Legal Guide
Freehold Property Ownership in Hurghada for Foreigners
Understanding Egyptian property law, title deeds (Tabu), and your full ownership rights when buying freehold property in Hurghada as a foreign buyer.

TL;DR - Quick Summary
- ●Foreigners can own freehold property in Hurghada under Egyptian Law No. 230 of 1996
- ●Full Tabu (title deed) in your name with rights to use, rent, sell, or inherit the property
- ●No stamp duty or purchase tax for foreign buyers in Hurghada - lower costs than Spain, France, or UK
- ●Own up to 2 properties totaling 4,000 sqm maximum for personal residential use
- ●No restrictions on rental income or sale proceeds repatriation - transfer money freely
Introduction
Freehold property ownership in Hurghada is one of the strongest advantages Egypt offers to international buyers. Unlike many countries where foreigners are restricted to leasehold agreements or limited ownership rights, Egypt allows non-Egyptians to own property outright with a full title deed registered in their name.
This guide explains everything you need to know about freehold ownership in Hurghada, including the legal framework, your rights as a foreign owner, the registration process, and how Kayan Development ensures a secure and transparent purchase experience for every buyer.
Whether you are buying a holiday home in Hurghada or an investment property for rental income, understanding freehold ownership is essential to making a confident decision.
What is Freehold Property Ownership?
Freehold ownership means you own the property and the land it sits on outright and indefinitely. There is no lease term, no ground rent, and no landlord with superior rights. The property belongs to you permanently.
This is different from leasehold, where you only own the right to use the property for a fixed period (typically 99 years) after which ownership reverts to the freeholder. Leasehold arrangements are common in places like Sharm El Sheikh for foreign buyers, but Hurghada offers freehold to non-Egyptians.
Freehold vs Leasehold Comparison
| Feature | Freehold (Hurghada) | Leasehold |
|---|---|---|
| Ownership Duration | Permanent | Fixed term (e.g., 99 years) |
| Land Ownership | Yes | No |
| Ground Rent | None | Usually required |
| Inheritance Rights | Full | Limited by lease term |
| Resale Value | Stable | Decreases as lease shortens |
In Hurghada, foreign buyers receive the same freehold ownership rights as Egyptian citizens. This is a significant advantage that makes Hurghada one of the most attractive property markets for international investors.
Ready to own freehold property in Hurghada?
Speak to Our Team TodayEgyptian Property Law for Foreigners (Law 230)
Foreign property ownership in Egypt is governed by Law No. 230 of 1996. This legislation established the legal framework that allows non-Egyptian individuals and companies to acquire real estate in designated areas, including Hurghada and the Red Sea governorate.
According to Egypt's State Information Service, the Egyptian government actively encourages foreign investment in Red Sea resort zones, recognizing the economic benefits of international property ownership.
Key Provisions of Law 230
- 1.Ownership Limit: Foreign individuals can own up to two residential properties in Egypt for personal family use
- 2.Size Restriction: Combined total area must not exceed 4,000 square meters
- 3.Freehold Rights: Full ownership with title deed (Tabu) registered in the buyer's name
- 4.Investment Zones: Properties in designated investment zones (including Hurghada) are exempt from the historical 5-year resale restriction
These provisions make Egypt, and particularly Hurghada, one of the most accessible property markets for foreign buyers in the Middle East and North Africa region.
Understanding the Tabu (Title Deed)
The Tabu is the official Egyptian title deed that proves property ownership. It is the most important document you will receive when purchasing property in Hurghada and represents your legal proof of freehold ownership.
What the Tabu Contains
- ✓Owner's full legal name
- ✓Property address and description
- ✓Property size (square meters)
- ✓Building and unit number
- ✓Registration date and number
- ✓Official stamps and signatures
Where the Tabu is Registered
The Tabu is registered at the local Real Estate Registry Office (Shahr Aqari) in Hurghada. This government registration ensures:
- ✓Legal proof of ownership
- ✓Protection against disputes
- ✓Clear chain of title
- ✓Foundation for future sale
When you purchase from Kayan Development, we handle the entire Tabu registration process, coordinating with local authorities to ensure your title deed is properly recorded and delivered to you.
Your Ownership Rights as a Foreign Buyer
With freehold ownership in Hurghada, foreign buyers receive the same legal rights as Egyptian citizens. Your Tabu grants you complete control over your property.
Right to Use
Live in your property whenever you wish. Use it as a holiday home, primary residence, or simply as a vacation retreat. There are no usage restrictions.
Right to Rent
Rent your property on short-term platforms like Airbnb or through long-term tenancy agreements. Many owners generate 8-10% annual rental yields from their Hurghada properties.
Right to Sell
Sell your property at any time to any buyer (Egyptian or foreign). In Hurghada's investment zones, the historical 5-year holding restriction does not apply.
