Living in Hurghada: the ultimate expat guide

Employment in Hurghada is heavily concentrated in the tourism and hospitality sector, which drives the local economy. While opportunities exist, foreign nationals must navigate Egypt's work permit requirements and understand that the job market differs significantly from Western countries.

Key Industries and Opportunities

The dominant employers are hotels, resorts, and dive centers that line the Red Sea coast. International hotel chains like Hilton, Steigenberger, and Marriott operate multiple properties and occasionally recruit foreign staff for management and specialized positions. Real estate has also grown substantially, with agencies seeking multilingual sales professionals to serve European buyers. Other sectors include water sports instruction, particularly diving and kitesurfing, as well as healthcare in private clinics catering to tourists and expats.

Work Permits and Regulations

Egypt requires foreign workers to obtain a work permit from the Ministry of Manpower. The process typically takes 1-3 months and requires employer sponsorship. Egyptian law limits foreign workers to no more than 10% of a company's workforce and 20% of total payroll. Work permits are generally valid for one year and renewable for up to three years. An HIV test is mandatory for all applicants.

The following table provides key employment indicators for the Hurghada and Red Sea region:

Sources: CAPMAS Egypt, Paylab Salary Survey 2024

While Hurghada is primarily known as a resort destination rather than an academic hub, higher education options do exist for residents. The city hosts a campus of a major Egyptian university and is within reach of other institutions for those willing to commute or study online.

South Valley University – Hurghada Campus

South Valley University (SVU) operates a campus in Hurghada, hosting the Faculty of Education. Established in 1995, SVU is one of Egypt's more modern higher education institutions with 16 faculties spread across campuses in Qena, Luxor, and Hurghada. The university is recognized by the Egyptian Ministry of Higher Education and offers programs primarily in Arabic. Tuition fees are low for both domestic and international students, typically ranging from USD 1,500-3,000 per year for international students depending on the program.

Nearby University Options

For more diverse academic offerings, students often consider institutions in Cairo, accessible via a one-hour flight or 5-hour drive. Notable options include the American University in Cairo (AUC), offering American-accredited programs, and Cairo University, one of the largest universities in the Arab world. Galala University, a newer institution located above the Red Sea, offers dual degree programs with Arizona State University and is approximately 3 hours north of Hurghada.

Online and Distance Learning

Many expats in Hurghada pursue higher education through online degree programs from international universities. The city's reliable internet infrastructure and low cost of living make it an attractive base for remote students seeking internationally recognized qualifications.

Sources: South Valley University

Hurghada has emerged as a popular retirement destination, particularly for Europeans seeking affordable warm-weather living with access to quality healthcare. The combination of low costs, established expat communities, and year-round sunshine makes it an attractive option for pensioners.

Why Retirees Choose Hurghada

The primary draw is affordability. A comfortable retirement in Hurghada is possible on USD 1,000-1,500 per month, including rent, healthcare, and leisure activities. This stretches pension income significantly further than in Western Europe or North America. The warm, dry climate benefits those with arthritis or respiratory conditions, while the relaxed lifestyle promotes wellbeing.

Healthcare for Retirees

Private healthcare in Hurghada meets good standards, with El Gouna Hospital offering international-level services. Many doctors are trained in Europe or the United States and speak English. Comprehensive private health insurance for retirees costs approximately USD 500-1,000 per year – a fraction of Western premiums. Routine medical consultations and prescriptions are also significantly cheaper than in home countries.

Visa and Residency

Egypt does not offer a specific retirement visa, but retirees can obtain renewable residence permits valid for up to 5 years. Requirements include proof of income or property ownership. After 10 years of continuous residence, expats may apply for Egyptian citizenship. Tourist visas, renewable every 30 days, are commonly used by seasonal residents who spend winter months in Hurghada.

The established expat community provides social networks through clubs, activities, and informal gatherings, helping newcomers integrate and find companionship.

Sources: Allianz Care Expat Guide, Egyptian Ministry of Interior

Hurghada offers a growing selection of international schools catering to the expat community. While options are more limited than in Cairo, families can find schools following British, American, and German curricula that provide quality education through secondary level.

International School Options

El Gouna International School (EGIS) is the most established option, located 25 km north of central Hurghada in the exclusive El Gouna resort town. The school follows the British National Curriculum leading to IGCSEs and A-Levels, and is accredited by the Ministry of Education and a member of British Schools in the Middle East (BSME). It also operates as an approved center for Cambridge and Edexcel examinations.

Deutsche Schule Hurghada (German School) offers the German curriculum with the GIB (German International Baccalaureate) as the secondary leaving qualification. Instruction is bilingual in German and Arabic, with English as a third language.

Other notable schools include New Sunrise International School (British curriculum, operating since 2007), MES International School Hurghada, and Continental School of Hurghada (British National Curriculum through A-Levels).

