Freehold Property in Hurghada for Foreigners — Complete Guide
Many buyers ask whether foreigners can truly own freehold property in Hurghada. The answer is yes — and the legal framework is stronger than most people realise. Here is everything you need to know about your ownership rights as a foreign buyer.
Egypt's Property Law for Foreigners
Under Egyptian Law No. 230 of 1996 and subsequent amendments, non-Egyptians are permitted to own property in designated zones including all Red Sea resort areas. You receive a full Title Deed (Tabu) registered in your name with the Egyptian Real Estate Registration Authority. This gives you the same ownership rights as an Egyptian citizen — including the right to use, rent, sell, gift, or inherit the property.
Freehold vs Leasehold — What Hurghada Buyers Get
Hurghada is freehold — you own the property AND the land beneath it outright. This is fundamentally different from Sharm el Sheikh where foreigners purchase on a long-term leasehold basis. Freehold ownership in Hurghada is also different from UAE freehold zones (which are limited to specific areas) — in Hurghada the entire Red Sea coast is available to foreign buyers.
The Title Deed (Tabu) Process
Your Title Deed is registered with the Egyptian Real Estate Registry. The registration process typically takes 4–12 weeks after full payment. Some new-build developers handle registration on your behalf as part of the purchase. For off-plan properties, the deed is issued on completion of the building. Always ensure registration is included in your contract.
Can I Rent Out My Freehold Property?
Yes — there are no restrictions on renting out your property, whether short-term to tourists or long-term to residents. Rental income can be freely transferred out of Egypt. There are no local restrictions on platforms like Airbnb or Booking.com.
Can I Sell My Property?
Yes — you can sell at any time with no restrictions. There are no minimum holding periods. If you sell during an active payment plan, the outstanding balance is typically handled through the contract transfer — your lawyer will guide you through the specific process.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Hurghada freehold or leasehold for foreigners?+
Do I receive a Title Deed in my name?+
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