Discover the vibrant beauty of Sahl Hasheesh Bay, a captivating Red Sea resort located on the stunning coast of Egypt, just a stone’s throw away from Hurghada. This bay is a bustling hub that offers a plethora of activities for all types of travelers. From its pristine beaches and crystal-clear waters teeming with marine life to its incredible coral reefs that are perfect for diving and snorkeling, Sahl Hasheesh Bay is a paradise for nature enthusiasts. In addition, the bay is home to a magnificent artificial reef that has become a popular attraction for tourists seeking unique underwater experiences. With its breathtaking scenery, luxurious hotels, and a thriving community, Sahl Hasheesh Bay is a true gem waiting to be explored.
Development
Purchase of land by Egyptian Resorts Company
In 1995, the Egyptian Resorts Company (ERC) acquired the rights to develop Sahl Hasheesh. This purchase allowed ERC to envision and create a massive project for the area. ERC had a long-term plan to develop a fully integrated mixed-use resort city that would be economically and environmentally sustainable. The company aimed to complete the plans for this 12-square mile community by 2020.
Vision for the area
ERC’s vision for Sahl Hasheesh was to develop a vibrant and thriving community that would attract both residents and tourists. The plan included the creation of upscale resorts, residential units, and various amenities and attractions. The goal was to establish Sahl Hasheesh as a premier destination on the Red Sea coast of Egypt.
Completion plans for the community
With the purchase of the land and a clear vision for the area, ERC set out to complete the development plans for Sahl Hasheesh. The company aimed to finish the construction and infrastructure projects by 2020, creating a fully integrated community that would cater to the needs of residents and tourists alike.
Residential units at Old Town and Palm beaches
As part of the development plans, ERC completed the residential units at Old Town and Palm beaches in 2008. These units quickly sold out, highlighting the demand for housing in Sahl Hasheesh. Additionally, there are other residential projects in the area, such as Palm Beach Piazza and Family Resort Ocean Breeze, offering apartments and villas for sale.
Tourism and Hotels
Upscale resorts and awards
One of the standout features of Sahl Hasheesh is its upscale resorts. Oberoi Sahl Hasheesh, in particular, has gained recognition as one of the more luxurious resorts in the Middle East. It won first place in the Trip Advisors 2016 Travelers Choice Award for the top 25 Luxury Hotels in Egypt. These resorts offer premium amenities and services to ensure a luxurious and memorable experience for their guests.
Struggles in selling properties
In 2015, ERC faced challenges in selling its properties and experienced a decline in the value of its stock. However, the developer managed to turn things around in 2016. The company achieved a strong financial balance sheet, and its hotels started receiving high ratings from tourists worldwide. This success marked a significant improvement and demonstrated the resilience and appeal of Sahl Hasheesh as a tourist destination.
Return of tourism to pre-revolution levels
One of the indicators of Sahl Hasheesh’s growing popularity is the return of tourism to pre-revolution levels. After the upheavals in Egypt, the tourism industry faced significant setbacks. However, Sahl Hasheesh managed to bounce back and attract tourists again. The revitalization of tourism in the region is a testament to the appeal and attractiveness of the destination.
Other Developers
Inertia Holdings projects in Sahl Hasheesh
In addition to ERC, other developers have recognized the potential of Sahl Hasheesh and embarked on their projects in the area. Inertia Holdings, as of 2018, had ongoing projects in Sahl Hasheesh. This demonstrates the confidence that multiple developers have in the growth and future of the resort city.
Location and Features
Bay location and proximity to Hurghada International Airport
Sahl Hasheesh enjoys a prime location along the Red Sea coast of Egypt, near the city of Hurghada. It is approximately 18 km south of Hurghada International Airport, making it easily accessible to domestic and international travelers. The bay location offers stunning views and access to the Red Sea’s pristine waters.
Islands and coral reefs for diving and snorkeling
Sahl Hasheesh is home to a number of islands and coral reefs, making it a haven for diving and snorkeling enthusiasts. The bay’s crystal-clear waters and diverse marine life attract visitors from around the world. One notable island in the area is Abou Hasheesh Island, which serves as a protectorate for marine life and offers an opportunity to explore a thriving underwater ecosystem.
Abou Hasheesh Island protectorate
Abou Hasheesh Island, located near Sahl Hasheesh, is a protected area that houses a thriving community of marine life. This island serves as a sanctuary for various species and offers visitors a chance to witness the beauty and biodiversity of the Red Sea. Exploring Abou Hasheesh Island is a must-do activity for nature lovers and those seeking an immersive underwater experience.
