Are you searching for a second home to buy?
Egypt, the land of ancient civilization and natural beauty, is increasingly gaining attention as a hotspot for real estate investment—particularly in second homes. From the turquoise waters of the Red Sea to the Mediterranean charm of the North Coast, Egypt offers a range of resort destinations ideal for vacationers and long-term investors alike.
With a favorable climate, relatively low cost of living, and a stable real estate market, Egypt presents an attractive option for both local and international buyers. Whether you’re seeking a peaceful beachside retreat, a family-friendly resort, or a luxury waterfront property, here are the top resorts in Egypt for buying a second home.
El Gouna – The Red Sea’s Riviera
Location: 25 km north of Hurghada
Ideal For: Luxury lifestyle, water sports enthusiasts, expats
El Gouna is often dubbed the “Venice of the Red Sea” thanks to its winding canals, lagoons, and high-end architecture. Developed by Orascom Development, it’s a self-sufficient resort town with a well-planned infrastructure, international schools, a hospital, and even a small airport.
El Gouna is famous for its:
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Stunning lagoons and private beaches
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Vibrant marina with restaurants and cafes
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Championship golf course
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Kite surfing and scuba diving schools
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Strict sustainability and environmental practices
Why Buy Here?
Properties range from luxury villas and waterfront townhouses to stylish apartments. It’s ideal for investors seeking strong rental returns, particularly from European tourists and expats. It’s also a safe and gated environment suitable for families.
Sahl Hasheesh – Tranquil Elegance by the Sea
Location: 18 km south of Hurghada
Ideal For: Peace and privacy, retirees, romantic getaways
Sahl Hasheesh is a quieter, more upscale alternative to Hurghada. The master-planned community boasts wide boulevards, pristine beaches, and Mediterranean-style architecture. It has a slower pace of life that appeals to those seeking tranquility.
Highlights include:
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A 12.5 km beachfront promenade
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Underwater “sunken city” for divers
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Gated compounds with 24/7 security
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Boutique hotels and private clubs
Why Buy Here?
Sahl Hasheesh offers premium yet competitively priced real estate, with beachfront villas, sea-view apartments, and resort condos available. Many properties come fully furnished and offer property management services, ideal for absentee homeowners.
North Coast (Sahel) – Egypt’s Summer Playground
Location: Stretching west of Alexandria to Marsa Matrouh
Ideal For: Summer getaways, local elite, beach lovers
The North Coast, known as “Sahel,” is Egypt’s top domestic summer destination. Its crystal-clear Mediterranean waters and white sand beaches rival any in the world. In recent years, upscale developments have redefined the area with modern design and luxury living.
Popular areas include:
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Marassi – Built by Emaar, featuring golf courses, marinas, and international restaurants
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Hacienda Bay / Hacienda White – Known for exclusive parties and premium villas
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Fouka Bay / Mountain View – Family-friendly resorts with amenities and activities
Why Buy Here?
Perfect for Egyptians seeking a second home within driving distance from Cairo. Property value appreciates rapidly here, especially in branded compounds. However, it is mostly a seasonal location, with limited year-round living.
Ain Sokhna – The Closest Beach Escape from Cairo
Location: Just 120 km east of Cairo
Ideal For: Weekend homes, families, retirees
Ain Sokhna is the go-to destination for Cairenes seeking a quick escape. With a short 90-minute drive, it’s ideal for weekend getaways and is increasingly popular among retirees for full-time living due to its mild winters and accessibility.
Key attractions:
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Long sandy beaches and calm waters
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Hot springs and therapeutic spas
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Gated communities like IL Monte Galala, Little Venice, and Porto Sokhna
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Marina access and golf courses
Why Buy Here?
Affordable compared to other resort towns, Ain Sokhna offers a variety of options from budget-friendly chalets to luxury beachfront villas. It’s also one of the few coastal resorts viable for year-round living due to its proximity to Cairo.
Makadi Bay – Affordable Living with Scenic Beauty
Location: 35 km south of Hurghada
Ideal For: Budget-conscious buyers, divers, nature lovers
Makadi Bay is an emerging resort destination offering more affordable property prices than El Gouna or Sahl Hasheesh. Its appeal lies in its natural beauty, coral reefs, and family-friendly hotels.
