Accor, a global leader in hospitality, and Orascom Development Egypt, a leading developer specialized in creating vibrant, integrated communities, are pleased to announce the signing of a management agreement to reposition the iconic Mövenpick El Gouna as Sofitel El Gouna Resort, a luxury resort. The property will undergo an extensive phased renovation program starting in 2027, transforming it into a flagship destination under the Sofitel brand, further strengthening Accor’s luxury portfolio in Egypt.
Developed in partnership with Orascom Development Egypt and Arabian Peninsula Hospitality, the project reflects a shared ambition to partner with El Gouna Red Sea, a premium coastal destination by Orascom Development in Egypt, where lifestyle, culture and hospitality converge.
As a pioneer in creating platforms across art, culture, entertainment, entrepreneurship, hospitality, gastronomy and sports, El Gouna continues to shape Egypt’s lifestyle scene. From the El Gouna Film Festival to Taste El Gouna to international sporting championships, the town leads and inspires its global community of more than 50 nationalities.
“Egypt has always held a special place in Sofitel’s story, and today’s signing of Sofitel El Gouna Resort represents a new chapter in our journey here. El Gouna embodies a rare balance of nature, community and international lifestyle, making it an ideal setting for Sofitel. This project reflects our shared ambition with our partners to create a landmark resort that celebrates both local identity and French elegance.”
A Flagship Resort in the Heart of El Gouna Red Sea
Located along the Red Sea, El Gouna is a sunny seaside livable town that operates all year round, defined by its waterfront living, lagoons, distinctive architecture, and vibrant marina lifestyle.
Developed over the past 36 years, El Gouna is a vibrant destination, home to a diverse international community representing more than 50 nationalities, while welcoming around one million visitors annually. Just 30 minutes from Hurghada International Airport and within a five-hour direct flight from the UK and major European cities, the town offers seamless accessibility for both residents and visitors.
This combination of accessibility, established community, and year-round livability is reflected in a fully developed ecosystem, from boutique hideaways to five-star resorts, with more than 18 hotels set within a vibrant town that includes five schools, a hospital, and thriving business hubs.
With over 100 dining concepts, El Gouna has also set a new benchmark for hospitality on the Red Sea, reinforcing its position as a place where people choose to live, work, invest, and truly belong.
Sofitel El Gouna Resort will benefit from a rare and expansive beachfront peninsula setting, combining both sea and lagoon access – an exceptional feature within the destination. This unique positioning will enable the creation of a large-scale, immersive luxury resort designed to become a central anchor within El Gouna’s grand hospitality landscape.
The project aligns with the town’s strategy of creating unmatched premium experiences to visitors and residents alike, further reinforcing its appeal to international travellers.
“El Gouna on the Red Sea is renowned for its international standards and integrated lifestyle offering, anchored by a portfolio of premium hotels. The addition of Sofitel reflects a shared commitment to quality hospitality and reinforces confidence in Orascom Development Egypt and El Gouna’s growth vision. Set within El Gouna’s iconic lagoon landscape, Sofitel El Gouna Resort will deliver a refined and immersive experience that stays true to the town’s distinctive character.”
— Dr Eskandar Tooma, Chairman of Orascom Development Egypt
“Our partnership with Accor and Sofitel reflects our long-term vision to continuously build on El Gouna’s position as a premium global destination on the Red Sea. It reinforces the town’s international profile while adding a new layer to its distinctive identity, lifestyle offering, and vibrant community. With its exceptional location, integrated design, and focus on refined experiences, Sofitel El Gouna will play a key role in the next chapter of hospitality within the destination, attracting visitors from around the world.”
