Look honestly I know it sounds a little crazy at first right? But seriously just last month I was talking to this client from Germany who grabbed a decent 1BR in Sahl Hasheesh for about 70 grand. Threw it straight on Airbnb and bam the bookings are already covering his whole installment and theres still a little extra left over every month. And you know what? Thats happening more and more in Hurghada lately. Tourism is going absolutely nuts again in 2025–2026 nightly rates are hitting 60 to 150 bucks in the good spots and were genuinely seeing 8–11%+ returns if you manage it right. The thing is though prices are creeping up fast some areas already jumped 15–20% this year alone. If youre sitting there thinking about getting in before it gets way more expensive then yeah this is the moment. So what do you think ready to see how the real numbers play out for you?
Why Short-Term Rentals in Hurghada Are Exploding Right Now
Man if you haven’t taken a serious look at Hurghada lately you’re missing one of the most exciting shifts happening in the vacation rental game right now. Tourism here is going completely wild Egypt smashed records with over 15 million visitors in the first ten months of 2025 alone and the Red Sea coast especially Hurghada is carrying the whole wave. International arrivals jumped 23–24% year-on-year hotels averaging 80%+ full and peak weeks where places are basically sold out. The Ministry of Tourism is already projecting 17.76 million total visitors by the end of 2025 climbing to around 18.56 million in 2026. That’s not just talk that’s planes landing people walking off with suitcases and every single one needing a bed.
And here’s the real game-changer: short-term rentals in Hurghada are eating hotels’ lunch. Why pay top dollar for a resort room with zero privacy and a tiny mini-bar when you can book a full sea-view apartment or cozy studio on Airbnb for way less with a proper kitchen living space and that home-away-from-home feeling? Guests love it. Hosts love it even more. Airbtics and AirDNA data shows Hurghada now has 3,100–3,135 active listings with median annual occupancy around 48% (roughly 175 nights booked per year on average). That might sound a bit low at first but dig in: during peak months like April and October well-managed properties are hitting 70–75%+ easily and over 72% of bookings come from international guests who stay longer and spend more. That’s not random that’s a machine printing money if you run it right.
The thing is though… this wave isn’t slowing down anytime soon. New direct flights are opening up the airport got another upgrade and Egypt is pushing hard for more winter escapes and eco-tourism along the Red Sea. 2026 is already shaping up to be even stronger. If you’re thinking about buying a vacation rental or investment apartment here right now is still the sweet spot before the next round of price increases hits hard. short-term rentals in Hurghada aren’t just growing… they’re exploding. And the best part? The opportunity is still wide open for anyone who moves quickly.
Want to see exactly where the real money is being made and which areas are still giving the highest returns? Let’s jump into the nightly rates and neighborhood breakdown next. (And if you’re already thinking “I want in” we have some killer Airbnb-ready listings waiting for you at The Horizon Real Estate. More on that soon.)
Record Tourism Numbers Driving Demand in 2025–2026
Let’s be real for a second the single biggest rocket fuel behind the explosion in short-term rentals in Hurghada right now is the insane number of people pouring into Egypt. In just the first ten months of 2025 the country already hit over 15 million international visitors that’s a number most people didn’t think we’d see so soon. And guess what’s carrying almost all of that growth? The Red Sea coast with Hurghada right at the front of the pack. Hotels are running at 80%+ average occupancy and during peak weeks (think Christmas New Year spring break) many resorts are completely sold out not a single empty bed.
The official numbers back it up hard. The Ministry of Tourism is now forecasting 17.76 million total visitors by the end of 2025 and early estimates for 2026 are already sitting at 18.56 million. That’s roughly 4–5% growth year-on-year but the Red Sea governorates are growing faster than the national average. Hurghada Airport alone handled 53,000 passengers in one single day back in October 2025 that kind of traffic means demand for beds is constant and short-term rentals are the flexible cheaper more private option most tourists are choosing over big resorts.
The best part? This isn’t a short-lived spike. New direct flights from Europe and the Gulf are landing almost every week now visa-on-arrival rules keep getting easier and Egypt is doubling down on winter escapes diving tourism and eco-friendly Red Sea packages. All of that adds up to more bookings higher occupancy and stronger nightly rates for anyone who gets in early. So if you’re even thinking about buying a vacation property or investment apartment in Hurghada the demand side of the story is screaming opportunity. The question isn’t whether tourists will keep coming they’re already here in record numbers. The real question is: are you going to grab one of the last good units before prices climb even higher in 2026?
