Awad, who is also acting Minister of Environment, met with Governor Major General Khaled Mubarak and officials from the UN Human Settlements Programme (UN-Habitat) to review progress on the ambitious project.
The development plan aims to turn Dahab into a model of
sustainable tourism by focusing on several key areas. Projects include
upgrading three world-renowned diving sites—the Blue Hole, the Three Pools, and
the Canyon—as well as developing the Al-Asala district and the Lagoon area into
a global recreational hub.
The minister emphasized that these interventions aim to
create an integrated model for sustainable tourism and environmental
development that can be replicated in other cities in South Sinai and other
coastal governorates.
She pointed out that the technical support for preparing
detailed feasibility studies for the projects represents a practical
application of developed local administration mechanisms and contributes to
adopting innovative solutions for integrated urban development at the city
level. She added that the project includes launching a South Sinai investment
platform, through which integrated and actionable investment opportunities will
be offered.
Major General Khaled Mubarak highlighted that Dahab's recent
"Arab Cities Without Slums" award has boosted international
confidence, leading the Islamic Development Bank to support the city's
development plan. He said the ongoing projects would enhance Dahab's position
as a global tourist destination while preserving its natural resources.
Hisham El-Helbawy, Assistant to the Minister for National
Projects, noted that infrastructure improvements are a top priority, including
paving and upgrading internal roads, developing the city's main entrance, and
rehabilitating the Blue Hole road, a key route to the main diving sites.
He added that these projects would not only improve services
but also attract new investments, increase tourism, and create jobs for local
residents.
UN-Habitat Country Director Ahmed Rizk said the program is focusing on Dahab due to its unique nature and global appeal, and is working with the ministry to transform strategic plans into viable investment opportunities.