A shark attack off Egypt’s Red Sea coast claimed the life of an Italian tourist and left another injured, officials confirmed on Sunday.
According to Egypt’s environment ministry, the incident occurred in deep waters near Marsa Alam. Both victims were Italian nationals, identified as a 48-year-old man from Rome who tragically lost his life and a 69-year-old man who sustained injuries. They were transported to a hospital in Port Ghalib, approximately 50 kilometres north of Marsa Alam.
“Two foreigners were attacked by a shark in the northern Marsa Alam area, which led to the injury of one and the death of the other,” Egypt’s environment ministry said.
In response, authorities have temporarily closed the area to swimmers for two days. The environment ministry emphasised that the attack took place outside the designated swimming area.
The Red Sea, known for its vibrant marine life, is a significant draw for divers and a critical source of income for Egypt, which is grappling with its worst economic crisis in history.
Shark attacks, though rare, are a near-yearly occurrence in the region. Marine experts attribute the increased frequency to factors such as unregulated construction, over-fishing, and unsustainable tourism practices, which disrupt the ecosystem and alter shark behaviour.
This incident follows a tragic wave of maritime accidents in the area. Just last month, four people died when a dive boat carrying over 30 tourists capsized off Marsa Alam. In June 2023, a Russian tourist lost his life in a shark attack near Hurghada.