Enrollment and Fees

International school fees in Hurghada are considerably lower than in Western countries but represent a significant expense locally. Annual tuition typically ranges from USD 3,000-8,000 depending on the school and grade level. El Gouna International School sits at the higher end due to its facilities and accreditations. Most schools require enrollment documents including previous school records, passport copies, and health certificates.

Sources: El Gouna International School, Sunrise International School

Hurghada's property market offers exceptional value, with rental and purchase prices significantly below those in Western countries. The city spans diverse neighborhoods, from luxury gated communities to traditional Egyptian districts, each with distinct character and price points.

Expat-Friendly Areas

El Gouna, located 25 km north, is often called the "Venice of the Red Sea." This purpose-built resort town features lagoons, marinas, and European-standard infrastructure. It attracts affluent expats seeking a self-contained community with international restaurants, private hospitals, and premium amenities. Property prices and rents here are Hurghada's highest.

Sahl Hasheesh, 18 km south of the airport, is an exclusive gated development with 5-star resorts, a marina, and pristine beaches. Popular with retirees and investors, it offers tranquility and security with premium finishes.

El Kawther and El Mamsha are central areas popular with long-term expats. El Mamsha features a pedestrian promenade lined with restaurants and shops, while El Kawther is considered the most European-feeling district in Hurghada proper.

Al Ahyaa, north of central Hurghada, offers more affordable options in newer developments with growing infrastructure and proximity to international schools.

Rental Prices (2025)

The following table shows typical monthly rental costs in Hurghada:

Sources: Numbeo, Local real estate agencies 2025

Hurghada's leisure offerings center on its spectacular marine environment, but the city also provides cultural experiences, nightlife, and day-trip opportunities that keep residents engaged year-round.

Water Sports and Diving

The Red Sea is Hurghada's greatest asset. With over 200 dive centers, the city ranks among the world's premier diving destinations. Famous sites include Abu Ramada, Giftun Reef, El Fanadir, and the shipwrecks at Abu Nuhas. PADI certification courses are available in multiple languages at competitive prices. For non-divers, snorkeling trips to Giftun Islands, kitesurfing at Mangroovy Beach in El Gouna, and glass-bottom boat excursions offer marine encounters.

Desert and Cultural Excursions

Desert safaris by quad bike or jeep explore the Eastern Desert, often including Bedouin camp dinners with traditional entertainment. Day trips to Luxor (4 hours) access the Valley of the Kings and Karnak Temple, while Cairo and the Pyramids are reachable by 5-hour drive or 1-hour flight.

Local Attractions and Nightlife

The Hurghada Marina Boulevard offers waterfront dining, boutiques, and yacht watching. Hurghada Grand Aquarium showcases Red Sea marine life, while Sand City features impressive sand sculptures. For evening entertainment, the El Sekala (Sheraton Road) district and Marina area host restaurants, cafes, and bars. Beach clubs like Papas Beach Club offer day-to-night entertainment with pools and music.

Sports and Recreation

Golf enthusiasts can play at courses in El Gouna and Soma Bay. Fitness clubs, spas, and wellness centers are available in major resorts and compounds. The annual El Gouna Film Festival brings international cinema to the Red Sea coast.

Daily life in Hurghada revolves around the sea, sunshine, and a relaxed pace that attracts expats seeking escape from busier urban environments. The city offers a comfortable lifestyle with modern conveniences, though some cultural adjustments are necessary.

Getting Around

Hurghada lacks a formal public transportation system. Locals and expats rely on taxis, minibuses (microbuses), and private vehicles. White minibuses operate along main routes for approximately 5-10 EGP per ride (under USD 0.25), though they can be crowded and follow informal schedules. Taxis are plentiful and affordable – a ride within central Hurghada typically costs 50-100 EGP (USD 1-2). Ride-hailing apps Uber and Careem operate in the main city area. Many expats purchase or rent cars; fuel prices remain subsidized and significantly lower than in Europe.

Climate and Lifestyle

Hurghada enjoys over 360 sunny days annually. Summers (June-September) are hot, with temperatures reaching 35-40°C (95-104°F), while winters remain mild at 20-25°C (68-77°F). Air conditioning is essential during summer months. The lifestyle is outdoor-oriented, with beach clubs, diving trips, and desert excursions as common weekend activities.

Shopping and Services

Supermarkets stocking international products are available, though imported goods carry premium prices. Local markets offer fresh produce at low costs. The Senzo Mall and Hurghada Marina provide shopping and dining options. Banking services include international ATMs, and English is widely spoken in tourist and expat areas, though learning basic Arabic phrases helps in daily interactions.

Hurghada ranks among the most affordable destinations globally, with living costs approximately 60% lower than the United States and significantly below European averages. This affordability is a primary draw for retirees, remote workers, and expats on fixed incomes.

Monthly Budget: Single Person

The following table outlines typical monthly expenses for a single person living comfortably in Hurghada:

Monthly Budget: Family of Four

Sources: Numbeo 2025, LivingCost.org