UNDP, UN-Habitat launch rural tourism project in Egypt’s Qena

The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) and UN-Habitat signed an agreement on Saturday to launch the Dendera Revitalisation Project in Qena Governorate, aimed at developing rural and cultural tourism around the historic Dendera Temple Complex, Egypt’s Cabinet said.

Egypt’s Planning and International Cooperation Minister Rania Al-Mashat witnessed the signing, attended by Qena Governor Khaled Abdel Halim, UN Resident Representative Chitose Noguch, and UN Resident Coordinator in Egypt Elena Panova.

The project, carried out with consultancy firm Takween Integrated Community Development, will link cultural heritage with local economic opportunities. It will engage local communities in shaping a roadmap for tourism and development, starting with a revival plan, a tourism competitiveness strategy, and a new identity for Dendera.

A second phase will focus on restoration, visitor services, and high-quality tourism products including handicrafts, folk performances, farm visits, and local cuisine.

Al-Mashat said the initiative builds on the presidential Decent Life Programme, which has benefited 1.5 million people in Qena. Panova added the project underscores UN partnerships and comes as the United Nations marks its 80th anniversary.

Abdel Halim said Qena aims to integrate rural and cultural tourism to put Dendera on Egypt’s main tourist map.

Attribution: Amwal Al Ghad English

Subediting: Y.Yasser