As part of a continuing series of high-level meetings with investors to promote sustainable ecotourism, Egypt’s Minister of Local Development and Acting Minister of Environment, Dr. Manal Awad, met with a group of private-sector investors to explore expanding sustainable environmental investments in Egypt’s natural reserves.
The meeting, held in the presence of the CEO of the Egyptian Environmental Affairs Agency and senior advisors and officials from the Ministry of Environment’s Nature Conservation Sector, focused on accelerating green investment pathways, supporting eco-friendly tourism, and reinforcing Egypt’s broader strategy for comprehensive and sustainable development.
Sustainable investment at the heart of Egypt’s green transition
Dr. Awad emphasized that sustainable investment in protected natural areas has become a core pillar of the Egyptian government’s current agenda, highlighting its role in advancing the country’s transition toward a green economy, maximizing the responsible use of natural resources, and creating promising investment opportunities that align economic growth with environmental protection.
“Our goal is to attract sustainable investments that strike a balance between economic returns and the preservation of natural resources, in close partnership with the private sector,” Dr. Awad said.
She noted that the Ministry of Environment is adopting a balanced development model that integrates economic growth with environmental conservation, particularly by encouraging eco-tourism projects that comply with environmental standards, apply sustainability principles, and utilize nature-based and eco-friendly designs. These measures, she added, enhance Egypt’s competitiveness in the rapidly growing field of green and sustainable investment.
Integrated management model for natural reserves
The minister underscored the importance of establishing an integrated management framework for natural reserves, stressing that proposed projects must reflect Egypt’s environmental identity and cultural heritage, improve service quality, and increase the added value of economic activities—without causing any negative impact on natural ecosystems.
“Egypt possesses exceptional natural assets that position it as a highly attractive destination for sustainable investment at both the regional and international levels,” Dr. Awad said.
Strict environmental review before approvals
During the meeting, Dr. Awad explained that all proposed projects undergo rigorous technical and environmental assessments, including environmental impact evaluations, sustainable management plans, and risk mitigation mechanisms. These studies are reviewed by specialized technical committees within the ministry to ensure full compliance with approved environmental regulations before any permits or approvals are granted.
She also highlighted ongoing efforts to modernize environmental policies, strengthen institutional frameworks supporting sustainable investment, and improve the overall business climate for environmental projects. These efforts are being implemented in cooperation with the private sector and are aimed at positioning Egypt as a regional leader in sustainable development and green investment.
Private sector partnership welcomed—with clear conditions
The minister reaffirmed the state’s openness to partnering with the private sector in implementing sustainable investment projects within natural reserves, provided that all environmental safeguards are strictly observed. Such partnerships, she said, are essential to protecting natural resources, achieving long-term development goals, and safeguarding the rights of future generations.
For their part, participating investors presented conceptual plans and detailed technical and environmental studies for proposed projects in several natural reserves. They confirmed their full commitment to complying with all environmental regulations and praised the Ministry of Environment’s pivotal role in promoting ecotourism through structured private-sector engagement.
Growing Focus on sustainable tourism in Egypt
The meeting reflects Egypt’s broader push to position sustainable tourism and eco-investment as key drivers of economic growth, while ensuring the long-term conservation of its unique biodiversity and protected landscapes. As global demand for environmentally responsible travel continues to rise, Egyptian officials see natural reserves as a strategic opportunity to align investment, conservation, and inclusive development.
