Egypt is poised for a significant tourism boom. The Ministry of Housing, Utilities, and Urban Communities has unveiled an ambitious plan to dramatically elevate the North Coast into a globally recognized tourism hotspot. This initiative, spearheaded by Minister Sherif El-Sherbiny, aims to transform the region’s landscape by mandating that at least 50% of all new tourism development units be dedicated to hotel accommodations.
Minister El-Sherbiny, during a recent site inspection tour of ongoing projects, emphasized the critical need for accelerated construction timelines. He stressed the importance of meeting strategic objectives and ensuring that projects in key locations, such as the rapidly developing Sidi Heneish area, are completed swiftly and efficiently. This urgency reflects the government’s commitment to bolstering Egypt’s tourism infrastructure and ensuring its competitiveness on the world stage.
The Ministry’s initiative isn’t simply about increasing the number of hotel rooms; it’s about creating a world-class experience. The plan aligns seamlessly with Egypt’s broader vision for sustainable tourism development. This includes not just building hotels, but also meticulously planning and constructing vibrant tourism villages that blend luxury accommodations with recreational facilities and authentic cultural experiences. These villages are designed to cater to a diverse range of tourists, from families seeking relaxed beach getaways to business travelers looking for high-end conference facilities.
Progress is already underway. Hossam El-Din Abdo, Head of the Third Sector Authority for the North West Coast, reports that 454 building permits have already been issued for projects currently under construction, with many more applications under review. The Ministry’s rigorous site inspections serve to ensure compliance with regulations and address any potential construction delays. This proactive approach ensures that the North Coast development maintains the highest standards of quality and sustainability.
The scale of the undertaking is impressive. The Ministry of Housing oversees tourism development across approximately 707,000 feddans (around 290,000 hectares) of land managed by the New Urban Communities Authority, spanning from kilometer 34 to Salloum city in the Matrouh Governorate. This vast area is being carefully developed to seamlessly integrate residential, hospitality, and leisure components, creating a holistic and attractive environment for visitors.
A recent inspection of one mid-stage project showcased the government’s commitment to this ambitious plan. The project, which includes 243 buildings comprising villas, chalets, and residential units (a total of 917 units), exemplifies the type of high-quality tourism infrastructure Egypt is aiming to deliver on time and within budget.
The impact of this initiative on Egypt’s tourism sector is expected to be far-reaching. By significantly expanding hotel capacity and modernizing its infrastructure, Egypt is actively positioning itself as a premier destination for both leisure and business travelers. For international tourists, the North Coast development presents an exciting new opportunity to experience Egypt’s rich culture and breathtaking natural beauty, combined with the convenience and luxury of world-class accommodations. This ambitious project underscores Egypt’s commitment to becoming a leading player in the global tourism market, enhancing its economy and international reputation.
