Asmaa Samir Qandil
Sharm el-Sheikh, the crown jewel of South Sinai, has been recognised as the world’s safest tourist destination by the Afro-Asian Union for Tourism, Development and Technology.
This prestigious accolade signifies the remarkable achievements made under the leadership of South Sinai Governor Khaled Fouda.
The Gold Award, presented to Fouda, underscores the tireless efforts and unwavering commitment invested in implementing South Sinai’s development plan.
This comprehensive strategy, which has received exceptional support from the nation’s political leadership, has transformed the region into a global benchmark for excellence.
“This award is a source of immense pride for myself and the entire team working across various governorate departments,” Fouda said.
“It represents international recognition from a highly respected organisation with specialised monitoring committees that uphold rigorous evaluation standards.”
The Afro-Asian Union, with its roots in the Afro-Asian Peoples’ Solidarity Organisation (formerly the Non-Aligned Movement), boasts strong affiliations with the United Nations, the World Trade Organisation, and various regional bodies like the Arab League and the African Union.
The Gold Award serves as a powerful motivator, promoting excellence, performance improvement, and a spirit of dedication amongst hardworking individuals.
Fouda elaborated on the Union’s stringent selection criteria.
“The award has been bestowed upon numerous individuals and cities that have demonstrably met the high standards set by the Union’s specialised committee system,” he said.
“In Egypt, it has previously been awarded to distinguished business leaders, both public and private, including those recognised for their exceptional social contributions, this year, I am honoured to receive the award in recognition of the transformative development work undertaken in South Sinai Governorate, with Sharm el-Sheikh being singled out as the world’s best safe tourist destination.”
Fouda highlighted a series of impactful achievements, including the establishment of a state-of-the-art camel racing track exceeding cost of LE150 million.
This world-class facility boasts a Bedouin heritage village, dedicated camel shelters, a veterinary unit and a mosque.
A brand-new road network, built to the highest international standards now seamlessly connects South Sinai’s cities to other regions across the country.
Sharm el-Sheikh has embraced innovative tourism practices with a focus on converting petrol stations to natural gas operations and expanding the use of clean, renewable energy sources.
A six-kilometre tourist walkway adds to the city’s charm, complemented by beautification projects that enhance green spaces and public areas.
Technological advancements have also been implemented, with the introduction of smart taxi services, electronic payment systems and digital solutions.
Looking towards the future, Fouda expressed unwavering optimism.
“We have laid a solid foundation, establishing robust systems that will empower future leaders to build upon our success,” he said.
“The unwavering support of President Abdel Fattah El Sisi, who has consistently overcome all obstacles, has been instrumental in achieving these remarkable milestones. We are confident that the best is yet to come for South Sinai.”
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