Israel Planning Desert Resort

Press, Volume CIX, Issue 32130, 28 October 1969, Page 25

Israel Planning Desert Resort

(N Z.P A.-Reuter- —<Copyright) SHARM-EL-SHEIK (Sinai Desert). The Army huts dotted round the sandblown outpost give little hint of plans taking shape to turn Sharm-el-Sheikh into a luxury desert playground.

Some 200 Israeli soldiers and construction workers living under the rugged grandeur of the southern Sinai Mountains lead a curious double life, mixing an often spartan existence with a highclass style of recreation. After toiling in blistering heat, when temperatures can soar to 131 degrees Fahrenheit, they have a choice of deep-sea fishing in the turquoise waters of the Tiran Straits, speed-boating among the lagoons and inlets around the coast, or driving inland between the red granite peaks to Biblical and archaeological sites. There is competition among Israeli soldiers to be posted to Sharm-el-Sheikh, yet the men and women stationed there are wholly dependent on provisions and equipment brought three times a week from Eilat, Israel's only commercial fishing outlet to the Red Sea. Straits Vital The bustling port of Eilat can continue to function only while free passage is ensured through the Tiran Straits, which were blockaded by Egypt in a move which led to the six-day war of June, 1967. The strategic importance of Sharm-el-Sheikh has long been established, and plans are being worked out to give a second role to the scorched outpost sandwiched between

the coasts of Egypt and Saudi Arabia.

Among increasing indications that Israel has no intention of giving up Sharm-el-Sheikh, occupied since the six-day war, the Ministry of Tourism has schemes in hand to develop the region into what could become the foremost luxury resort in the Middle East. In spite of the absence so far of tourist accommodation, some holidaymakers are already sampling the natural attractions of the area, sailing from Eilat and sleeping on board ship. Road Being Built A road linking Sharm-el-Sheikb with Eilat is expected to be completed next year and in the coming winter work is likely to start on a luxury hotel overlooking nearby Tiran Island and offering a complete range of water sports. The Ministry of Tourism expects to announce plans soon for a tourist hostel which will provide facilities for holidaymakers until more extensive accommodation is available. One of the chief problems jn developing Sharm-el-Sheikh is the total absence of fresh water in the immediate area, but nearby mountain peaks are capped with snow in the winter and military teams plan to trace the course taken by the melting snows. Tanks For Jordan

While architects and investors are drawing up plans to develop Sharm-el-Sheikh, the passage of ships through the Tiran Straits, two or three a day, continues uninterrupted. Ships of all flags are allowed through the seaway, including vessels bound for the Jordanian port of Aqaba which is less than three miles from Eilat.

“Recently an American ship carrying tanks for Jordan passed under our noses,’’ said a senior army officer. “We knew what the cargo was but we are here to ensure all ships pass freely.”