Egypt's Mediterranean North Coast grows as a summer destination

Egypt is promoting its North Coast, the stretch of Mediterranean shoreline running west from Alexandria, as a major summer holiday spot. The country's Minister of Tourism and Antiquities said the area has large investments under way and expects it to become the Mediterranean's summer destination for decades.

Demand is already rising. The number of charter flights landing at El Alamein jumped 540 per cent last year and another 50 per cent this summer, though the minister said it could have been more if hotel rooms were not in short supply. Egypt received around 14.4 million international visitors by the end of September 2026, and the minister expects the full-year figure to reach about 20 million.

The largest new project is Ras El Hekma, where Abu Dhabi's ADQ, through Modon Holding, is building across more than 170 million square metres. The opening district will feature a Montage hotel with roughly 200 rooms and suites as well as 96 villas under that brand, and the Nammos beach club label has outlined a resort and homes for sale. As of July the site was still under construction, with work due to finish by 2028.

What it means for travellers from India

• Three airports serve the coast, and the one at El Alamein plus the one at Marsa Matrouh further west are set to be expanded.
• This summer 15 airlines flew into Alamein International, among them Etihad and flydubai, although many of the routes run only in season.
• Borg El Arab airport near Alexandria is the other key arrival point, and the city is convenient for a first or final night.
• From Cairo, New Alamein is around 250km by road, a drive of less than three hours.
• Ras El Hekma is not yet open to guests, so for now it is worth watching rather than booking.