Right to Inherit (Bequeath)
Pass your property to your heirs through your will. Egyptian law respects inheritance rights for foreign property owners, allowing you to leave your asset to family members.
Right to Repatriate Funds
There are no restrictions on transferring rental income or sale proceeds out of Egypt. You can move your money freely through Egyptian banks.
The Purchase and Registration Process
Purchasing freehold property in Hurghada follows a straightforward process when you work with an established developer like Kayan Development.
- 1
Property Selection
Choose your unit from available inventory. Our team provides floor plans, pricing, and virtual tours for all Blue Crest apartments.
- 2
Reservation and Deposit
Secure your property with a 10% down payment. This reserves the unit in your name while contracts are prepared.
- 3
Contract Signing
Review and sign the sale contract. This can be done remotely with power of attorney or in person at our Hurghada office.
- 4
Payment (Flexible Installments Available)
Complete payment according to the agreed payment plan. Kayan offers up to 60 months of installments.
- 5
Tabu Registration
Upon full payment, we submit your documentation to the Real Estate Registry. The Tabu is typically issued within 2-4 weeks.
- 6
Handover and Key Collection
Receive your keys and Tabu. Your property is now legally yours, fully registered in your name.
Costs and Fees
One of the major advantages of buying property in Hurghada is the low transaction costs compared to European markets.
Typical Purchase Costs
Compare this to Spain (10-15% in taxes and fees), France (7-10%), or the UK (0-12% Stamp Duty depending on value). Hurghada offers significantly lower acquisition costs.
Want to understand your ownership costs?
Get a Full Cost BreakdownReal Example: Securing Freehold at Blue Crest
Client: A German couple purchasing their first property in Egypt
Property: 2-bedroom apartment at Blue Crest, El Hadaba (87 sqm)
Process: The clients reserved their unit with a 10% deposit during a visit to Hurghada. They chose a 36-month payment plan. Kayan Development handled all documentation, including coordination with the Real Estate Registry.
Timeline: Contract signed in January 2026. Final payment completed in March 2026. Tabu issued and delivered within 3 weeks.
Outcome: The clients now hold full freehold ownership with a Tabu in their joint names. They rent the property on Airbnb when not using it, generating approximately EUR 600-800 per month in rental income.
About Kayan Development
Kayan Development is a trusted real estate developer based in Hurghada with a proven track record of delivering quality residential projects. Our flagship development, Blue Crest, offers modern apartments in the established El Hadaba neighborhood.
- ●Over 2,000 units delivered across multiple projects
- ●Full legal support for foreign buyers including Tabu registration
- ●Flexible payment plans up to 60 months with 10% down payment
- ●After-sales support including property management connections
Our team speaks English, German, Russian, and Arabic, ensuring clear communication throughout your purchase journey.
Trust Signals
2,000+
Units Delivered
15+
Years Experience
20+
Nationalities Served
"We were concerned about buying property abroad, but Kayan made it simple. They handled everything including our title deed registration. We now have our Tabu and rent our apartment when we're not using it."
- Thomas & Maria, Germany
Frequently Asked Questions
Can foreigners own freehold property in Hurghada?▼
Yes. Under Egyptian Law No. 230 of 1996, foreigners can own freehold property in Hurghada with full ownership rights. Buyers receive a Tabu (title deed) in their name, granting the same rights as Egyptian citizens to use, rent, sell, or bequeath the property.
What is a Tabu title deed in Egypt?▼
A Tabu is the official Egyptian title deed that proves property ownership. It is registered at the local Real Estate Registry and includes the owner's name, property details, and legal description. Foreign buyers in Hurghada receive a Tabu in their own name.
How many properties can a foreigner own in Egypt?▼
Foreigners can own up to two residential properties in Egypt for personal family use, with a combined total area not exceeding 4,000 square meters. This is sufficient for most buyers seeking holiday homes or investment properties.
Is there stamp duty or purchase tax for foreigners?▼
No. One of the major advantages of buying property in Hurghada is the absence of stamp duty and purchase tax for foreign buyers. This significantly reduces acquisition costs compared to European destinations like Spain, France, or the UK.
How long does it take to register freehold property?▼
The registration process typically takes 2-4 weeks after completing the purchase. Kayan Development provides full legal support to foreign buyers, coordinating with local authorities to ensure smooth and timely title deed registration.
Conclusion
Freehold property ownership in Hurghada gives foreign buyers the security and flexibility they need to invest with confidence. With a full Tabu in your name, no stamp duty, and complete rights to use, rent, sell, or inherit your property, Egypt offers one of the most attractive legal frameworks for international property buyers.
Kayan Development makes the process simple and secure, handling all documentation and registration on your behalf. Whether you are buying a holiday home at Blue Crest or investing in Hurghada's growing property market, we are here to support you every step of the way.
Ready to Own Freehold Property in Hurghada?
Contact our team to learn more about ownership rights, see available properties, and start your journey to owning property in Egypt.