But what does this mean for travelers, tour operators, and the future of the Red Sea coast? Let’s dive into the details of this new airport and why the area around Marsa Alam is a destination you need to know about.
Why Marsa Alam is Already a Tourist Hotspot
To understand the importance of the new Berenice Airport, you first need to understand the allure of Marsa Alam. Located on the western shore of the Red Sea, this region has grown from a quiet fishing port into one of Egypt’s most coveted destinations. Tourists flock here for a specific reason: unparalleled natural beauty.
Here is what people are searching for when they look up Marsa Alam:
- Pristine Beaches and Untouched Reefs: Unlike some of the more developed resorts, Marsa Alam offers a sense of wild, untouched beauty. The beaches are stunning, and the coral reefs are among the healthiest in the world.
- World-Class Diving & Snorkeling: This is the #1 reason people visit. Marsa Alam is famous for its unique marine life.
- Dugongs (“Lady of the Sea”): The chance to see a Dugong in its natural habitat is a massive draw, particularly in areas like Marsa Mubarak.
- Dolphin House (Sha’ab Samadai): A horseshoe-shaped reef where a pod of spinner dolphins regularly rests. Snorkeling and diving here is a magical experience.
- Unique Experiences on Land:
- Wadi El Gemal National Park: A protected area combining desert and sea. Visitors can take jeep safaris, see ancient emerald mines, and meet the local Ababda Bedouin tribe.
- Beach with “Natural Pools”: Near Qulaan, the reef creates natural, crystal-clear pools along the shore, perfect for safe and easy snorkeling.
Currently, most tourists fly into Marsa Alam International Airport (RMF), which is located about 60 km north of the city. However, the development of the new airport to the south is set to change the game.
The New Berenice International Airport: What We Know
According to a recent report by Elaria Travel, the new airport is ready for business. Here are the key details gathered from industry experts:- Strategic Location: The airport is situated south of Marsa Alam, bringing it closer to the southern tourist resorts that were previously harder to reach.
- Cost and Standards: Constructed at a cost of around half a billion Egyptian pounds, tourism expert Maged al-Qady has confirmed that it was built to international standards. It wasn’t just a luxury project, but a “necessity” to unlock the potential of the southern area.
- Accessibility: Abd al-Naby Abu al-Hassan, director of a local tourism company, clarified that while the airport is new, the drive from the airport to the popular resort areas is approximately 100 kilometers. This is a manageable distance for a transfer and opens up a new coastline for development.
- Affordable Access: A key point for airlines and tour operators is that the airport will handle charter flights at the same prices as other Egyptian airports, making it a financially viable option for holiday packages.
A Boost for Investment and Egypt’s Vision 2030
The new Berenice Airport is more than just a travel hub; it’s an economic catalyst. Maged al-Qady pointed out that several investment projects in the far south were previously canceled or delayed precisely because there was no nearby airport. This new infrastructure removes that barrier. This project is a core part of the state’s development strategy and aligns with Egypt’s Vision 2030, aiming to diversify the economy and promote sustainable development. By expanding southward, Egypt is not only easing pressure on northern infrastructure but also opening up vast, pristine areas for eco-friendly tourism.What This Means for the Future of Travel
The opening of Berenice International Airport, combined with the recent return of direct UK flights to Sharm el-Sheikh and the high rankings of Hurghada and Sharm el-Sheikh airports (with Sharm named the fastest-growing airport in Africa in 2019 by Routes Online), paints a very positive picture for Egyptian tourism.
For travelers, this means:
- More direct access to the southern Red Sea’s hidden gems.
- New resorts and hotels are likely to be built in the coming years.
- Potentially less crowded diving sites as tourism expands over a wider area.
Conclusion
The inauguration of Berenice International Airport is a bold step forward. It confirms that the Red Sea region, particularly the area around Marsa Alam, is open for business and ready to welcome the world. Whether you are a diver dreaming of swimming with dolphins, a sun-seeker looking for pristine beaches, or an adventurer eager to explore the desert meeting the sea, the new airport makes the dream more accessible than ever.
Stay tuned to Elaria Travel for the latest updates on flights and travel deals to this exciting new gateway.