(We’ve got several Airbnb-optimized apartments in the hottest zones ready right now if you want to see what’s available with proven booking potential just check our current listings at The Horizon Real Estate.)
Record Tourism Numbers Driving Demand in 2025–2026
The chart below shows monthly tourist arrivals to Hurghada in thousands. 2025 figures are actuals, while 2026 shows projected growth (8–10% increase). Strong winter/spring peaks drive rental demand and higher occupancy rates.
Source: Inspired by WTTC Egypt reports & AirDNA Hurghada data | Projections based on current trends
How Short-Term Rentals Beat Hotels in Hurghada
Look let’s cut through the noise: short-term rentals in Hurghada are winning guests away from hotels at a crazy pace right now and the reasons are dead simple when you break it down.
First off price. Tourists aren’t stupid why pay €120–180 per night for a standard hotel room (often with zero kitchen and tiny space) when you can get a full one-bedroom apartment or even a sea-view studio on Airbnb for €50–100? That’s not just cheaper it’s often half the cost for double the space a real kitchen living area and privacy. Families especially love it: cook breakfast for the kids do laundry come back late without “quiet hours” nonsense. Hotels simply can’t compete on value like that.
Second location and variety. Hotels are locked into big resort compounds beautiful sure but far from downtown vibes or local spots. short-term rentals let you stay right in the heart of things: El Gouna for upscale marina life Sahl Hasheesh for luxury beach access or even central Hurghada for walking-distance restaurants and markets. Guests get the “live like a local” feel while still having resort-level pools and views in many listings. Hotels can’t match that flexibility.
Third amenities guests actually want. Modern Airbnb apartments in Hurghada come loaded: fast Wi-Fi (essential for remote workers) Netflix washing machines full kitchens extra bedrooms for kids or friends. Hotels often charge extra for Wi-Fi have limited TV options and no laundry unless you pay a fortune. The homey touches win people feel like they’re on vacation not in a hotel box.
And finally the emotional side. Hotels can feel impersonal check-in lines fixed meal times staff everywhere. short-term rentals give that “my place in Hurghada” vibe. Guests leave reviews saying things like “felt like home” or “perfect for our family escape”. That emotional connection keeps bookings coming and reviews sky-high.
Bottom line: hotels still have their place for all-inclusive luxury seekers but for most tourists families couples digital nomads groups short-term rentals in Hurghada are simply a better deal in 2025–2026. More space lower cost better location real home comforts. No wonder occupancy is climbing and hotels are feeling the heat.
(And if you’re thinking about owning one of these high-demand rentals we have several Airbnb-ready apartments in the top areas right now sea views strong projected returns and easy management options. Check what’s available at The Horizon Real Estate and see if one fits your goals.)
Current Airbnb Market Stats & Revenue in Hurghada (2025–2026 Data)
Let’s get straight to the numbers because the Hurghada short-term rental market isn’t just hot on paper; the data shows it’s delivering real cash flow for owners right now.
According to the latest AirDNA and Airbtics reports (pulled fresh for late 2025) Hurghada currently has 3,100–3,135 active Airbnb-style listings that’s a healthy supply but demand is still outpacing it in peak months. Median annual occupancy sits at 48% across the board (about 175 nights booked per year on average). That might sound modest if you’re comparing to full-time city rentals but here’s where it gets interesting: top-performing properties in premium areas are regularly hitting 70–75%+ during high season (October–April) and some well-managed listings push even higher with good photos fast responses and Superhost status.
