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A brief history of the birth and developement of Roots Red Sea
Roots Camp was originally established back in 2006, at this time, it was constructed with traditional materials to a very basic standard, however, this proved to be a poor decision as the camp failed to attract its target market of Eco tourists and backpackers.
Roots was first established as a small eco camp in El Quseir, designed primarily for backpackers and eco-tourists seeking a simple, nature-connected Red Sea experience. Built using traditional materials, the camp focused on sustainability and authenticity. These humble beginnings laid the foundation for what Roots would later become.
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After facing early operational challenges, the owners made a bold decision to reposition the property. The focus shifted toward the specialist diving market, recognizing the potential of the Red Sea as a world-class dive destination. Plans were made to upgrade facilities with improved accommodation standards and to recruit a professional dive centre operator.
Substantial investment took place and dramatic improvements were introduced including the change of name to Roots Luxury Camp. During this period of construction, Pharaoh Dive Club were approached to come and run a professional dive operation as the centre piece to the relaunch. The new Roots Luxury Camp reopened in January 2011 with 11 modern chalets and the core restaurant almost completed. Plans were a foot to continue the redevelopment with further new rooms and other facilities, however, the Arab Spring uprising unfortunately scuppered these good intentions.
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As there was zero tourism in Egypt, with all but the UK cancelling flights, the owner decided to close the camp. Pharaoh Dive Club at this point saw the real potential of the new concept camp and agreed with the owner to take over the operation of Roots Luxury Camp. Many years later their faith in the potential has proven well founded.
The original eco huts on the upper terrace were removed to make space for higher-quality Superior Boutique Rooms. This upgrade reflected the ongoing commitment to comfort, design, and improved guest experience.
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A new reception building and swimming pool were added, significantly enhancing the resort’s hospitality offering, setting Roots a cut above the other camps throughout Egypt. These developments improved both functionality and aesthetic appeal, making Roots more attractive to international guests.
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Further improvements included development of the restaurant terrace, wash house facilities, and beach dive center. These upgrades supported the growing number of guests and divers visiting the resort.
The last of the original rooms, the Eco Huts, desperatey needed bring up to modern day standards, primarily making them weather proof with a complete new upper structure and roof. The design was to provide multiple occupancy accommodation aimed at the student group market. This period marked a key identity shift as the property became known as Roots Red Sea, reflecting a more established and professional brand presence.
For the one and only time, Roots had to close the doors for a month while the kitchens and supporting areas were completely rebuilt. The closure was essential to be able to bring the required upgrades to improve service efficiency and food quality.
After a major water leak caused subsidence issues affected the foyer area, the decision was made to knock it down and rebuild the foundation. Utilising the opportunity, a new on-site shop was also introduced, enhancing convenience for guests and divers.
Work began on improving the private beach area starting with a total refurbishment and enlargement of the café and restroom facilities. These developments strengthened Roots’ appeal as a relaxed beachfront dive retreat.
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As Roots grows more space was required to provide the guests with areas to chill out and relax, the hideaway snug was created with wind protection and a camp fire for the winter.
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With the increase of academic facilities bringing groups for field study, the Open Ocean Field Station was upgraded to cater for 30 plus students needs.
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With the rooms becoming dated, the decision was taken to refurbish the chalets. The internal wet room facilities are moved to a new build bathroom to the rear, and the rooms have a full make over with bright Bedouin designs and improved lighting.
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Bringing privacy and convienence to the showering experience, the new wash house provides cubilces with seperate seated change area. A new roof provides protection from sun and sand, and the improved lighting enhances the whole experience. Additionally, the wash house grey water is now captured and utilised for watering the expanding gardens.
The new Chill Out areas built into a dry, sandy desert landscape with hills rising in the background surrounded by ornamental grasses, green groundcover plants, and flowering desert shrubs frame the seating area, contrasting with the arid terrain. I perfect places to absorb the ambiance.
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After years of delays awaiting the opportunity to close the dive centre, the core of Roots Red Sea, a window finally occured! No time was wasted, the old centre was completely demolished and cncstruction had begun even before the last guests had left for the flight home! The design was set in stone based on the experience of operation at Roots and it soon took shape and ready to reopen in less than 10 days!
As the original sunshades had had their best days, the new solution was designed and handed to volunteer Tom to bring to fruition. What a fantastic job he made of them too.
Of course, the beach diving centre is one of the busiest facilites at Roots and is in need of constant maintenance and upgrades. Whether its a new roof to protect from the sun, refurbishing the showers, providing more seating, there is always more to do. The biggest change this year is provision of a dedicated Camera Room with its own wash tank, charging area, air brush and work bench, its proving very popular.
