Deadly Shark Attack in Egypt: One Tourist Killed, Another Injured
A shark attack in Marsa Alam, Egypt, resulted in the death of one foreign tourist and injured another on December 29, 2024. The Egyptian Ministry of Environment confirmed the incident, which occurred outside swimming zones. Authorities have closed the area for two days and formed an investigation committee. Safety measures are being implemented.
HASSAN BENYOUB 
A tragic incident occurred in Egypt's Red Sea resort of Marsa Alam, where a shark attack resulted in the death of one foreign tourist and left another injured. The Egyptian Ministry of Environment released a statement on Sunday, December 29, 2024, confirming the attack.
Details of the Incident
- The attack took place in deep waters beyond the designated swimming zones of Marsa Alam.
- Both victims were foreigners, though their nationalities were not disclosed by the Egyptian authorities.
- The injured tourist was transported to Porto Ghalib hospital for medical care.
Immediate Response
In response to this incident, Egyptian authorities have taken the following measures:
- Closure of the affected area for swimming for two days starting Monday, December 30.
- Formation of an urgent committee to investigate the incident.
- Coordination between the Environment Ministry, the Red Sea Governorate, and other relevant authorities to address the situation swiftly and effectively.
Context and Previous Incidents
Shark attacks in Egypt's Red Sea are relatively rare, but they have occurred in the past:
- In June 2023, a Russian tourist was killed by a shark near Hurghada.
- In 2022, two fatal attacks occurred within days of each other in Hurghada, claiming the lives of an Austrian and a Romanian tourist.
- A series of attacks in 2010 near Sharm El-Sheikh resulted in one death and four injuries.
Impact on Tourism
The Red Sea coast is a crucial tourist destination for Egypt, providing employment and foreign currency for the country of 107 million people. While such incidents can cause concern, experts suggest that the impact on tourism may be limited:
- As of now, there have been no significant cancellations reported by tour operators.
- Authorities are taking measures to ensure tourist safety, including deploying rescue teams and educating visitors about marine safety.
This incident serves as a reminder of the importance of adhering to safety guidelines and respecting designated swimming areas when visiting coastal resorts.