| Metric | Value (2025 Median) | Peak Season (Oct–Apr) Impact | Notes / 2026 Trend Projection |
|---|---|---|---|
| Active Listings | 3,100–3,135 | High demand outpaces supply | Expected to grow slightly |
| Annual Occupancy Rate | 48% | 70–75%+ (top 80%+) | Projected 50–55% median in 2026 |
| Nights Booked per Year (Avg) | 175 nights | 200–220+ nights for premium | Stronger peaks drive overall increase |
| Average Daily Rate (ADR) | $55–75 | $90–150+ in premium areas | Holding or slight rise in 2026 |
| Gross Annual Revenue (mid-range) | $11,300–12,000 | $15,000–20,000+ for strong | Based on $65 ADR & 48% occ |
| Net Annual Income (after costs) | $7,500–12,000 | $14,000–18,000+ for top | After 25–35% typical expenses |
Average daily rates (ADR) are holding strong too: $55–75 citywide with premium sea-view or pool-access units in Sahl Hasheesh and Makadi Bay easily reaching $90–150 during peaks. Crunch the math on that: a solid listing at $65 average nightly rate and 48% occupancy generates roughly $11,300–12,000 gross annual revenue before expenses. After typical costs (platform fees 3–5% professional management 10–15% cleaning $20–40 per turnover utilities maintenance) net income often lands in the $7,500–12,000 range for average properties and $14,000–18,000+ for the high flyers. That’s serious passive income territory especially when many investors finance with developer plans (30% down 4–6 years interest-free) meaning monthly installments are often fully covered or better.
The trend into 2026 looks even better. Tourism forecasts are climbing (18.56 million visitors projected) new flights are opening and the Red Sea push for winter escapes is only getting stronger. That means occupancy should tick toward 50–55% median for average listings and top properties could see 80%+ in peak periods consistently. If you pick the right unit manage it properly and price smartly short-term rentals in Hurghada are still one of the strongest cash-flow plays out there.
The catch? Not every property performs the same. Location management and pricing strategy make or break the returns. That’s why we always tell clients: don’t guess let’s run your exact numbers. We’ve got Airbnb-ready listings in the highest-performing areas right now and our team can show you real projected income before you buy. Curious what your budget could achieve? Drop us a quick message and we’ll crunch it for you free.
Ready to see how location changes everything? Let’s move to the area-by-area breakdown next.
Current Airbnb Market Stats & Revenue in Hurghada (2025–2026)
Median occupancy 48% • Avg. nightly rate $65 • Gross revenue ~$11,500–$12,000/year
48%
Occupancy
175 nights
Booked/Year
$11,500
Gross Revenue
$9,000
Net Income
Visual summary of key Airbnb stats in Hurghada 2025. Top units can double these numbers!
Occupancy Rates: What the Real Numbers Say
Look let’s not sugarcoat it when people hear “short-term rentals in Hurghada” the first question they ask is “Okay but how often is it actually booked?” That’s the real make-or-break number and thankfully we’ve got fresh reliable data from AirDNA and Airbtics (pulled late 2025) to cut through the hype.
The median annual occupancy rate across Hurghada right now sits at 48% that means the average listing is booked for about 175 nights per year. Sounds low if you compare it to full-time city rentals but here’s where the magic happens: this is a seasonal market not a 365-day machine. During peak months (October–April especially winter holidays and spring break) well-managed properties in premium spots regularly hit 70–75%+ and some top performers push 80% or more. Off-peak (May–September) drops to 30–40% for average listings but that’s exactly why smart investors plan around it the high-season earnings cover the quiet months and then some.
| Area | Median Annual Occupancy | Peak Season (Oct–Apr) | Notes / Why It Performs |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sahl Hasheesh & Makadi Bay | 55–65% | 80–85% | Luxury appeal repeat Europeans |
| El Gouna | 60–70% | 75–85% | Premium villas marina views |
| Central Hurghada / Tiba / Sheraton | 40–50% | 65–75% | Budget entry faster payback |
The key takeaway? Occupancy isn’t uniform it’s heavily front-loaded in winter and shoulder seasons (Oct–Apr) where 72%+ of bookings come from international tourists (Germans Brits Russians Poles) who stay longer and pay more. That’s why the 80/20 rule applies so hard here: 80% of your annual revenue usually comes from 20% of the year (peak season). Manage that correctly (dynamic pricing pro photos fast responses Superhost status) and your effective occupancy becomes much more profitable than the raw percentage suggests.
The trend into 2026 looks even better tourism forecasts are climbing (18.56 million visitors projected) new flights are landing and the Red Sea push for winter escapes is only accelerating. That means median occupancy should creep up to 50–55% for average listings and top properties could see 80%+ in peak periods consistently.
