Tunisia Accelerates Strategy to Transform Coastline and Islands into Drivers of Sustainable Tourism and Blue Economy
The Tunisian government is accelerating its strategy to transform its coastline and islands into drivers of sustainable tourism and blue economy. This was the message conveyed by the Minister of Tourism, Sofiene Tekaya, during the opening of the national conference on "Sustainable Coastal Tourism in the Mediterranean Space", held on Tuesday, May 12, 2026.
A Strategic Position and Rich Heritage
Before representatives from several ministries, maritime sector actors, and tourism and environment experts, the minister affirmed that Tunisia has all the necessary assets to develop an integrated model of sustainable coastal tourism, thanks to its strategic position in the Mediterranean and the richness of its natural and cultural heritage. The ministry is particularly counting on the 1,300 kilometers of Tunisian coastline to create a new economic and tourist dynamic.
Objectives and Strategies
The objective is to make each region a tourist and development hub capable of enhancing its natural, cultural, and maritime specificities, while strengthening the link between coastal areas and the interior of the country. Among the figures highlighted during the conference, Tunisia currently has six major marinas offering over 2,930 mooring rings. The country also has an important network of thalassotherapy and wellness tourism centers with international dimensions, allowing it to maintain its position among the most recognized global destinations in this sector.
The Central Role of Islands
Tunisian islands also occupy a central place in this vision. Djerba was presented as an example of a combination of tourism, culture, and sustainability. The minister also mentioned the opportunities offered by the islands of Kerkennah, Kneiss, and Zembra to develop ecotourism, scientific tourism, and activities related to the local maritime economy. The Ministry of Tourism now wants to make Tunisian islands laboratories for innovation in sustainable tourism, through the development of renewable energies, sustainable maritime transport, and intelligent management of resources.
Encouraging Local Initiatives and Youth Investment
The authorities also wish to encourage more local initiatives and projects carried by young investors. By transforming its coastline and islands into drivers of sustainable tourism and blue economy, Tunisia aims to create a new economic and tourist dynamic, while preserving its natural and cultural heritage for future generations.
