Egypt is studying a comprehensive plan to develop the Blue Hole diving site in South Sinai while protecting its marine ecosystem. Minister of Local Development and Environment Manal Awad reviewed the proposal during a meeting with environmental experts. The site attracts more than 110,000 visitors annually.
The Blue Hole lies within the Abu Galum Protected Area. Officials noted that the area contains more than 300 coral species and supports local employment. Discussions addressed environmental challenges and a long-term strategy focused on four pillars: reorganising the site and protecting sensitive zones, upgrading facilities, regulating marine activities, and strengthening management systems. The plan also calls for developing alternative attractions to reduce pressure on the Blue Hole and the nearby Canyon site. Additional measures include limiting visitor numbers to match environmental capacity, expanding awareness programmes, improving waste management, and introducing electronic monitoring. Manal Awad stressed the need to involve local communities and create green jobs. She directed authorities to prepare an implementation timeline and complete required environmental and technical studies.