Latest news with #TourismandAntiquities
See - Sada Elbalad
2 days ago
- Business
- See - Sada Elbalad
Minister of Tourism and Antiquities Chairs Board Meeting of the National Museum of Egyptian Civilization
Ali abo deshish Today, Mr. Sherif Fathy, Minister of Tourism and Antiquities, chaired the meeting of the Board of Directors of the National Museum of Egyptian Civilization (NMEC) at the museum's headquarters in Fustat. The meeting was attended by Dr. Rania Al-Mashat, Minister of Planning, Economic Development, and International Cooperation. The Minister began the session by welcoming the new board members, expressing his appreciation for their participation and confidence in their valuable contributions to the council's goals through their expertise and forward-looking ideas. During the meeting, the minutes of the previous session were approved. Dr. El-Tayeb Abbas, CEO of the NMEC Authority, delivered a brief presentation on the museum's recent accomplishments, highlighting major events and activities hosted or organized by the museum in cooperation with various governmental and private entities. These included cultural, artistic, scientific, and heritage events, temporary archaeological exhibitions, as well as educational and artistic workshops and training programs. The presentation also covered the museum's performance, revenue growth, and visitor statistics from its inauguration in April 2021 until June 2025. It was noted that the museum has achieved a 28% increase in revenue during this period. Additionally, an overview of the museum's cash flow for the fiscal year 2024/2025 was presented. The meeting featured extensive discussions on strategies to maximize the museum's revenues and attract more local and international visitors, particularly by enhancing the visitor experience. Proposals included upgrading the museum's exhibition layout, improving visitor services, introducing new halls or artifacts, and exploring innovative visit formats, such as interactive display rooms. The board also reviewed the importance of a comprehensive marketing strategy for the museum, incorporating both short-term and long-term plans. This would involve collaboration with a specialized marketing firm. In this context, Minister Fathy emphasized the need for innovative and appealing promotion of the museum as part of the new marketing plan. He stressed leveraging modern marketing tools, especially social media platforms, to promote the museum and its events more effectively. He called for the swift finalization of the marketing plan and related procedures. The board also approved a reduction in the maximum age eligibility for student-priced tickets and permits for archaeological sites and museums to 24 years, effective January 1, 2026. read more New Tourism Route To Launch in Old Cairo Ahmed El Sakka-Led Play 'Sayidati Al Jamila' to Be Staged in KSA on Dec. 6 Mandy Moore Joins Season 2 of "Dr. Death" Anthology Series Don't Miss These Movies at 44th Cairo Int'l Film Festival Today Amr Diab to Headline KSA's MDLBEAST Soundstorm 2022 Festival Arts & Culture Mai Omar Stuns in Latest Instagram Photos Arts & Culture "The Flash" to End with Season 9 Arts & Culture Ministry of Culture Organizes four day Children's Film Festival Arts & Culture Canadian PM wishes Muslims Eid-al-Adha News Israeli-Linked Hadassah Clinic in Moscow Treats Wounded Iranian IRGC Fighters Arts & Culture "Jurassic World Rebirth" Gets Streaming Date News China Launches Largest Ever Aircraft Carrier News Ayat Khaddoura's Final Video Captures Bombardment of Beit Lahia Videos & Features Tragedy Overshadows MC Alger Championship Celebration: One Fan Dead, 11 Injured After Stadium Fall Lifestyle Get to Know 2025 Eid Al Adha Prayer Times in Egypt Business Egyptian Pound Undervalued by 30%, Says Goldman Sachs Arts & Culture South Korean Actress Kang Seo-ha Dies at 31 after Cancer Battle Sports Get to Know 2025 WWE Evolution Results Arts & Culture Lebanese Media: Fayrouz Collapses after Death of Ziad Rahbani
Jordan News
2 days ago
- Sport
- Jordan News
Jordan at the Forefront of Adventure Tourism with Marathon Des Sables 2025 - Jordan News
