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Samadai : The Dolphin House

A year ago, HEPCA took on itself the responsibility of managing Samadai, believing that it's part of our responsibility to set a best practice model of managing natural resources, while supporting the tourism economy. And in recognition of our efforts in the last year, Governor/Ahmed Abdalla, renewed the governorate's confidence in HEPCA's management of Samadi. And here is a summary of the development of Samadi under HEPCA's management, since March 2013: We organized training workshops for all dive guides operating in the south. During the workshops they were introduced to the nature of Samadi, and its management system. And they were trained on how to responsibly interact with the dolphins in Samadi and their nature. Then, 300 dive guides were certified as a “Samadai Certified Dive Guides' and they were given Photo IDs allowing them to operate in the area. We produced a “Samadai Guide” introducing the reader to the nature of Samadi, and its dolphins. And each certified dive received a copy. Also, copied are available for visitors. We developed a best practice guide for visitors and boat captains, and it was handed out to all diving and snorkeling guides, and boat captains both in hard copy and electronic forms. On the level of marketing, we had to redesign the ticket, so its visual design would reflect the beauty of the area, and turn the turn the ticket itself into a souvenir. We gave special attention to the students of Marsa Alam schools. To educate them on the importance of Samadi , by organizing trips to the area. During the trips the students got to enjoy Samadi, while learning about its environment. Our patrolling boats ensure that all diving guides and visitors at all times are following the guidelines and aren't not putting the dolphins or any visitors in danger.