Developers set out stall with Costa comparison

By Andrea Watson
Posted: 2010/05/12

A NEW multi-billiondollar resort on Egypt's Red Sea Riviera has been launched to international buyers.

Inviting comparison with the Costa del Sol's heavily tarnished seaside playground, Marbella, may not seem the wisest marketing approach but it was adopted for Port Ghalib.

"Port Ghalib will be a world-class integrated resort community rivalling Marbella and Sharm el Sheikh as the sun-seeker's destination of choice, " is the official line.

Egypt not only rivals, but has overtaken, Spain's Costa del Sol, which has 8.5 million visitors a year.

Currently, 13 million visitors head to Egypt to enjoy the country's ancient history, dry, hot climate and value for money holidays outside the eurozone.

Port Ghalib, on the west coast of the Red Sea at Marsa Alam, will comprise nine themed villages.

The first phase is nearly half-finished, providing a marina, four hotels and many villas and apartments ready for occupation.

Prices for timeshare properties start at $80,000 (£53,358).

There is also a horse academy, a children's centre and plenty of water sports.

Did anyone mention golf? Yes - but that is still to come.

INFORMATION: www.portghalib.com/ +(2022) 404 4091/3