Big green news from the Red Sea! Sharm El Sheikh has officially become Egypt’s first city — and only the fourth in the Arab world — to join the ICLEI Global Network of Sustainable Cities, marking a major milestone in the country’s sustainable urban development.
The announcement was made by Minister of Environment Yasmine Fouad and South Sinai Governor Khaled Foudaon June 1, 2025, and coincided with the launch of the city’s new sustainability platform: www.greensharm.org. The website will serve as an interactive hub for sharing Sharm El Sheikh’s green achievements, community programs, and sustainable tourism offerings — providing locals and visitors alike with real-time updates on eco-friendly experiences and accommodations.
The transformation of Green Sharm is the result of four years of collaboration between the Ministry of Environment, South Sinai Governorate, UNDP, and the Global Environment Facility (GEF). Together, these partners have positioned the city as a regional model for sustainable tourism.
According to Governor Fouda, Sharm El Sheikh is now recognized as Egypt’s first green touristic city, with key pillars of its transformation including:
– Renewable energy (EGP 800 million invested to produce 51 MW of clean power)
– Sustainable transportation
– Water conservation
– Waste management
– Biodiversity protection
The city has already implemented practical measures, such as banning single-use plastic bags in 50 hotels. Additionally, 39 new projects have been completed to boost Sharm’s capacity to host international conferences — further enhancing its reputation as a leading destination for global dialogue on sustainability.
With these advancements, Sharm El Sheikh continues to shine as a model for Egypt’s green future — and a must-visit spot for eco-conscious travelers exploring the Red Sea.
