The announcement was made during the 122nd session of the UNWTO Executive Council in Cartagena de Indias, Colombia. 

This recognition honours villages that meet the UNWTO’s strict criteria and focus on sustainable tourism, cultural preservation, and community development. 

Adel El-Gendy, Director General of Strategic Management at the Ministry of Tourism and Antiquities, accepted the awards at a ceremony attended by UNWTO Secretary-General Zurab Pololikashvili, regional dignitaries, and senior Colombian tourism officials. 

El-Gendy emphasized the ministry’s efforts to promote rural tourism and support local communities by upgrading infrastructure, offering resident training, and organizing workshops on sustainable tourism, visitor engagement, and environmental management. 

Gharb Suhail, a charming Nubian village on Aswan’s Nile bank, captivates visitors with its traditional architecture, vibrant crafts, and rich cultural experiences. It preserves the heritage and customs of the Nubian people, offering an authentic glimpse into their way of life. 

Abu Ghosoun, near the Hankorab Nature Reserve in the southern Red Sea, stands out for its eco-friendly tourism. Residents provide meaningful cultural experiences while maintaining a strong commitment to environmental preservation. 

Minister of Tourism and Antiquities Sherif Fathi praised the recognition as a reflection of the ministry's and communities’ dedication. He highlighted Egypt’s growing reputation as a hub for diverse and sustainable tourism and congratulated everyone involved in this achievement. 

With this award, Egypt now boasts four villages on the UNWTO’s prestigious list: West Suhail and Abu Ghosoun in 2024, alongside Dahshur in Giza and Siwa in Matrouh, recognized in 2023. Foua in Kafr El-Sheikh and St. Catherine in South Sinai were also added to the UNWTO upgrade list in 2021 and 2023, respectively. 

The Best Rural Tourism Villages initiative, launched by the UNWTO in 2021, honours rural communities worldwide for their tourism contributions. This year, 260 villages competed, with only 55 making the final list.