Launches North Bay, a new neighbourhood with family homes designed by LEGORRETA on an open lagoon

Unveils Remal El Gouna Glamp, an innovative, luxury glamping experience in the Red Sea

London, 3rd October 2023: Situated along the stunning Egyptian coastline of the azure Red Sea, El Gouna has been celebrated for over three decades by residents and visitors from around the world for its laid-back, luxurious seaside lifestyle. Developed by Swiss-based Orascom Development, a leading international developer of vibrant, integrated communities in Europe, the Middle East and North Africa, El Gouna is a vibrant Egyptian coastal town that spans an impressive 36.9 million square metres. Today, El Gouna announced a new neighbourhood, North Bay, and exclusive glamping accommodation, Remal El Gouna Glamp, which will further enhance this coastal haven's allure for UK residents and visitors.

El Gouna epitomises an aspirational, multicultural lifestyle known as the “El Gouna State of Mind”. Drawing individuals from more than 50 countries, 45% of property owners are not Egyptian citizens, mainly Europeans, and nearly one-quarter (23%) of them are British nationals. Founded in 1999, El Gouna is a safe, idyllic town with 9,200 residential units and 18 world-class hotels along 12 kilometres of shoreline. A variety of sought-after amenities including restaurants, international schools, a hospital, banks, workspaces, marinas, two award-winning golf courses, and a spacious culture and conference centre, also sit within this beautiful, gated community.

Mohamed Amer, CEO of El Gouna, commented: “El Gouna has long been redefining luxury living and leisure experiences in an understated, sustainable fashion that makes it an ideal destination for our diverse blend of international residents and visitors. With favourable exchange rates for Brits and direct flights to nearby Hurghada International Airport, El Gouna is a competitive option for both real estate and hospitality with year-round sunshine and more benefits when compared to similar European destinations. We understand the intrinsic value of our stunning natural surroundings, and our new initiatives, North Bay and Remal El Gouna Glamp, are seamlessly woven into the tapestry of El Gouna's awe-inspiring beauty.”

Stuart Leven, CEO of Orascom Hotels Management, said: “We have seen growing demand from the UK, with a 50% increase in guests visiting El Gouna from Great Britain alone in the first half of 2023, underscoring our commitment to provide an unmatched experience to every guest staying at our hotels. Whether they are looking for a couple's paradise, a family getaway, or a true adventure, we have curated experiences for every individual.”

El Gouna's Latest Residential Real Estate Project – North Bay

El Gouna's residential real estate market is thriving. From apartments to standalone villas in 42 neighbourhoods set amidst lagoons, golf courses and other desirable locales, El Gouna has a home for every taste.

El Gouna launches North Bay*, its newest neighbourhood designed in collaboration with LEGORRETA, the international architectural firm known for its human-centric and nature-inspired designs. North Bay encompasses 140 homes ranging between single and double storey stand-alone villas and twin villas, will offer serene living. The beautiful neighbourhood boasts iconic architecture and community amenities, which create an unparalleled living experience overlooking an open lagoon uniquely connected to the sea. The project also benefits from the expertise of EDSA, an award-winning planning and landscape firm that upholds an environmentally based approach to design.

Amer commented: “Our aim has always been crafting neighbourhoods that are focused on serenity and quality of life whilst thoughtfully integrated with its natural environment. With a booming tourism industry and exceptional property management services, El Gouna is highly sought after for property purchase and rentals, delivering attractive hassle-free yields for investors.”

A Sneak Peek at El Gouna's Next Hotel – Remal El Gouna Glamp

El Gouna boasts 18 hotels that cater to various tastes, ranging from lavish five-star resorts to intimate boutique hotels, all offering beautiful, comfortable rooms and adhering to the highest international quality standards and environmental regulations.

The newest addition, planned for Summer 2024, is Remal El Gouna Glamp (which means Sands of El Gouna Glamp in Arabic). Situated amidst a backdrop of mountains and sea views, it is set to redefine the way guests connect with nature and indulge in relaxation. The luxurious accommodation will offer in-room facilities with ultra-comfort at the forefront, including skylights for stargazing, Jacuzzis and BBQ areas. The eco-friendly architecture and design alongside glamping activities will cater to both laid-back and adrenaline-seeking travellers.

Leven commented: “With the rise of glamping as a pioneering concept that fits within the eco-tourism trend, we are thrilled to unveil Remal El Gouna Glamp as the first glamping experience in El Gouna. This newest addition to Orascom Development's hotel portfolio complements El Gouna's expansive selection of hotels and activities, inviting guests to indulge in a luxurious retreat amidst serene natural surroundings."