So yeah the real numbers say short-term rentals in Hurghada are far from a gamble. They’re a seasonal powerhouse that rewards the right location and management. If you’re serious about getting in before prices climb higher the occupancy data is screaming “now is the time.”
(We’ve got several Airbnb-ready apartments in the highest-occupancy zones right now sea views proven booking history and strong projected returns. Want to see what’s available and run your own numbers? Just browse our current listings at The Horizon Real Estate or drop us a message for a free custom occupancy & ROI breakdown.)
Average Daily Rates (ADR) and Annual Revenue Breakdown
Okay let’s talk money because occupancy is only half the story. The real question every investor asks is “How much am I actually going to make per night and what does that add up to over a year?”
Right now in late 2025 the citywide average daily rate (ADR) for short-term rentals in Hurghada is sitting between $55–75 according to AirDNA and Airbtics data. That’s a solid number but it hides the real excitement: premium listings in the best spots are pulling way more. Sea-view or pool-access units in Sahl Hasheesh and Makadi Bay regularly hit $90–150 during peak months (October–April) while luxury villas in El Gouna can push $200–400+ on high-demand weekends and holidays. Even budget-friendly areas like Tiba Resort and Sheraton Plaza are holding $25–80 which still makes them attractive for first-time buyers because the purchase price is much lower.
| Area | Average Nightly Rate (ADR) | Peak Season Rate (Oct–Apr) | Typical Gross Annual Revenue (mid-range unit) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sahl Hasheesh | $60–150 | $150–200+ | $15,000–20,000 |
| Makadi Bay & Al Ahyaa | $50–160 | $120–180 | $14,000–18,000 |
| El Gouna | $75–250 | $200–400+ | $20,000–30,000+ |
| Tiba Resort / Sheraton Plaza | $25–80 | $60–100 | $8,000–12,000 |
Now let’s run the math on annual revenue (gross before expenses). Take a realistic mid-range listing:
– $65 average nightly rate (blending peak and off-peak)
– 48% annual occupancy (175 nights booked the Hurghada median)
That gives you 175 × $65 = $11,375 gross revenue per year.
Bump it to a stronger 55% occupancy (200 nights very achievable with good management) and $75 ADR (easy in Sahl Hasheesh or Makadi) and you’re looking at $15,000 gross. Top performers in premium zones with 70%+ peak occupancy and $100+ ADR can easily clear $20,000–25,000 gross annually.
After typical costs (platform fees 3–5% professional management 10–15% cleaning $20–40 per turnover utilities maintenance) net income often lands in the $7,500–12,000 range for average properties and $14,000–18,000+ for the high flyers. That’s serious passive income territory especially when many investors finance with developer plans (30% down 4–6 years interest-free) meaning monthly installments are often fully covered or better.
The trend into 2026? ADR should hold or creep up slightly as demand grows (18.56 million visitors projected) and occupancy is expected to tick toward 50–55% median for average listings. If you pick the right unit manage it properly and price smartly short-term rentals in Hurghada are still one of the strongest cash-flow plays out there.
The catch? Not every property performs the same. Location management and pricing strategy make or break the returns. That’s why we always tell clients: don’t guess let’s run your exact numbers. We’ve got Airbnb-ready listings in the highest-performing areas right now and our team can show you real projected income before you buy. Curious what your budget could achieve? Drop us a quick message and we’ll crunch it for you free.
Ready to see how location changes everything? Let’s move to the area-by-area breakdown next.
Average Nightly Rates by Area – Where the Highest Returns Are
Let’s get into the juicy part where exactly in Hurghada are nightly rates (and returns) the strongest? Because not all areas are created equal and picking the right one can easily add $5,000–10,000+ to your annual revenue.
Sahl Hasheesh: Top Yields for Premium Short-Term Rentals
Sahl Hasheesh remains the king for high-end short-term rentals. Nightly rates average $60–150 (peaks easily hit $150–200+ in winter) thanks to luxury resorts gated communities and direct beach access. Annual occupancy often lands 55–65% median (peaks 80–85%) because European repeat guests love the privacy and high-end amenities. Gross revenue for a well-managed 1BR can easily top $15,000–20,000 yearly. We’ve got 8+ sea-view units listed right now in this zone all with strong booking history and projected 9–11%+ returns. Want to see them? Check our current Sahl Hasheesh inventory at The Horizon Real Estate.
