Egypt's North Coast: Where to go on the Mediterranean and what's coming next

Egypt's North Coast, stretching from the Mediterranean to the Libyan border, is emerging as a premier holiday destination. Minister of Tourism and Antiquities Sherif Fathy is optimistic about its potential, stating that this coast will become the Mediterranean's summer hotspot in the coming decades.

Tourism has been growing steadily, with 14.4 million international visitors expected by the end of September 2026, potentially reaching 20 million by year-end. Cairo, Egypt's capital, is the main entry point, welcoming around four million visitors to the Grand Egyptian Museum, which opened in November 2025. The coastline west of Alexandria, known as the Sahel, is also gaining attention.

El Alamein, a coastal town 250km from Cairo, has seen a surge in charter flights, growing by 540% last year and another 50% this summer. The area is being developed with luxurious properties, beach clubs, and nightlife venues. UAE travelers are expected to be attracted to the region, with many families booking the same hotels year after year.

Ras El Hekma, a project funded by Emirati investment, is set to become a major addition to the coast. The first district, Wadi Yemm, will feature a lighthouse, an amphitheater with 10,000 seats, a Montage hotel with 200 rooms and suites, and branded villas. Completion is scheduled for 2028, making it a future destination to watch.

While the North Coast is known for its "sun and fun," it can also be combined with ecotourism in the nearby Siwa Oasis, an hour's drive from the coast. Siwa is an ecotourism destination, offering desert landscapes and cultural experiences.