Egypt’s Ministry of Environment has closed off 3km of coastline in the popular tourist location of Hurghada after a shark attack left a Russian tourist dead on Saturday. The incident marks the second fatal shark attack in Hurghada in just two years, with a Romanian and an Austrian tourist also killed in 2022.
The unidentified Russian tourist was snorkeling just 20m from the beach when he was attacked by a tiger shark. Onlookers reportedly heard him shouting “Sharks, sharks! Save yourself!” He died minutes later. The shark responsible for the attack has been caught and transported to a laboratory for examination.
Shark attacks on the Egyptian coastline are rare, so authorities are reviewing cohorts. The coastal area spanning 74km is now closed until 13 June in a bid to ensure the safety of locals and tourists.
Egyptian tourism has struggled due to political instability, the COVID-19 pandemic, and the war in Ukraine. With the nation’s reliance on the tourism industry, steps must be taken to ensure visitors feel safe to return to the country’s many coastal locales.
The country’s Environment Ministry said the watchdogs were taking steps to ensure the safety of the country’s wildlife, including its vulnerable corals and the shark’s habitat. The Red Sea’s ecosystem plays an important role in the local economy, attracting tourists who enjoy diving and swimming in the clear, coral-rich waters.
This incident demonstrates the need for continued education and vigilance when swimming and snorkeling in international locations. While fatal shark attacks are relatively rare worldwide, they can happen and should be taken seriously. The Ministry of Environment advised tourists to abide by all local directives to remain safe while enjoying the country’s stunning coastlines and wildlife.
