A total of 487 hotels and resorts in 19 governorates have received health and safety certificates in the period between 15 May and 4 July, according to the Ministry of Tourism and Antiquities. The certificates allow them to resume business again as Egypt adopts coexistence plan with the novel coronavirus (COVID-19).
Tourism businesses and hotels in Egypt receive the certificates after fulfilling regulations outlined by the Ministry of Tourism and Antiquities in this regard. This is in accordance with standards put in place by Egypt’s Ministry of Health and the World Health Organization (WHO).
In a press statement, the ministry added that these hotels and resorts are located in 19 Governorates across Egypt. They are located in South Sinai, North Sinai, Red Sea, Matrouh, Alexandria, Suez, Greater Cairo, Qena, Luxor, Aswan, Damietta, Fayoum, Beheira, Port Said, Daqahleya, Ismailia, Minya, Assiut and Sohag.
It explained that these hotels received the certificate following inspections carried out by a specialised committee from the Ministries of Tourism and Antiquities, and Health, the Egyptian Hotels Association (EHA). Representatives from the concerned governorates were also involved in the inspections. The hotels and tourism facilities are now able to receive guests.
The Ministry of Tourism and Antiquities statement noted that more hotels across Egypt will be inspected so that they can reopen their doors.
The ministry has called on citizens and tourism companies to restrict dealing to hotels that have obtained a health safety certificate, to protect general health and safety.
Meanwhile, it added that a range of tourism businesses in the Red Sea and South Sinai governorates have been granted health and safety certificate to reopen. The businesses include 12 diving centres, 7 yachts, and 2 marine activity centres.
This brings the total number that have received the health and safety certificate to 30 diving centres, 13 yachts, and 4 marine activity facilities.
The certificates were awarded following the verification that the businesses have met all the health and safety requirements set out by the Egyptian government and WHO.