Monday, August 19, 2024 Egypt’s North Coast, with the development of New Alamein City, is emerging as a significant player in the global sustainable tourism landscape. This potential transformation was highlighted by Mohamed Kaoud, the former head of the Tourism and Aviation Committee at the Egyptian Junior Business Association. Kaoud pointed out that New Alamein City, strategically located in one of Egypt’s premier coastal regions, has been garnering substantial investment and interest from both domestic and international stakeholders.
This burgeoning interest is attributed to the city’s accessibility through three major airports: Alamein, Borg El Arab, and Marsa Matrouh. According to Kaoud, the state has been implementing a clear and strategic approach to the development of New Alamein City. This strategy includes the construction of robust infrastructure, which serves as the foundation for the city’s future growth.
The emphasis on sustainability and resilience is central to this approach, as the state aims to position New Alamein City as a leader in sustainable tourism. The city’s development strategy also involves attracting foreign direct investment, strengthening governance, and executing strategic marketing campaigns. Kaoud also highlighted the state’s efforts to engage the private sector in the development of the North Coast, with a particular focus on diversifying tourism activities beyond the traditional beach and entertainment offerings.
Currently, these activities account for 85% of the region’s tourism patterns. By broadening the range of tourism experiences available, the state aims to create a more dynamic and attractive destination for a wider array of visitors. The creation of Ras El Hekma City, catalyzed by the establishment of New Alamein, has sparked a surge in capital and investment from regional countries.
This influx of investment is expected to generate new opportunities along the North Coast, further enhancing its appeal as a top tourist destination. Kaoud noted that the North Coast has already seen a significant increase in tourism, with 10 million trips made to the region this year, far exceeding the initial target of 2 million visitors. A key driver of this influx has been the El Alamein Festival, which has attracted tourists through a combination of entertainment events and important conferences, such as the 2024 Air Show, set to commence in early September.
Regarding accommodations, Kaoud confirmed that July and August typically see a substantial influx of both domestic and international tourists, with demand continuing to rise in September and October. Despite this, the current number of hotel rooms on the coast remains relatively low, not exceeding 6,000. However, the private sector is expected to play a crucial role in doubling this capacity, with an additional 3,000 rooms anticipated to be added over the next two to three years.
Kaoud praised the state’s approach to maximizing the potential of yacht tourism along the North Coast, particularly through partnerships with the private sector. He pointed out that 4 to 5 yacht marinas are currently under construction, with the goal of attracting large yachts to the region. This focus on yacht tourism is expected to further bolster the North Coast’s appeal, attracting a more affluent segment of tourists and contributing to the region’s economic growth.
The development of New Alamein City and the broader North Coast region is poised to have significant global effects on travelers. As Egypt continues to position itself as a leader in sustainable tourism, the North Coast is likely to attract a growing number of international visitors, drawn by the region’s enhanced infrastructure, diverse tourism offerings, and strategic location. The expansion of hotel capacity and the development of yacht tourism will provide travelers with more options and experiences, making the North Coast an increasingly attractive destination for both leisure and business travel.
As the region continues to develop, the North Coast is expected to become a key player in the global travel industry, offering a unique blend of sustainability, luxury, and cultural richness. This transformation will not only benefit the local economy but also provide travelers with a new, exciting destination that aligns with the growing global emphasis on sustainable and responsible tourism..
