In the southern part of Egypt’s Wadi El Gemal National Park, between the vast sands of the Sahara and the turquoise waters of the Red Sea, lies El-Qulaan — a remarkable eco-village that blends Bedouin traditions with a deep respect for nature.
The Spirit of the Ababda People
Home to around twenty families from the Ababda tribe, Al-Qulaan represents a rare balance between culture and conservation. The Ababda have lived in this desert for centuries, herding, fishing, and following natural rhythms.
Now, many work in eco-tourism, guiding visitors, sharing local stories, and offering traditional meals. As one elder, Abu Nesma, explains:
“We live with the desert, not against it. If you take too much, the land will take back.”
A Haven of Biodiversity
The area is famous for its mangrove forests, coral reefs, and endangered marine life such as dugongs and hawksbill turtles. These mangroves provide shelter for countless species and absorb carbon dioxide, helping to fight climate change.
Eco-Transformation and Hope
In 2018, a solar power station and desalination plant were installed in Al-Qulaan, providing electricity and clean water to the community. Supported by environmental groups, the village has shifted from fishing to sustainable tourism — a change that benefits both people and nature.
Visitors can explore the mangrove lagoons, enjoy traditional dinners under the stars, and learn how this small village became a model of eco-conscious living in Egypt.
Al-Qulaan stands as proof that travel and preservation can go hand in hand, showing a new path for sustainable tourism in North Africa.