Complete Guide to Buying Property in Egypt as a Foreigner: Legal Process, Costs, and Tips
Egypt is one of the most accessible countries in the world for foreign property buyers. Whether you are from Europe, Russia, the Middle East, or beyond, the Egyptian government welcomes international real estate investment. This guide covers everything you need to know about the legal process, costs, and practical tips for buying property in Egypt in 2026.Can Foreigners Buy Property in Egypt?Yes, foreigners can legally buy and own property in Egypt. The Egyptian government has implemented clear regulations that allow non-citizens to purchase residential and commercial properties. However, there are a few key rules to understand.Foreign ownership is limited to two residential properties per person. Properties in certain border and military zones may have restrictions, though Hurghada and the Red Sea coast are fully open to foreign buyers. In a freehold purchase, you own the property outright and can sell, rent, or transfer it freely.The Legal Process Step by StepStep 1: Choose Your Property. Work with a licensed local real estate consultancy like MAMO Property to identify properties that match your budget, lifestyle, and investment goals.Step 2: Due Diligence. Before signing any agreement, verify the developer’s registration, the property’s legal status, and any existing encumbrances. MAMO Property handles this process for all clients.Step 3: Sign a Preliminary Contract. Once you have selected a property, sign a preliminary sales contract (known as an “Aqed Ebtda’y”) and pay a deposit — typically 10-20% of the purchase price.Step 4: Pay the Purchase Price. Complete the remaining payments according to the agreed schedule. Many Egyptian developers offer installment plans of 4-8 years with no interest.Step 5: Final Contract and Registration. Sign the final contract at a notary and register the property at the local Real Estate Publicity Department. Registration provides full legal protection of your ownership.Costs and FeesBeyond the property price, you should budget for registration fees (approximately 2-3% of the property value), legal and notary fees (1-2%), property tax (minimal — approximately 0.1% annually), and agency fees (typically covered by the seller in Egypt).Most cost-effective payment structures involve installment plans offered by developers, which effectively provide interest-free financing over several years.Tax ImplicationsEgypt has favorable tax policies for property owners. There is no capital gains tax for properties sold after five years of ownership. Annual property tax is minimal and only applies to properties valued above a threshold. Rental income tax is progressive but reasonable.We recommend consulting with a tax advisor in your home country regarding any reporting obligations for overseas property ownership.Common Mistakes to AvoidNot conducting proper due diligence on the developer or property history. Sending money before having a legally binding contract. Skipping property registration, which is essential for legal protection. Buying without understanding the local market, leading to overpayment.Why Choose Hurghada?Hurghada offers the ideal combination of affordability, lifestyle quality, and investment potential. Properties start from just $25,000, the cost of living is low, the climate is outstanding, and the Red Sea coastline is world-famous.Get Expert HelpMAMO Property specializes in helping foreign buyers navigate every aspect of Egyptian real estate. From market research to legal completion, we provide full support in English, Russian, German, and Arabic.Contact us at +20 11 52980998 or email sales@mamoproperty.com to start your property journey in Egypt.