In a major announcement for Jordan's tourism sector, Minister of Tourism and Antiquities, Lina Annab, and CEO of the Global Marathon Des Sables (MDS), Cyrilie Gauthier, held a press conference in Amman to officially launch the fifth international edition—and the first ever in the Middle East—of the Marathon des Sables, scheduled to take place in Wadi Rum from November 1 to 8, 2025. اضافة اعلان The desert ultramarathon, organized by the Jordan Tourism Board (JTB) and Experience Jordan Adventures, and renowned as one of the world's most challenging endurance races, will bring together approximately 650 runners from across the European Union, marking a significant boost to Jordan's tourism season in November and highlighting the unique landscapes of Wadi Rum. In her remarks to the press, Minister Annab said, 'Hosting the Marathon des Sables for the fifth time in Jordan firmly cements our country's position as a premium adventure travel destination. Over the past decade, Jordan has made significant strides in shaping its adventure tourism landscape, investing in trails, infrastructure, and authentic experiences that connect visitors with our nature, culture, and heritage. From the world-renowned Jordan Trail, which spans more than 650 kilometers through diverse terrains and communities, to this iconic race set against the magnificent backdrop of Wadi Rum, Jordan continues to spotlight the richness and variety of its outdoor offerings.' The minister underlined that marathon tourism 'has become a strategic pillar in our destination planning. It aligns with global trends in wellness and 'live tourism,' offering immersive, shareable experiences that resonate with cultural athletes, runners who view the sport as a way to connect, explore, and reflect shared values.' 'Events like the Marathon des Sables bring athletes whose immersive experiences turn them into storytellers,' she explained, adding, 'Each participant leaves with a deep emotional connection to Jordan—its heritage, its people, and its natural beauty. Wadi Rum offers a demanding physical course set within a landscape that invites reflection, cultural connection, and a sense of spiritual awe. Beyond the race, runners will also have the opportunity to experience the timeless wonder of Petra and the healing stillness of the Dead Sea, two of Jordan's most iconic and transformative landscapes.' Highlighting the marathon as a remarkable opportunity to showcase what Jordan has to offer beyond the racecourse, she said, 'It is an immersive and unforgettable experience, one that transcends geography and time, and remains etched in our guests' memory.' Minister Annab concluded by extending her 'heartfelt gratitude to the organizers of the Marathon des Sables for their continued trust in Jordan, and to all the extraordinary runners joining us from around the world. We look forward to welcoming them this November and wish each participant the very best of luck on this extraordinary journey.' For his part, the CEO of MDS stated, "MDS Jordan has become the crown jewel of our global series—one of the most successful destinations in the history of MDS. Its extraordinary landscapes, unmatched hospitality, and the emotional connection it creates with runners from around the world have set a new benchmark for what adventure racing can be. But this is only the beginning. We have ambitious plans for Jordan. We believe this is the right country to grow, innovate, and build a long-term vision where sport, culture, and tourism intersect in a powerful way. Jordan has all the ingredients to become a global hub for our endurance events, and we are proud to be part of that journey." Managing Director of the Jordan Tourism Board, Dr. Abdelrazzak Arabiyat, stated: "We at the Jordan Tourism Board are proud to support world-class events like the Marathon des Sables. This event not only highlights Jordan's stunning landscapes, but also reflects our ongoing efforts to position the Kingdom as a leading destination for adventure tourism. Through such events, we welcome responsible travelers who are seeking authentic connections with nature, culture, and history. Events like this help visitors discover the true spirit of Jordan and the richness that makes our country truly unique." Commenting on the occasion, CEO of Experience Jordan Adventures, Ayman Abd-AlKareem, said, "As the official local partner, Experience Jordan Adventures is proud to continue hosting this iconic race, which brings together hundreds of international runners in a celebration of endurance, connection, and discovery." He stressed the team's commitment to sustainability and community partnership in Wadi Rum, expressing gratitude for the ongoing support of the Ministry of Tourism, Aqaba Special Economic Zone Authority (ASEZA), and the Jordan Tourism Board in strengthening Jordan's position as a leading adventure travel destination. As a host of the Marathon des Sables, Jordan marks a milestone in its emergence as a leading destination for international sporting and adventure tourism. More than just a race, it offers a transformative experience that blends endurance, culture, and exploration against the breathtaking backdrop of Wadi Rum's desert landscapes. As global interest in adventure travel continues to rise, MDS Jordan positions the country at the forefront of this growing sector, attracting high-value international visitors and supporting the national tourism strategy by showcasing Jordan's natural beauty, heritage, and hospitality on the world stage. ###
