Unveiling Marassi Red Sea: Egypt’s $18 Billion Luxury Tourism Revolution

In recent years, Egypt has set its sights on enhancing its tourism landscape, and the unveiling of the Marassi Red Sea project marks a monumental step in this direction.

With an ambitious budget of approximately USD 18 billion (EGP 900 billion), this luxury development promises to reshape the country’s tourism offerings and elevate its status on the global stage.

Launched in collaboration with major players like Emaar Misr and City Stars, the project was officially initiated under the watchful eye of Prime Minister Mostafa Madbouly in September 2025, establishing Emaar Misr as the master developer and securing essential land use rights.

Spread across a sprawling 2,426 feddans (about
10.2 square kilometers) just half an hour from Hurghada International Airport, Marassi Red Sea is poised to become a beacon of luxury tourism, complete with a remarkable array of amenities and sustainable initiatives.

Unveiling Marassi Red Sea: Egypt

Key Takeaways

  • The Marassi Red Sea project represents an $18 billion investment in Egypt’s luxury tourism sector.
  • The development aims to create up to 170,000 jobs during construction and 25,000 permanent positions upon completion.
  • Marassi Red Sea seeks to enhance Egypt’s global tourism appeal while emphasizing sustainability and green initiatives.

Overview of the Marassi Red Sea Project

The Marassi Red Sea project is poised to redefine luxury tourism in Egypt, representing a monumental investment of approximately USD 18 billion (EGP 900 billion), developed through a strategic partnership between Emaar Misr and City Stars.

Announced on September 7, 2025, under the supervision of Prime Minister Mostafa Madbouly, this ambitious initiative covers an expansive area of 2,426 feddans (around
10.2 square kilometers), conveniently located just 30 minutes from Hurghada International Airport.

Designed to enhance Egypt’s appeal as a premier global tourism destination, the Marassi Red Sea development will comprise 12 luxury hotels along with serviced residences, a state-of-the-art marina, and an impressive 400-meter waterfront pier, along with Maldives-inspired floating cabins that promise a unique vacation experience.

Complementing the opulent accommodations, the project will offer a plethora of amenities, including private beaches, luxurious infinity pools, and over 500 dining and retail outlets.

Further enhancing the locality, the Marassi Wonders district will introduce an international conference center, commercial spaces, aquatic facilities, and lifestyle clubs, all grounded in sustainability efforts aimed at preserving biodiversity through extensive afforestation.

The project is projected to create between 150,000 and 170,000 jobs during construction and approximately 25,000 permanent roles upon completion, influencing sectors such as logistics and retail.

This initiative not only builds on the successful Marassi North Coast project, which attracted four million visitors over three months, but also aligns with Egypt’s broader economic strategy to harness Gulf investments, thereby boosting the economy, reducing unemployment, and establishing diverse revenue streams amidst ongoing economic challenges.

Additionally, it follows a notable USD 35 billion agreement with Abu Dhabi’s ADQ for further development in Ras El Hekma, underscoring the Egyptian government’s commitment to enhancing its tourism and real estate sectors through international collaboration.

Economic and Environmental Impacts of Marassi Red Sea

The Marassi Red Sea project is not just a leap for Egypt’s luxury tourism sector; it is a strategic move aimed at invigorating the economy through environmental mindfulness and job creation.

As the development unfolds, there is a strong emphasis on sustainability.

The initiative is designed to integrate eco-friendly practices, fostering vast green areas and promoting biodiversity through substantial afforestation efforts.

This commitment to environmental sustainability is crucial as it aligns with global standards for tourism development, helping to preserve the picturesque Red Sea coastline while simultaneously enhancing the visitor experience.

Furthermore, by establishing infrastructure that accommodates both leisure and business, the Marassi Red Sea project seeks to attract a diverse array of tourists, ultimately positioning Egypt as a leading player in the luxury tourism market.