Investing in Hurghada.. El Mahary vs. Magawish, Hurghada’s real estate market offers diverse living options, with El Mahary and Magawish standing out as top residential areas. This comprehensive 2,000+ word guide compares these neighborhoods across three critical factors:
- Quality of Life (amenities, convenience, atmosphere)
- Investment Potential (property prices, rental yields)
- Long-Term Outlook (development projects, appreciation)
Perfect for investors, expats, and families considering Hurghada property, this analysis provides data-driven insights to inform your decision.
Quality of Life Face-Off
El Mahary (Schools District) – Urban Convenience
Location: Central Hurghada, near Sheraton Road and Marina
Key Advantages:
- Education Hub: Home to top international schools (British School of Hurghada, German School)
- Medical Facilities: SEGA Hospital (500m), Cleopatra Medical Center
- Shopping & Dining: Senzo Mall (1km), Marina Boulevard (2km)
- Transport Links: 15 minutes to Hurghada International Airport
- Community: Mix of Egyptian families and European expats
Drawbacks:
- Higher population density
- Traffic congestion during peak seasons
- Limited beach access (nearest public beach 3km)
Magawish – Coastal Serenity
Location: Northern Hurghada coastline, near Sahl Hasheesh
Key Advantages:
- Beachfront Living: Private beach access for residents
- Resort-Style Amenities: 5-star hotels (Steigenberger, Baron Palace)
- Marine Activities: Premier diving/snorkeling spots (Giftun Islands 30min by boat)
- Tranquility: Lower noise levels, spacious properties
- Exclusive Community: Higher percentage of European/Russian residents
Drawbacks:
- Limited schools/medical facilities (requires trips to central Hurghada)
- Fewer shopping options (nearest mall 20min drive)
- Dependence on private transportation
Lifestyle Verdict:
- Choose El Mahary for urban convenience and family-friendly infrastructure
- Opt for Magawish for resort-style living and premium beach access
Investment Potential Breakdown
El Mahary Market Analysis
Property Prices (2024):
Property Type | Price Range (EGP) | Price Range (USD) |
---|---|---|
1-Bed Apartment | 1.2M – 2.5M | $40K – $85K |
3-Bed Apartment | 3M – 5M | $100K – $170K |
Villa | 8M – 20M+ | $270K – $670K+ |
Rental Performance:
- Long-Term Rentals:
- 1-bed: EGP 8K-15K/month ($270-$500)
- 3-bed: EGP 15K-30K/month ($500-$1,000)
- Short-Term Rentals: Limited due to residential zoning
Occupancy Rates: 85-90% year-round
Target Tenants: Expat families, school teachers, medical professionals
Magawish Market Analysis
Property Prices (2024):
Property Type | Price Range (EGP) | Price Range (USD) |
---|---|---|
1-Bed Apartment | 2M – 4M | $67K – $135K |
3-Bed Apartment | 5M – 10M | $170K – $335K |
Villa | 12M – 40M+ | $400K – $1.3M+ |
Rental Performance:
- Long-Term Premium:
- 1-bed: EGP 12K-25K/month ($400-$835)
- 3-bed: EGP 25K-60K/month ($835-$2,000)
- Short-Term Potential: EGP 80K-200K/month in peak season
Occupancy Rates: 70% (year-round), 95% (December-April)
Target Tenants: Seasonal tourists, remote workers, luxury seekers
Investment Verdict:
- El Mahary offers stable 6-8% annual ROI with lower risk
- Magawish delivers 10-15% potential returns but higher volatility
Future Growth Projections
El Mahary Development Pipeline
- 2025 Road Expansion Project: EGP 500M investment to ease congestion
- New International School Campus: Opening 2026 (German curriculum)
- Mixed-Use Complex: Planned near Senzo Mall (retail/residential)
Appreciation Potential: 5-7% annually (conservative estimate)
Magawish Development Pipeline
- Sahl Hasheesh Extension: $300M marina development
- New Luxury Resort: 120-villa project by DAMAC Properties
- Beachfront Promenade: 3km walking/cycling path
Appreciation Potential: 8-12% annually (higher risk/reward)
Growth Verdict:
- El Mahary: Steady, reliable appreciation
- Magawish: Higher upside but dependent on tourism recovery
Infrastructure & Transportation: Connectivity Compared
El Mahary (Schools District)
Road Networks:
- Direct access to Sheraton Road (Hurghada’s main artery)
- Well-maintained internal roads with regular municipal upkeep
- Currently undergoing EGP 300M widening project (completion Q2 2025)
Public Transport:
- Microbus routes every 10-15 minutes to:
- Downtown (5-10 mins)
- Airport (15 mins)
- Marina (8 mins)
- Average taxi fare: EGP 30-50 within district
Utilities:
- 100% electricity coverage (upgraded substations in 2023)
- Fiber optic internet available (Vodafone/Orange)
- Scheduled water delivery (tankers supplement pipeline system)
Magawish
Road Networks:
- Coastal Road access (scenic but single-lane sections)
- Private community roads maintained by developers
- Planned tunnel under Sahl Hasheesh Road (2026)
Public Transport:
- Limited microbuses (30-45 min intervals)
- Reliance on:
- Hotel shuttles
- Private taxis (average EGP 80-120 to downtown)
- Ride-hailing (Uber/Careem available)
Utilities:
- Solar energy integration in upscale compounds
- Seawater desalination plants serving gated communities
- Satellite internet preferred (Starlink adoption rising)
Key Differences Table:
Infrastructure Aspect | El Mahary | Magawish |
---|---|---|
Road Quality | 8/10 | 6/10 |
Public Transport | 9/10 | 4/10 |
Utility Reliability | 7/10 | 8/10 |
Future Projects | Road expansions | Marine access improvements |
Pro Tip: Investors should note that Magawish’s infrastructure costs are typically 15-20% higher due to:
Desalination plant contributions
Conclusion: Which Neighborhood Wins?
Beachfront maintenance fees
Private security requirements
Factor | El Mahary | Magawish |
---|---|---|
Lifestyle | 9/10 (Urban) | 8/10 (Resort) |
Rental Income | 7/10 (Stable) | 9/10 (Premium) |
Price Growth | 7/10 (5-7%) | 9/10 (8-12%) |
Liquidity | 8/10 (Quick sale) | 6/10 (Niche market) |
Final Recommendations:
- Best for Families: El Mahary (schools, healthcare, stability)
- Best for Investors: Magawish (higher yields, luxury market)
- Best Hybrid Option: Properties near the border of both areas
Ready to invest in Hurghada? contact Forsa For Real Estate Survices for personalized property recommendations in both neighborhoods.