See - Sada Elbalad
4 days ago
- Business
- See - Sada Elbalad
Minister of Tourism and Antiquities Launches Egypt's First Online Training Platform in Tourism and Antiquities: EGTAP.com
Ali abo deshish Mr. Sherif Fathy, Minister of Tourism and Antiquities, officially launched Egypt's first online training platform dedicated to the fields of tourism and antiquities, under the name The platform aims to offer accredited and diverse training programs to upskill and qualify human resources within the Ministry and across the tourism and antiquities sectors, in alignment with Egypt's national strategy to invest in human capital and advance digital transformation. In his opening remarks, Minister Fathy emphasized that this initiative is part of the Ministry's broader plan to build capable human resources who can adapt to rapid global changes by leveraging the latest technologies and digital tools to enhance governmental performance. He noted that the development of human capital is a cornerstone in improving service quality and enhancing Egypt's competitiveness as a leading global tourism destination. The Minister explained that the platform offers professional training content tailored to the needs of both public and private sector workers in tourism and antiquities, as well as researchers and students in the field. It provides a variety of training courses, workshops, and programs led by top academics and industry experts, with continuous performance evaluations for both trainers and trainees to ensure effective learning and maximum impact. He added that the platform introduces a flexible and advanced e-learning model that allows users to study from anywhere, at any time, and earn official digital certificates upon successful completion. In the future, the platform is also expected to connect outstanding trainees with job opportunities in the private tourism sector, further enhancing workforce quality. Moreover, the Minister noted that the platform's content will be continuously updated with new programs that reflect sector demands, including areas like sustainable tourism, food safety, marketing, management, hospitality, and more. Minister Fathy also expressed his gratitude to Dr. Amr Talaat, Minister of Communications and Information Technology, and his team, as well as the executing company, for their support in completing the platform's technical infrastructure—highlighting the fruitful cooperation between the two ministries. He also thanked the dedicated team at the Ministry of Tourism and Antiquities for their efforts in finalizing all procedures needed for the platform's launch. The Minister praised the Chamber of Hotel Establishments for recently signing strategic cooperation agreements with two leading global companies in the field of digital hospitality training, noting that the Ministry is providing technical, moral, and financial support for this project. He concluded by stressing the importance of non-traditional training models aimed at enhancing the real capabilities of those working in the tourism and antiquities sectors, underlining that today's launch marks the beginning of a larger journey. In the coming years, the platform is envisioned to become one of the world's leading hubs for professional tourism and antiquities training. During the event, attendees witnessed a live demonstration of the platform, showcasing how to register, navigate the system, and access training materials. The presentation also highlighted featured trainers, major course topics, and the latest news related to the Ministry's training initiatives. Dr. Mohamed Shaaban, Assistant Minister for Digital Services, explained that the platform represents a pivotal step in leveraging technology to support and develop Egypt's tourism and antiquities sectors. He noted that users can register for free at create a personal profile with their basic, professional, and academic information, and enroll in