Sharm El-Sheikh Earns Merit Award in 2026 World Green City Awards

Sharm El-Sheikh has received a Certificate of Merit in the 2026 World Green City Awards, recognising the Red Sea city for its use of plant-centred approaches in urban development. The recognition was announced by the International Association of Horticultural Producers during its 78th annual congress in Bari, Italy.

The World Green City Awards recognise cities that incorporate plants and horticulture into planning, policy and long-term development. Entries are assessed on outcomes including climate resilience, biodiversity, public health and liveability, with urban greenery considered part of essential infrastructure for functions such as heat reduction, stormwater management and community wellbeing.

A total of 21 finalists reached the final stage of the 2026 awards, with eight cities named as category winners. Paris received the overall Grand Winner title for its city-wide approach to integrating biodiversity across a dense urban environment.

The International Association of Horticultural Producers describes the awards as a global platform for showcasing how urban greening can strengthen communities, improve environmental performance and support long-term economic vitality.