Advisor:Solar alignment on Ramses II of paramount relevance

Advisor to Tourism Minister, Dr. Sameh Saad said that the whole world witnessed the marvelous phenomenon of the sun perpendicular to the face of King Ramses II at the

Advisor to Tourism Minister, Dr. Sameh Saad said that the whole world witnessed the marvelous phenomenon of the sun perpendicular to the face of King Ramses II at the Temple of Abu Simbel which occurs twice a year: in February 22^nd celebrating his coronation, and in October 22^nd marking his birthday. The sun shines for ten minutes on the face of the statue of the king, he illustrated. 

Over the phone to (Cairo Local Time), he asserted that it is a unique event that promotes the ancient Egyptian civilization and tourism. Lots of ambassadors attended the event as well as foreign dignitaries which transfers a positive message that they trust Egypt’s security and serenity, he said. 

He added that Luxor is becoming the largest open museum in the world due to its monuments, antiquities and magnificent winter season. Moreover, the government has issued a decision to reopen 100% hotel occupancy rates which will allow hotels to return to their full capacity in the winter season. Thus, he continued, the hotels will be able to recover financially from what they suffered during the last couple of years. 

He clarified that some important attractions have been added to the touristic places in Egypt; there is a diversification in various kinds of tourism such as beach, cultural, religious, environmental, sports, conference tourism, etc. We established museums, Dr Saad indicated, in many cities and the big Luxor Museum is going to be inaugurated in the coming days. 

(Cairo Local Time) is aired from Saturday to Thursday. This episode is presented by Engy Maher.