Shark attack beach re-opens

The Egyptian resort of Sharm el-Sheikh is returning to normal this week after a spate of horrific shark attacks hit the winter sun hotspot.

A number of beaches along Sharm el-Sheikh's coastline remain indefinitely closed but a kilometre-long stretch of beach has now reopened, The Guardian reported.

In the past three weeks, shark attacks at the Red Sea resort have left a 70-year-old German woman dead and many more injured.

But beaches are beginning to reopen on the proviso that hotel owners adhere to a list of strict controls, such as patrolling the sea, setting up special watchtowers along the shoreline and providing specially designated swimming areas for holidaymakers.

Bosses at the resort, which has long been popular with people seeking a winter getaway, will be hoping the attacks don't cause too many cancellations.

Tourism makes up 11 per cent of Egypt's GDP and employs up to 12 per cent of the workforce.

- AGENCIES