A Vibrant Destination

El Gouna's calendar of events caters to a wide range of interests and passions, making it a dynamic and captivating destination for all. Whether you're a film enthusiast, sports aficionado, or simply looking to soak up the vibrant atmosphere, there is always something to do.

The glamorous El Gouna Film Festival, which showcases international and Egyptian cinema, kicks off its sixth edition next week. The line-up features Martin Scorsese's new film, "Killers of the Flower Moon". For those seeking an active lifestyle, the town holds a myriad of sports activities and events including its own Egyptian Premier League football club and the Water Sports Festival offering opportunities to compete and enjoy the natural surroundings. El Gouna's amenities add to the thriving town and set it apart, making it a destination for international travellers and homeowners year-round.

*Avg. price between USD 1,409,000 and USD 966,000.

-ENDS-

For media enquiries please contact Holly Moore or Laura Westmacott at Mercury Communications: elgouna@mercurycomms.com

About El Gouna
El Gouna, one of Orascom Development's fully integrated towns, has been the most prominent destination nestled on the Red Sea in an area of 36.9 million square metres for more than 30 years. The town encompasses 9,200 delivered residential units, 18 hotels proving 2,800 rooms, schools offering various international curricula, including Swiss and British certifications, an international hospital, start-up workspace facility, four marinas, two world-class golf courses, an Egyptian Premier League football club, a culture & conference centre, and an array of services.

Each of El Gouna's hotels is characterised by unique architectural charm. From the Upper Nubian flair of Steigenberger to the Asian-inspired design of The Chedi, which is part of The Leading Hotels of the World portfolio, and Casa Cook's down-to-earth yet stylish aesthetic, there's a hotel for every taste. The interior design across these hotels is sleek and understated, prioritising maximum comfort. Dining in El Gouna is a culinary delight, with impeccable options featuring flavours from locally sourced ingredients, including supplies from El Gouna's own farm. The town also offers a curated selection of spas, blending oriental and far eastern treatments for a holistic relaxation experience.

With a population of more than 25,000 residents of 50+ nationalities, El Gouna is only 30 minutes from Hurghada International Airport, which has direct flights to the UK (5 hours) and many European cities (4 hours).

About Orascom Development Holding

Orascom Development Holding is a leading international developer specialising in vibrant, integrated communities in Europe, the Middle East, and North Africa. For more than 30 years, Orascom Development has been a pioneer in creating destinations where people are inspired to live, work, and play with passion and purpose.

From El Gouna's stunning Egyptian coastal town by the Red Sea to Andermatt Swiss Alps' breath-taking, year-round mountain destination, each master-planned community is a testament to Orascom Development's commitment to place-making at its finest. The integrated towns harmoniously combine residential areas with private villas and apartments, hotels, and award-winning leisure and commercial amenities – including golf courses, marinas, sports facilities, retail shops and restaurants.
Orascom Development owns a land bank of more than 100 million square meters with nearly 40% under development or developed into thriving communities in Egypt (El Gouna, Makadi Heights, O West, Taba Heights, and Byoum), in the GCC (The Cove in the UAE and Jebel Sifah and Hawana Salalah in Oman), and in Europe (Andermatt Swiss Alps in Switzerland, Luštica Bay in Montenegro and West Carclaze Garden Village in the UK).

Orascom Development's hospitality portfolio includes 33 premium and luxury hotels with more than 7,000 rooms across Europe, the Middle East, and North Africa.

ODH shares are listed on the SIX Swiss Exchange.

Notes to Editors / Additional Background:

El Gouna Plus

El Gouna Plus is a fully-fledged property management offering, which appeals to international homeowners looking for turnkey solutions and peace of mind. The platform offers Design & Renovation, Property Management and Home Services. With a dedicated account manager assigned to each homeowner, the centralised one-stop-shop provides homeowners with peace of mind for all El Gouna living needs.

A Global Green Town

Boasting green credentials, El Gouna was the first city in the Middle East to receive the “Global Green Town” award for its initiatives towards preserving the environment since 2014, with the support of the United Nations Environmental Program, and all of the town's hotels are holders of the Green Star certification from the Ministry of Tourism and Antiquities and the Chamber of Tourism. El Gouna's own solar plant currently provides 16% of the town's energy needs, producing 14 GWh annually. 2024 will see the currently 245m2 solar plant capacity doubled.