Climate
Coastal aridity and seasonal temperatures
Sahl Hasheesh experiences a coastal arid climate, characterized by hot and dry summers and mild winters. The region enjoys pleasant temperatures throughout the year, making it an ideal destination for beachgoers and sun-seekers. The coastal location provides a refreshing breeze, offering relief from the heat during the summer months.
Low and infrequent rainfall
Rainfall in Sahl Hasheesh is minimal and infrequent. The arid climate of the region means that precipitation is scarce, contributing to the dry and sunny weather that attracts visitors year-round. The lack of rainfall further enhances the appeal of Sahl Hasheesh as a beach and outdoor destination, as visitors can expect clear skies and sunny days.
Attractions and Activities
Partly submerged artificial city for diving and snorkeling
One of the unique attractions in Sahl Hasheesh is the partly submerged artificial city. This artificial reef has been created to attract marine life and has become a popular spot for diving and snorkeling. Exploring the underwater city offers a one-of-a-kind experience, allowing visitors to witness the fusion of nature and human ingenuity in a stunning underwater setting.
Residential Projects
Completion of residential units at Old Town and Palm beaches
ERC successfully completed the residential units at Old Town and Palm beaches in 2008, meeting the demand for housing in Sahl Hasheesh. These residential areas provide residents with a luxurious and comfortable living environment, complete with amenities and access to the beach. The completion of these residential units marked a significant milestone in the development of Sahl Hasheesh as a self-sufficient community.
Other residential projects selling apartments and villas
Apart from the completed residential units at Old Town and Palm beaches, Sahl Hasheesh offers other residential projects for those looking to invest in properties. Palm Beach Piazza and Family Resort Ocean Breeze are examples of ongoing projects that offer apartments and villas for sale. These properties provide residents with an exclusive and enjoyable lifestyle in a stunning coastal environment.
Hotels and Resorts
Oberoi Sahl Hasheesh rated as upscale resort
Oberoi Sahl Hasheesh stands out as one of the premier resorts in Sahl Hasheesh. It has gained recognition for its upscale offerings and exceptional service. The resort has been consistently recognized as one of the more luxurious accommodations in the Middle East. Its commitment to providing a memorable and luxurious experience has earned it accolades and positive reviews from guests.
Other hotels in the top 10 of Hurgada hotels
In addition to Oberoi Sahl Hasheesh, other hotels in Sahl Hasheesh have also made their mark in the hospitality industry. Several hotels from the resort town have been ranked in the top 10 of Hurgada hotels. This recognition highlights the quality of accommodations and services available in Sahl Hasheesh, contributing to its reputation as a desirable tourist destination.
Sahl Hasheesh in Context
Red Sea Riviera
Sahl Hasheesh is part of the Red Sea Riviera, a stretch of coastal resorts and cities along the Red Sea in Egypt. This region attracts tourists with its beautiful beaches, crystal-clear waters, and diverse marine life. Sahl Hasheesh adds to the allure of the Red Sea Riviera, offering unique attractions, upscale resorts, and a thriving community.
Marsa Alam
Marsa Alam, another popular destination along the Red Sea Riviera, is located south of Sahl Hasheesh. It is known for its pristine beaches, coral reefs, and high-quality diving spots. Marsa Alam and Sahl Hasheesh complement each other as neighboring destinations, providing tourists with a wide range of experiences and activities along the Red Sea coast.
El Gouna
El Gouna is a renowned resort town located north of Sahl Hasheesh. It is often referred to as the “Venice of the Red Sea” due to its network of canals. El Gouna offers a vibrant and cosmopolitan atmosphere, with luxurious accommodations, golf courses, and a thriving nightlife. Sahl Hasheesh’s proximity to El Gouna allows visitors to explore and experience the diverse offerings of both destinations.
List of cities and towns in Egypt
Egypt is home to a rich tapestry of cities and towns, each with its unique characteristics and attractions. Sahl Hasheesh adds to this list with its stunning bay location, upscale resorts, and thriving community. It contributes to the diversity of destinations available to travelers in Egypt and showcases the country’s ability to offer a wide range of experiences.
In conclusion, Sahl Hasheesh in Egypt offers a fascinating blend of natural beauty, upscale resorts, and a thriving community. With its completion plans for the community, residential projects, and attractions like the partly submerged artificial city, Sahl Hasheesh has become an alluring destination for residents and tourists. Its proximity to Hurghada International Airport and its location along the Red Sea coast make it easily accessible. The climate in Sahl Hasheesh is characterized by coastal aridity and seasonal temperatures, further enhancing its appeal as a beach and outdoor destination. With the return of tourism to pre-revolution levels and the recognition of its upscale resorts, Sahl Hasheesh has firmly established itself as a premier destination in the Red Sea Riviera.