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Somabay Golf

Somabay Golf

Somabay, Egypt

Sustainable Golf Pledge

We are committed to social and environmental responsibility, in and through golf.

We recognize the importance of playing our part to protect and restore nature, conserve resources, take climate action and strengthen communities.

We will seek to use our reach to raise awareness and positive action amongst golfers, partners and the wider public.

We will make an important difference, and help golf become a valued leader in sustainability.

GEO Certified

Through becoming GEO Certified we have achieved the most widely regarded and credible sustainability distinction in golf.  The international certification was earned after successfully meeting the industry-standard best practices and demonstrating our commitment to make sustainability of central importance to our golf facility.  We're proud of our social and environmental value - and looking forward to doing even more on our sustainability journey.

Certified 2024 - 2026, for renewal 2027

Notable Observations

  • Habitat Awareness and Conservation: Somabay is aware of its proximity to sensitive ecosystems, including the Red Sea coral reef and important flyways for migratory birds. While habitats and species have not been comprehensively mapped, the presence of diverse wildlife such as Osprey, turtles, and other species has been acknowledged. Initiatives such as birdbox installations and a pollinator garden for bees demonstrate efforts to enhance biodiversity.
  • Environmental Initiatives: A pilot clam cultivation project aims to reduce harvesting from marine environments and potentially support reef ecosystems through reintroduction. Collaboration with the Hurghada Environmental Protection and Conservation Association (HEPCA) addresses illegal fishing and marine conservation efforts.
  • Water Efficiency: Water management is highly adaptive, with measures such as daily irrigation planning informed by weather and soil conditions. The transition to Seashore Paspalum, a more water-efficient turf, and the installation of new irrigation systems have reduced water wastage​.
  • Renewable Energy Use: The course and associated facilities are powered by a photovoltaic plant that supports desalination and wastewater treatment operations. This highlights a commitment to renewable energy sources and reducing the carbon footprint​.
  • Educational Outreach: The facility engages the community with environmental awareness campaigns, including celebrating international days such as Earth Day and World Water Day. Local school visits to the desalination and wastewater treatment plants foster environmental education​.
  • Inclusive Recreational Activities: Beyond golf, the facility offers diverse amenities such as swimming pools, padel courts, and accessible pathways for walkers and runners. This multi-use approach enhances community engagement and accessibility​.
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Somabay Golf is a spectacular course located in a desert environment on the edge of the Red Sea and its sensitive and important coral reef ecosystem. The juxtaposition of the brilliant emerald-coloured tees, fairways, and greens; light sand-coloured bunkers, waste areas, and adjacent desert; and aquamarine sea are striking yet in aesthetic harmony. The course includes a suite of multi-sport facilities, including an 18-hole course, 9-hole par-3 course and scoring arena, Golf Academy and driving range, foot and boat golf, 25m and 50m swimming pools, two padel courts, and an official sized football pitch. The course presents opportunities to be challenged or play a friendly round by virtue of the carefully considered tee options and the time of day that influences the wind strength.The facility is carefully and adaptively managed to minimise chemical, energy and water use.

Warrick Stewart (GEO accredited independent verifier)
GEO Certified Reports
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