Egypt’s real estate market has evolved rapidly over the last few years, shifting from traditional city centers to massive, master-planned “smart cities” and luxury coastal resorts. Driven by significant foreign investment—most notably the $35 billion UAE-backed development of Ras El Hekma—the market now offers a mix of high-liquidity urban hubs and high-yield vacation destinations.
Here are the 12 best places to buy property in Egypt for 2026.
1. New Cairo (The Fifth Settlement)
New Cairo remains the gold standard for Egyptian real estate. It is the most liquid market in the country, popular with upper-middle-class families and multinational corporations. The area is home to the American University in Cairo (AUC) and major business hubs like South 90th Street. Investors look here for stable rental yields (6–9%) and high resale demand.
2. New Administrative Capital (NAC)
The NAC is Egypt’s most ambitious project, designed to be a tech-driven smart city and the new seat of government. For 2026, it is the top destination for “giga-project” investment. While still developing, it offers the highest potential for long-term capital appreciation, particularly in the R7 and R8 residential districts and the Iconic Tower business zone.
3. Sheikh Zayed City
Often called the “Beverly Hills of Cairo,” Sheikh Zayed offers an organized, elite suburban lifestyle. It is home to Egypt’s two largest malls (Mall of Egypt and Mall of Arabia) and top-tier international schools. Property values here have seen recent surges of nearly 25%, making it a prime spot for luxury villas and upscale compounds.
4. Ras El Hekma (The New Mediterranean)
Following a massive $35 billion investment deal with the UAE, Ras El Hekma is the “hottest” upcoming location in Egypt. It is being transformed from a seasonal summer spot into a year-round international destination with turquoise waters that rival the Maldives. Early-stage investors are targeting this area for massive future returns as infrastructure completes.
5. El Gouna
Developed by Orascom, El Gouna is a fully self-sufficient, gated resort town on the Red Sea. It is the “Expat’s Choice,” known for its lagoons, sustainable lifestyle, and Abu Tig Marina. It offers a unique micro-economy that is often insulated from broader economic fluctuations, boasting occupancy rates above 70%.
6. 6th of October City
Known as the “Value King,” this area west of Cairo offers more square footage for your money. It is an established industrial and educational hub, making it ideal for entry-level investments or student housing. Major projects like O West and Palm Hills offer long-term payment plans that are very attractive to first-time buyers.
7. The North Coast (Sahel)
Stretching toward Marsa Matruh, “Sahel” is the playground for Egypt’s elite. While traditionally a two-month summer market, the development of New Alamein City is turning it into a year-round coastal hub. Branded residences by developers like Emaar Misr (Marassi) and Sodic are the high-ticket items here.
8. Hurghada
Hurghada remains the most accessible entry point for international buyers on the Red Sea. It offers “freehold” ownership rights and a strong rental market driven by year-round European tourism. Locations like Makadi Bay and the Intercontinental District are popular for affordable apartments with high rental turnover.
9. Sahl Hasheesh
Located just south of Hurghada, Sahl Hasheesh is a premium, master-planned beach community. It is more exclusive than Hurghada, featuring a 12km bay and a beautiful promenade. It targets the luxury vacation rental market, with properties often commanding $100–$200 per night on short-term platforms.
10. Ain Sokhna
The closest beach destination to Cairo (just a 60-90 minute drive), Ain Sokhna is the primary “second home” market for Cairenes. With new massive developments like Il Monte Galala, it is evolving into a sophisticated year-round resort. Its proximity to the New Administrative Capital is expected to drive significant price growth.
11. Zamalek
For those who prefer the heart of the city, Zamalek is an island in the Nile and remains Cairo’s most prestigious historic neighborhood. Due to extreme supply scarcity, property values never depreciate. It is the preferred location for diplomats and NGOs, ensuring a steady, high-priced rental market in the “Old Cairo” style.
12. Maadi (Sarayat El Maadi)
Maadi is the greenest suburb of Cairo and has been an expat favorite for decades. The “Sarayat” area, characterized by its leafy streets and large villas, offers a quieter, walkable alternative to the desert compounds. It provides some of the most stable long-term rental income in the country.
