Is Egypt a Good Place to Live for European Expats?

Over the past decade, more and more Europeans have chosen Egypt not just for holidays — but as a place to live full-time. Hurghada, Sahl Hasheesh, and El Gouna have become home to thousands of expats from Germany, the UK, Italy, France, Russia, Ukraine, and beyond.

Let’s take an honest look through the lens of someone who actually lives here.

1. Affordable Seaside Living
Compared to Europe, the cost of living in Egypt is low. You can rent or buy an apartment with sea view for a fraction of the price you'd pay in Spain or Greece. Eating out, utilities, taxis, mobile services — all cost less.

2. Sunshine All Year Round
With over 300 days of sunshine, Egypt is a dream for anyone tired of grey skies. Winter in Hurghada feels like spring in Europe.

3. Welcoming Community
Egyptians are famously warm, and the expat community is large and supportive. It’s easy to make friends, especially in expat-favorite areas like El Kawther, Intercontinental, Magawish, Al Aheya, Hadaba and Sahl Hasheesh.

4. Simple Residency Options
Foreigners who own property can easily get a 6-month renewable residency visa — and many people live here for years on that basis.

5. Family-Friendly Environment
Life is slower, calmer, and more focused on family. There are good international schools, beach clubs, water parks, and safe spaces for children to grow up.

1. Bureaucracy Can Be Frustrating
Processes like residency applications, bank accounts, and registration can be slow and unclear. It helps to have local support or a consultant to guide you.

2. Language Barrier
Arabic is the official language, and while many locals in tourist areas speak English, you may struggle outside of those zones. Learning a few basic phrases makes life much easier.

3. Cultural Differences
Egypt is a conservative country, especially outside the resorts. Foreigners are usually respected, but cultural norms around clothing, relationships, and behavior are different — and should be respected in return.

4. Healthcare Quality Varies
There are excellent clinics and doctors — but public healthcare is limited, and private care must be paid out of pocket. Health insurance is a must.

Where Do Most Expats Live?

• Hurghada: The most international, affordable, and dynamic
• El Gouna / Somabay / Makadi: Gated, upscale, but more expensive
• Sahl Hasheesh: Quiet, luxurious, perfect for couples or families
• Cairo / Alexandria: For those who need access to big-city life

Personal Insight: Why I Stayed

I first came to Egypt as a tourist — and met my future husband, who was working as a tour guide. For two years, I was flying back and forth, visiting whenever I could. Then in 2014, I finally made the decision to move permanently to Hurghada and start a new life.

At the time, I was living in St. Petersburg. It’s a stunning, historic city — but also grey, cold, and emotionally heavy. I was often feeling down, commuting nearly two hours each way to work, mostly underground. It felt like I was losing pieces of life in between train stations.

Hurghada was a breath of fresh air — literally and emotionally. Sunlight, simplicity, and space to breathe. Life here is easier, slower, more human. Less stress. Less pressure. And for me, that made all the difference.

I offer one-on-one consultations for anyone considering relocation to Egypt. I’ll help you understand visas, schools, housing, and more — based on real experience. Book your session here, or reach out with questions.