The resort is developing rapidly, with gated compounds like:
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Makadi Heights by Orascom – A growing community with townhouses and apartments
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Access to diving spots and nature reserves
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Calm atmosphere suited for retirees and families
Why Buy Here?
Makadi Bay is ideal for those seeking a second home without the high price tag. It also offers potential long-term value as the area continues to develop. The cost of maintenance and property taxes are relatively low, making it a practical choice.
Sharm El-Sheikh – Timeless Appeal with Modern Luxury
Location: Southern tip of Sinai Peninsula
Ideal For: Divers, resort living, rental income
Sharm El-Sheikh has long been a global tourist hotspot. With its world-class diving sites, international airport, and a large expat population, it’s still one of the best places for real estate investment on the Red Sea.
Notable areas include:
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Naama Bay – The heart of nightlife and dining
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Nabq Bay – Newer developments and international schools
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Ras Um Sid – Great diving and quiet neighborhoods
Why Buy Here?
Due to ongoing development and government support for tourism, Sharm is seeing a resurgence in real estate interest. Properties range from apartments to luxury villas in resort-style compounds, many with high rental demand.
Tips for Buying a Second Home in Egypt
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Work with a Reputable Developer or Agent: Look for developers with a strong track record and transparent documentation.
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Understand Ownership Laws: Foreigners can buy property in Egypt, but there are restrictions depending on the location and type of property.
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Check Infrastructure and Services: Especially important for more remote areas like the North Coast or Sinai.
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Consider Rental Potential: Some resorts offer property management services that handle short-term rentals.
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Visit Before Buying: A site visit is essential to ensure the property meets your expectations and lifestyle needs.
Final Thoughts
Egypt’s resort towns offer a diverse mix of lifestyles, property types, and investment opportunities. Whether you’re dreaming of a luxurious villa in El Gouna, a cozy beach house in Ain Sokhna, or a Mediterranean-style apartment in the North Coast, there’s something for every taste and budget.
With the country’s increasing focus on tourism, infrastructure development, and foreign investment, buying a second home in Egypt is not just about relaxation—it’s a promising long-term asset.
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes El Gouna one of the best places to buy a second home in Egypt?
El Gouna stands out for its master-planned infrastructure, luxurious amenities, and strong community feel. Developed by Orascom, it offers everything from international schools and a hospital to golf courses and a marina. The town is eco-friendly, walkable, and has strong tourism appeal, making it ideal for both personal use and rental income. Properties range from modern apartments to waterfront villas, and the presence of expats and international visitors ensures stable demand year-round.
Is Sahl Hasheesh a good location for retirees and long-term stays?
Yes, Sahl Hasheesh is perfect for retirees and those seeking a peaceful, upscale lifestyle. It’s quieter than nearby Hurghada and has strict planning regulations to preserve its natural beauty and architectural harmony. With gated compounds, a long beachfront promenade, and limited commercialization, it offers a calm and secure environment. Many homes come with concierge services and private beach access, making long-term living very comfortable.
How does the North Coast (Sahel) differ from other resort destinations in Egypt?
The North Coast, or Sahel, offers a completely different vibe—it’s more Mediterranean than Red Sea. It’s the go-to summer destination for upper-middle-class Egyptians and celebrities. Unlike the year-round appeal of El Gouna or Ain Sokhna, Sahel is mostly seasonal (June to September). However, its high-end developments like Marassi and Hacienda Bay provide world-class amenities such as golf courses, beach clubs, and international retail. For buyers focused on summer use or high-return rentals during peak season, Sahel is a solid choice.
Why is Ain Sokhna considered a practical second home option for Cairenes?
Ain Sokhna is just a 90-minute drive from Cairo, making it extremely accessible for weekend getaways or short breaks. It has grown significantly in recent years, with new resorts and gated communities offering beachfront chalets and villas. It’s also relatively affordable and suitable for year-round living due to its proximity to the capital. The region’s warm winter climate makes it a popular destination for retirees or remote workers seeking a more relaxed pace without sacrificing access to city life.