Awad held a meeting with businessman and Chairman of the Sunrise Group Hossam El-Shaer to review the executive status of several proposed environmental investment projects in Sharm El-Sheikh's Peace Park and a number of nature reserves. The meeting was held as part of the state's efforts to promote sustainable investment and support eco-tourism and was attended by Environment Affairs Agency CEO Sherif Abdel Rahim, along with several ministerial aides, advisers and senior officials.
The minister reviewed a proposal to develop Peace Park in Sharm El-Sheikh, one of the city's promising projects. The proposal includes the redevelopment of the city's green zone, a legacy of the COP27 climate conference, through a redesign of the existing landscape to create a modern sanctuary where nature, creativity and cultural experiences intersect.
The project adopts a sustainable design approach that preserves environmental value while enhancing the visitor experience with minimal impact on the ecosystem. It also makes use of native plants and biodiversity, promotes efficient water use and relies on natural and sustainable materials to protect the area's landscape.
Awad also reviewed progress on a proposal to develop the visitor center at the Ras Mohammed Nature Reserve. She was briefed on the second phase of the project following the successful completion of the first phase. The new phase seeks to preserve the site's distinctive architectural identity and environmental character through the reorganization and redevelopment of the museum area and improvements to visitor services.
The project aims to transform the visitor center into an integrated destination combining environmental awareness, recreation and high-quality tourism services, offering visitors an exceptional experience befitting the international standing of Ras Mohammed Reserve.
The minister stressed that the development of the visitor center forms part of the state's strategy to promote sustainable eco-tourism and maximize the benefits of the reserve's unique natural resources while maintaining ecological balance. She noted that the project is expected to increase visitor numbers and reinforce the reserve's position as one of the country's leading environmental and tourism destinations.
Awad also emphasized the importance of developing the beaches of Nabq Nature Reserve as a luxury natural beach destination offering an open experience that is fully integrated with the surrounding environment. A proposal was reviewed to develop one of the reserve's beaches to attract visitors seeking relaxation, nature, tranquil experiences, eco-friendly surroundings and distinctive beach events, thereby enhancing the overall visitor experience and supporting eco-tourism.
Manal Awad further reviewed a project to develop Ghazlani Beach in Ras Mohammed Reserve, which aims to provide a comprehensive range of eco-tourism services centered on promoting the area's unique natural resources. The project relies on environmentally compatible natural materials and sustainable resource management, with the goal of turning the beach into a fully integrated eco-tourism destination for reserve visitors and enthusiasts of nature tourism and luxury camping.
Awad underscored the need to fully observe environmental considerations when implementing development projects in nature reserves and beach areas. These include preserving the site's natural geography, minimizing heavy construction activities, using dismantlable and reusable natural materials, maintaining the area's visual and natural character and providing organized visitor pathways to protect natural resources.
The minister directed the swift completion of all procedures required to launch the environmental development projects in Ras Mohammed and Nabq reserves, along with the submission of all technical, financial and environmental studies. Awad also called for their prompt review by the ministry's Environmental Investment Committee.