister and Local Development Minister Manal Awad said on Tuesday that stricter controls will be imposed on tourism activities in Abu Galoum Nature Reserve and the Blue Hole area in Dahab, South Sinai, to safeguard coral reefs and biodiversity. During an inspection tour with South Sinai Governor Khaled Mubarak and environmental officials, Awad said the reserve is a national treasure and a right for future generations. She stressed the need for patrol boats and continuous presence of researchers to monitor reef health and raise visitor awareness.
The ministry's plans include a comprehensive waste management system for the reserve and Dahab city, regular clean-up campaigns with civil society participation, and reinforcing the ranger system to curb irresponsible practices.
Awad also called for developing eco-friendly services to offer a "world-class tourism experience" and encouraged sustainable environmental investments. She highlighted the Blue Hole's global reputation as a premier diving site, underscoring the urgency of preserving coral ecosystems.
She emphasized that engaging the local community is key to protecting natural resources and advancing sustainable tourism development in the region.
