A shark attack off the coast of Marsa Alam in Egypt’s Red Sea province claimed the life of an Italian tourist and left another injured, according to the Egyptian Environment Ministry.
The incident occurred in the northern area of Marsa Alam, a popular destination for diving and snorkeling enthusiasts.
Local media reports identified the deceased as a 48-year-old Roman citizen, while the injured tourist, also Italian, was admitted to Porto Ghalib Hospital. Authorities have not released the names of the victims, but investigations are underway to determine the cause of the attack and assess the presence of sharks in the area.
Following the incident, Environment Minister Yasmin Fuad ordered the immediate formation of a committee to investigate the attack and monitor shark activity in the region. As a precautionary measure, swimming and water activities in the affected area will be prohibited for two days, starting Monday.
Shark attacks in the Red Sea are rare but not unheard of. In June 2023, a Russian tourist died after being attacked by a shark in Hurghada, located south of Marsa Alam. Similarly, in July 2022, two women were killed in shark attacks off the coast of Sahl Hashesh, another tourist hotspot in the region.
Egypt’s Red Sea coast attracts thousands of tourists each year, drawn by its crystal-clear waters, vibrant coral reefs, and diverse marine life. However, the presence of sharks poses occasional risks, prompting authorities to monitor nature reserves and implement safety measures to protect both tourists and marine ecosystems.
Tourism plays a crucial role in Egypt’s economy, and the Red Sea region is a major draw for visitors from Europe and Russia. The beach closures are expected to temporarily disrupt local businesses, including hotels and dive centers, but officials stress that such measures are necessary to ensure public safety.
Minister Fuad emphasized the importance of stability in the area, noting that shark monitoring efforts will continue in the coming days. The goal is to prevent further incidents while allowing beaches and tourist sites to reopen safely.
This latest tragedy reminds us of the unpredictable nature of the sea and the importance of caution when swimming or diving in unfamiliar waters. While the risk of shark attacks remains low, tourists are encouraged to follow local guidelines and respect temporary restrictions imposed by authorities.
