Real Estate in the Gulf vs. Egypt: Where Should Expats Invest?
If you're an Egyptian living abroad — whether in the UAE, Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, or Qatar — you've likely wondered: Should I invest in real estate here in the Gulf, or back home in Egypt?
Both regions offer opportunities. But they’re very different markets. In this article, we’ll break down the pros and cons of each — and how Select Realty helps you make the smartest move.
Investment in the Gulf: High Entry, Regulated Markets
Cities like Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Riyadh, and Doha have seen massive growth in recent years. They offer:
- Modern infrastructure
- Tax-free rental income (in some jurisdictions)
- Global buyer interest
But there are also limitations:
- High property prices (starting from $250,000+)
- Strict foreign ownership rules in some cities
- Limited long-term residence stability for some expats
- Mortgage restrictions or large down payments
Investment in Egypt: Affordable Entry, Strong ROI
Egypt’s property market is one of the most accessible in the region — especially for Egyptians abroad. With Select Realty, you can:
- Buy a unit in New Cairo or North Coast starting from $40,000
- Pay in local currency or foreign currency (USD/EUR/SAR)
- Access long installment plans up to 10 years
- Own freehold property 100% as an Egyptian national
- Sell or rent easily to local demand
With the devaluation of the Egyptian pound, expats can benefit from a much stronger currency advantage — allowing them to own more with less.
Rental Yields: Gulf vs. Egypt
- Dubai Average: 5–7% per year
- Riyadh: 4–6% (but limited zones for foreigners)
- Cairo & Red Sea Cities: 8–10% for furnished apartments in prime areas
- North Coast: 15–18% seasonal yield in peak summer weeks
Egypt’s lower prices + high rental demand = stronger % returns.
Legal Framework & Ownership Rights
In the Gulf, non-citizens can only buy in designated zones. In Egypt, any Egyptian citizen (even abroad) has full ownership rights, including resale, inheritance, and power of attorney rights.
With Select Realty, all legal paperwork is digitized and validated — and you can sign contracts remotely.
Currency Risk: A Reality — but Also an Opportunity
Yes, Egypt’s currency has fluctuated. But for expats who earn in foreign currency, this often increases purchasing power.
Buying when the pound is low means you’re buying more for less — and your rental income becomes even more valuable in foreign currency terms.
Ease of Access
To invest in the Gulf, you often need:
- Proof of residency
- Local bank accounts
- Legal translation & document certification
With Select Realty in Egypt:
- All properties are verified and listed online
- You can pay from your country via bank transfer
- You can sign remotely
- No commission is charged
Portfolio Strategy: Why Many Expats Choose Both
Some investors prefer to:
- Live in a Gulf city (for tax benefits, career)
- Invest in Egypt (for asset growth and retirement)
Many Select Realty clients own 1 apartment in Cairo and 1 vacation unit on the Red Sea — while renting in Dubai or Riyadh.
Real Stories
Walid (Kuwait): Bought a 2BR in the New Capital for $55,000 — now worth $84,000 and rented for $500/month to a local diplomat.
Dina (Dubai): Used Select Realty to find, verify, and sign for a unit in El Gouna — all without visiting Egypt.
The Verdict
If you're an Egyptian expat, both markets offer value. But Egypt offers:
- Lower entry cost
- Higher yield potential
- Less legal friction
- 100% ownership rights
And with Select Realty — you can invest in Egypt safely, remotely, and commission-free.