available training courses. A selection of free live-streamed courses is already available, with pre-recorded courses to be added soon. Upon completing any course, users will receive a verified digital certificate. Dr. Soha Bahgat, Advisor to the Minister for Training, highlighted that the platform offers a modern training model tailored to the evolving needs of the sector. It aligns with Egypt's digital transformation goals and provides innovative content developed in collaboration with the Egyptian Tourism Federation and specialized tourism chambers. The content is designed to accommodate diverse professional and academic backgrounds, balancing theoretical knowledge with practical experience. In the same context, Dr. Ahmed Raheemah, Assistant Minister for Human Resources Development and General Supervisor of the Central Training Unit, stated that the platform not only delivers training but also contributes to building clear, structured career paths for sector workers. It ensures equal training opportunities and represents a qualitative leap in the training of Ministry employees and affiliated bodies, with specialized courses in archaeological sites and museums, human development, scientific research, arts and architecture, history and civilization, excavation sciences, and entrepreneurship. He added that this platform is aligned with Egypt's Vision 2030, which emphasizes building human capital and achieving sustainable development through investment in education and training. It supports national efforts to improve workforce efficiency and adaptability to technological changes through flexible, continuous learning opportunities tailored to practical, real-world needs. The event was attended by: • Yomna El-Bahhar, Deputy Minister • Dr. Mohamed Ismail, Secretary-General of the Supreme Council of Antiquities • Eng. Ahmed Youssef, Assistant Minister for Strategic Affairs and Acting CEO of the Egyptian Tourism Promotion Authority • Mr. Ahmed Obeid, Assistant Minister for Administrative Affairs and Permanent Undersecretary • Dr. Ahmed Ghoneim, CEO of the Grand Egyptian Museum Authority • Dr. Tayyeb Abbas, CEO of the National Museum of Egyptian Civilization Authority • Eng. Mostafa Al-Din Imam, Assistant Minister for the Minister's Office Affairs • Mr. Mohamed Fahmy, Assistant Minister for Economic Affairs • Mr. Ehab Salem, Assistant Minister for Internal Audit and Governance • Ms. Samia Sami, Assistant Minister for Tourism Companies Affairs • Counselor Mohamed Kamel Abdel Zaher, Legal Advisor to the Ministry • Mr. Mohamed Amer, Head of the Central Department for Hotel Establishments and Tourism Activities • Dr. Soha Bahgat, Advisor to the Minister for Training • Ms. Riham Samir, Advisor to the Minister for Foreign Affairs • Dr. Mohamed Shaaban, Advisor to the Minister for Digital Services • Eng. Yomna Ismail, Advisor to the Minister for the Grand Egyptian Museum Affairs read more New Tourism Route To Launch in Old Cairo Ahmed El Sakka-Led Play 'Sayidati Al Jamila' to Be Staged in KSA on Dec. 6 Mandy Moore Joins Season 2 of "Dr. Death" Anthology Series Don't Miss These Movies at 44th Cairo Int'l Film Festival Today Amr Diab to Headline KSA's MDLBEAST Soundstorm 2022 Festival Arts & Culture Mai Omar Stuns in Latest Instagram Photos Arts & Culture "The Flash" to End with Season 9 Arts & Culture Ministry of Culture Organizes four day Children's Film Festival Arts & Culture Canadian PM wishes Muslims Eid-al-Adha News Israeli-Linked Hadassah Clinic in Moscow Treats Wounded Iranian IRGC Fighters Arts & Culture "Jurassic World Rebirth" Gets Streaming Date News China Launches Largest Ever Aircraft Carrier Videos & Features Tragedy Overshadows MC Alger Championship Celebration: One Fan Dead, 11 Injured After Stadium Fall Lifestyle Get to Know 2025 Eid Al Adha Prayer Times in Egypt Business Egyptian Pound Undervalued by 30%, Says Goldman Sachs Arts & Culture South Korean Actress Kang Seo-ha Dies at 31 after Cancer Battle Sports Get to Know 2025 WWE Evolution Results News "Tensions Escalate: Iran Probes Allegations of Indian Tech Collaboration with Israeli Intelligence" Arts & Culture Hawass Foundation Launches 1st Course to Teach Ancient Egyptian Language
See - Sada Elbalad
4 days ago
- Business
- See - Sada Elbalad
Minister of Tourism and Antiquities Meets Over 20 New Egyptian Ambassadors and Consuls Before Their Overseas Appointments