Makadi Bay & Al Ahyaa: Rising Star for Investors
Makadi Bay and Al Ahyaa are heating up fast. Nightly rates $50–160 (peaks $120–180) occupancy 55–65% median. Newer developments quieter vibe and great diving/snorkeling pull families and couples who stay longer. Gross revenue for a typical 1BR/2BR $14,000–18,000/year. We have 6+ apartments in Makadi Bay ready many with pool access and sea views. Check our Makadi listings now.
El Gouna: Luxury & Premium Nightly Rates
El Gouna is the premium play. Nightly rates $75–250 (peaks $200–400+ for villas/marina views) occupancy 60–70% median. Lagoon lifestyle marina restaurants and upscale vibe attract higher-paying guests. Gross revenue $20,000–30,000+ for the right property. We have several luxury listings in El Gouna right now from studios to 2BRs with strong projected returns. See our El Gouna section.
Budget Entry Points: Tiba Resort & Sheraton Plaza
If you’re starting smaller Tiba Resort and Sheraton Plaza are solid. Nightly rates $25–80 (peaks $60–100) occupancy 40–50% median. Lower purchase prices mean faster payback even with fewer nights gross revenue $8,000–12,000/year for a studio/1BR. We have budget-friendly units listed here with proven Airbnb performance. Check our Tiba and Sheraton listings.
Want to see how these rates translate into real monthly and annual profits for your budget? Message us at The Horizon Real Estate for a free personalized breakdown.
10 Reasons Short-Term Rentals in Hurghada Deliver 8–11%+ Returns
Okay let’s get to the heart of why so many people are jumping into short-term rentals in Hurghada right now. These aren’t just random opinions they’re the real reasons we see consistent 8–11%+ returns for clients who do it right.
Reason #1: Record Tourism Growth Fueling Year-Round Bookings
Egypt just hit 15 million+ visitors in the first 10 months of 2025 Hurghada is soaking up a huge chunk. Projections are 17.76 million this year and 18.56 million in 2026. More tourists = more bookings. Simple as that.
Reason #2: Peak Season Occupancy Hits 75%+ (80/20 Rule)
Winter and holidays drive 70–85% occupancy in top areas. 80% of revenue comes from 20% of the year that’s the power of seasonality here. Nail the peak and the quiet months barely matter.
Reason #3: Affordable Purchase Prices + High Nightly Rates
Studios start around $45K 1BRs $70K yet nightly rates hit $60–150 (or more in premium zones). Low entry + high ADR = fast payback and strong ROI.
Reason #4: Flexible Developer Payment Plans Reduce Risk
Many projects offer 30% down 4–6 years interest-free. Monthly installments often get fully covered by Airbnb income low risk high reward.
Reason #5: Low Operating Costs Compared to Europe
Management fees 10–15% cleaning $20–40 per stay utilities cheap. Compare that to Europe where everything costs double your net margins stay fat.
Reason #6: Strong Demand from International Guests
72%+ of bookings are international (Europeans Russians etc.) who stay longer pay more and book repeat. That’s steady demand year after year.
Reason #7: Professional Management Boosts Returns
Good managers handle pricing photos responses cleaning pushing occupancy and rates up. We’ve seen clients go from 48% to 65%+ just with better management.
Reason #8: Rising Property Values (10–25% Appreciation)
Coastal areas like Hurghada are appreciating 10–25% yearly as tourism booms. You get rental income + capital gains double win.
Reason #9: Easy Setup for Foreign Investors
Foreigners can buy easily (up to 2 properties) get residency visa and own fully. We handle title deed paperwork and setup zero headache.
Reason #10: Passive Income Potential That Beats Stocks
8–11%+ net returns with minimal work (especially with management) beats most stock market averages and you own a piece of paradise.
These are the reasons we see clients consistently hitting strong returns. If any of these sound like your goals we’ve got Airbnb-ready properties right now that match the profile. Want to see which ones could work for you? Browse our current listings at The Horizon Real Estate or message us for a free quick ROI check.
