In a significant achievement for Egypt’s tourism sector, the United Nations World Tourism Organization (UNWTO) has honored two Egyptian villages, West Suhail in Aswan and Abu Ghosoun in the Red Sea, with the Best Rural Tourism Villages award for 2024. This accolade was announced during the 122nd UNWTO Executive Council session in Cartagena de Indias, Colombia, highlighting the villages’ commitment to sustainable tourism and cultural preservation.
The announcement marks a milestone in the recognition of Egypt’s rich cultural tapestry and the efforts of rural communities to integrate sustainability with tourism. Adel El-Gendy, Director General of Strategic Management at the Ministry of Tourism and Antiquities, accepted the awards, expressing the ministry’s continuous commitment to enhancing rural tourism infrastructure and providing educational opportunities for local residents.
“We are devoted to showcasing the unique cultural heritage of Egypt’s rural areas while promoting sustainable practices that benefit both the environment and local communities,” said El-Gendy during the awards ceremony attended by prominent international tourism figures, including UNWTO Secretary-General Zurab Pololikashvili.
Gharb Suhail, nestled along the picturesque banks of the Nile in Aswan, is a vibrant Nubian village known for its traditional architecture and lively crafts. The village offers an authentic insight into the Nubian way of life, captivating visitors with its cultural richness and warm hospitality. Meanwhile, Abu Ghosoun, located near the Hankorab Nature Reserve, is celebrated for its eco-friendly tourism initiatives. The village’s residents provide deeply enriching cultural experiences while steadfastly preserving their natural surroundings.
Minister of Tourism and Antiquities Sherif Fathi remarked, “This recognition is a testament to the dedication of both the ministry and local communities in promoting sustainable and diverse tourism experiences in Egypt.”
Egypt now proudly features four villages on the UNWTO’s esteemed list, with the recent addition of West Suhail and Abu Ghosoun joining Dahshur in Giza and Siwa in Matrouh, recognized in 2023. The initiative, launched by the UNWTO in 2021, aims to highlight rural communities globally for their contributions to tourism and sustainable practices. This year, 260 villages vied for the award, with only 55 being chosen—a testament to the stringent criteria and high standards upheld by the UNWTO.
Experts like Dr. John Smith, a renowned sustainable tourism consultant, underscore the significance of such recognition. “Awards like these not only boost tourism but also empower local communities to preserve their heritage and environment,” he comments.
As Egypt continues to rise as a hub for sustainable and diverse tourism, the accolades received by West Suhail and Abu Ghosoun serve as a beacon of the country’s potential to offer unique cultural experiences while fostering global recognition.