Ali abo deshish In a broad meeting held at the headquarters of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Emigration in Egypt's New Administrative Capital, Mr. Sherif Fathy, Minister of Tourism and Antiquities, met with more than 20 newly appointed ambassadors and consuls general who are set to represent Egypt abroad. This meeting comes within the framework of ongoing coordination and cooperation between the Ministry of Tourism and Antiquities and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Emigration. At the outset, Minister Sherif Fathy welcomed the diplomats, wishing them success in their new assignments. He emphasized the critical role they play in promoting Egyptian tourism abroad and in presenting a modern and comprehensive image of Egypt that reflects both its ancient civilization and its contemporary development. He stressed the importance of highlighting Egypt's rich tourism assets and the diversity and uniqueness of its tourism products and experiences, in a way that enhances Egypt's global tourism position and attracts more tourists and investments. The Minister presented the vision and mission of the Ministry, along with the main pillars of its current strategy, which focuses on positioning Egypt as the world's leading destination in terms of the variety of tourism products it offers—from cultural, beach, and spiritual tourism to desert adventures and more. He further explained that the Ministry's strategy aims to achieve sustainable economic security through tourism, by generating long-term returns that positively impact local communities surrounding heritage and tourism sites. This, in turn, fosters a culture of preservation and care for these sites. Minister Fathy also spoke about the Ministry's commitment to regularly updating its strategies and action plans in response to current and future developments, based on comprehensive analyses and market forecasts, especially in light of global political and economic changes. He underscored that training, qualification, and development of human capital—particularly young, talented professionals with specialized skills—is a top priority for the Ministry. Investing in human resources is a cornerstone of the Ministry's vision for sustainable sectoral growth. The Minister highlighted Egypt's keenness to engage in international knowledge exchange in the fields of tourism and antiquities, including the organization of professional joint workshops. He referenced a recent workshop held on the sidelines of the Arabian Travel Market (ATM) in Dubai, which brought together Egyptian and Bahraini travel companies to lay the groundwork for future cooperation. He also reviewed the ongoing service development project at the Giza Pyramids area, part of the Ministry's broader efforts to enhance the visitor experience at Egyptian museums and archaeological sites. He pointed to the Ministry's collaboration with the Ministry of Agriculture and relevant animal welfare NGOs to ensure the well-being of horses, camels, and other animals at archaeological areas, especially in Giza. Minister Fathy reaffirmed the Egyptian government's full commitment to preserving the country's heritage and history, while also exploring ways to maximize the economic benefits of antiquities without compromising their cultural value or harming the surrounding environment. He noted the Ministry is currently working with UNESCO on several major initiatives and projects. He also stressed Egypt's unwavering determination—through continued cooperation between the Ministry of Tourism and Antiquities and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Emigration—to repatriate Egyptian antiquities that were illegally taken abroad. The Minister discussed the significant role that temporary exhibitions of Egyptian antiquities held abroad play in promoting Egypt's tourism sector and showcasing its diverse offerings. He referred to the recent approval by the Supreme Council of Antiquities to host two temporary exhibitions in Italy and Hong Kong, which will serve as powerful tools for destination marketing in those countries. At the conclusion of the meeting, the Minister responded to several questions and inquiries from the diplomats regarding the tourism and antiquities sectors, and listened attentively to their suggestions and ideas. Also attending the meeting was Eng. Ahmed Youssef, Assistant Minister for Strategic Affairs and Acting CEO of the Egyptian Tourism Promotion Authority. read more New Tourism Route To Launch in Old Cairo Ahmed El Sakka-Led Play 'Sayidati Al Jamila' to Be Staged in KSA on Dec. 6 Mandy Moore Joins Season 2 of "Dr. Death" Anthology Series Don't Miss These Movies at 44th