Saint Catherine’s Monastery: The transformation project to revamp the area for millions of tourists – What Egyptian media reveal

Overview of Recent Developments

The recent court ruling regarding Saint Catherine’s Monastery is no accident. It is connected to certain groups in Egypt aiming to transform the site into a major tourist destination. Despite assurances from the government that the monastery’s religious significance will be preserved, concerns remain due to the ambiguous ownership of the site.

This court verdict is seen as part of the larger “Great Transformation” initiative—a comprehensive plan focusing on spiritual, cultural, and ecological tourism. Saint Catherine’s Monastery and Mount Sinai are key attractions that are expected to benefit from this development.

Investment and Strategic Objectives

The total investment for this project is estimated at around $320 million. Authorities have stated that the plan complies with UNESCO standards, as the area has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 2002. The Egyptian government aims to draw up to 30 million tourists by 2028, promising substantial economic advantages.

Project Features and Status

Initiated in July 2020, reports indicate that the project is approximately 90% complete. The development includes eco-tourism accommodations such as a sizable hotel with stunning views of Mount Sinai, eco-friendly lodgings, and traditional guesthouses designed to blend with local architecture.

A noteworthy component is the planned “Square of Peace,” which will feature a museum, a conference center, an open-air theater, and spaces dedicated to arts and culture.

In Zeituuna, plans include a new residential area with 21 hotel complexes and 546 new homes. There are also efforts to revitalize the old town by developing retail spaces and restoring historic buildings and traditional villages.

Specific Plans for the Monastery

Unique plans for the monastery include the construction of a new visitor center at the Sacred Valley’s square, designed as a reception and guidance station for tourists. This center will feature booking offices, cafes, and a planetarium showcasing 3D films about the region’s spiritual significance.

There are also plans for transportation improvements, including electric vehicles and pedestrian pathways to enhance access and minimize environmental impact.

Infrastructure and Environmental Considerations

In addition to hotel developments, significant infrastructure upgrades are in the works. The international airport is set to be expanded to accommodate commercial flights, enhancing accessibility for global visitors.

Environmental preservation is crucial to the project. Efforts will focus on protecting the natural landscape and cultural heritage, with plans to reuse underground water resources, implement flood protection measures, and incorporate traditional Bedouin architecture in new developments.

The “Great Transformation” project embodies Egypt’s strategic vision to establish Mount Sinai and Saint Catherine’s Monastery as a leading global tourist destination, merging cultural heritage with ecological and spiritual tourism. While the initiative promises economic growth and enhanced international profile, it also prioritizes the preservation of the site’s unique religious and cultural identity.