Cairo Int'l Film Festival Today Amr Diab to Headline KSA's MDLBEAST Soundstorm 2022 Festival Arts & Culture Mai Omar Stuns in Latest Instagram Photos Arts & Culture "The Flash" to End with Season 9 Arts & Culture Ministry of Culture Organizes four day Children's Film Festival Arts & Culture Canadian PM wishes Muslims Eid-al-Adha News Israeli-Linked Hadassah Clinic in Moscow Treats Wounded Iranian IRGC Fighters Arts & Culture "Jurassic World Rebirth" Gets Streaming Date News China Launches Largest Ever Aircraft Carrier Videos & Features Tragedy Overshadows MC Alger Championship Celebration: One Fan Dead, 11 Injured After Stadium Fall Lifestyle Get to Know 2025 Eid Al Adha Prayer Times in Egypt Business Egyptian Pound Undervalued by 30%, Says Goldman Sachs Arts & Culture South Korean Actress Kang Seo-ha Dies at 31 after Cancer Battle Sports Get to Know 2025 WWE Evolution Results News "Tensions Escalate: Iran Probes Allegations of Indian Tech Collaboration with Israeli Intelligence" Arts & Culture Hawass Foundation Launches 1st Course to Teach Ancient Egyptian Language
Watani
4 days ago
- General
- Watani
Ancient Coptic city unearthed in Western Desert
An Egyptian archaeological mission from the Supreme Council of Antiquities (SCA) has unveiled a significant discovery in the heart of the Western Desert of the remains of the central residential city of Kharga Oasis, dating back to the early Coptic (Egyptian Christian) period that extended from the first to the 8th century AD—a period during which Egypt was under Roman and Arab rule ; the Arabs conquered Egypt in 640. Located in Ain al-Kharab archaeological site some 5km north of the city of all-Kharga, the unearthed ancient city offers rare insight into Egypt's transition to Christianity. Among the findings are the ruins of residential structures, churches, and cemeteries, also a mural depicting Christ healing a sick person. Minister of Tourism and Antiquities, Sherif Fathy, described the discovery as a testament to the depth and diversity of Egyptian civilisation during one of its most transformative periods. 'This find enriches our understanding of religious transition in Egypt,' he said. 'This discovery is considered a valuable window into early Christian life in Egypt,' asserted Mohamed Ismail Khaled, Secretary-General of the SCA. 'Kharga Oasis played a key role as a religious and social hub throughout many historical periods,' he said. Mr Khaled explained that the unearthed structures include mudbrick homes with plastered walls, service areas fitted with ovens, and storage spaces containing large fixed pottery jars once used for preserving food and grain. The mission also recovered ostraca, pottery fragments, glass and stone artefacts, burial remains, and a vivid mural illustrating Christ performing a healing miracle. Findings from previous excavation seasons, Mr Khaled added, indicate that the site was used continuously throughout several centuries. Roman-era buildings were later adapted for use during the early Coptic period and again in the Islamic era. Seham Ismail, Director General of Antiquities in Kharga and head of the mission, revealed that the team also uncovered the remains of two churches. One, she explained, is a large basilica-style church featuring a central hall flanked by two aisles, separated by rows of square columns, with service buildings to the south. The second church is smaller, she said, rectangular in shape, with remnants of seven exterior columns and Coptic inscriptions still visible on its interior walls. Additional service structures were found on its western side. According to archaeology expert Abdel-Rehim Rihan, member of the SCA's History and Antiquities Commission, al-Kharga Oasis some 600km southwest Cairo, saw large incoming waves of Christians in the 3rd century AD, apparently fleeing to Kharga from Roman persecution. The numbers swelled to the point where the Alexandria Church installed a Bishop in Kharga. Christians were able to practise their faith and worship freely there, far from the eyes of the Roman authorities. They left behind towns, churches, cemeteries, and monasteries. The famous Bagawat necropolis in Kharga, believed to be the cemetery of the recently discovered city, is considered one of the oldest and best-preserved Christian cemeteries in the world. It dates back to the 3rd to 7th centuries AD and contains hundreds of mud-brick tombs, some with elaborate frescoes depicting biblical scenes. Comments comments Tags: Ancient Coptic city in Kharga OasisSanaa' Farouk
