The affordable beach destination that’s huge this year with 77p beers and cheap seaside resorts
EGYPT is having a holiday comeback, with trips to the destination booming according to all the experts.
The Red Sea resorts are tempting holidaymakers back with their incredible weather, beautiful beaches, activities like snorkelling – and it’s just five hours away.
For many years Egypt was the sought-after destination for Brits thanks to its promise of great weather and barely any rain.
In 2010, Egypt saw peak British holidaymaker numbers, with around 1.4million tourists visiting.
But then Brits stopped going to Egypt as much – leading to the 2011 flight cancellations – due to conflict within the region.
This was followed by the 2015 terror attack on a Russian passenger plane which killed all 224 onboard.
As a result, flights from the UK were stopped for four years, with TUI only reintroducing holiday packages in 2019.
Now, many airlines fly to to Egypt, in particular the Red Sea resorts, like EgyptAir, easyJet, TUI, Wizz Air, British Airways, and Turkish Airlines.
And interest in heading to Egypt is higher than ever – TUI has revealed that customer numbers are up 10 percent more than last year.
It’s not just TUI which has found that Egypt is growing ever more popular. River cruise and tour operator Riviera Travel named it as the fastest-growing destination for 2026.
Comparing January-February 2025 with January-February 2026 bookings, Egypt is up 310 per cent.
It’s no surprise as in just five hours Brits can enjoy sun, sea and sand as well as affordable food and drink.
The resort cities are brilliant winter sun destinations and during the summer, temperatures can be as high as 38C – this week it’s seeing highs of 22C.
It’s not just the sunshine and beautiful resorts either as Egypt remains very affordable too.
In recent years, Egypt has been named the ‘best value for money’ destination, according to the Post Office Travel Money.
According to Wise, a beer in Egypt can be as little as 50EG£ which is 77p.
Coffee can be as little as 54p and a meal at an inexpensive restaurant starts from £1.55.
Chris Logan, Commercial Director at TUI UK&I added: “It’s one of our most in demand destinations and a stand-out location for holidaymakers in 2026.
“The choice and standard of hotels have evolved significantly keeping pace with the increased demand from UK and international tourists.”
He named Sharm El Sheikh as a popular spot for couples with its blend of relaxation, vibrant nightlife, and world‑class reefs.
Whereas Hurghada is “especially popular with families thanks to its impressive all‑inclusive offering, shallow beaches, and brilliant snorkelling”.
There’s also Marsa Alam which is gaining in popularity with “pristine beaches, exceptional diving, and a more laid‑back atmosphere”.
Chris added: “Value for money is another reason for Egypt’s resurgence.
“Whether it’s grabbing a pint in Hurghada for the equivalent of 80p, enjoying a cocktail on the seafront in Sharm for just £3, or dining out at local restaurants, customers consistently tell us they’re getting exceptional quality at a price that’s hard to beat.
“While Spain and Turkey remain firm favourites, we’re seeing North Africa flourish and Egypt is leading the way as the top choice for 2026.
“It really does have everything – UNESCO listed bucket list experiences, a welcoming culture, inspiring history, adventure, value, amazing resorts and hotels, beautiful locations, crystal clear waters, and outstanding beaches.
“All within easy reach of the UK. What’s not to love?”
TUI has revealed some of its favourite package holidays.
A seven-night holiday to Sharm el Sheikh, Egypt at the 5T TUI Magic Life Redsina Sharm el Sheikh on an all-inclusive basis starts from £789 per person.
This is based on two adults sharing a Family Area Deluxe Double Room with Garden View and Balcony departing from London Gatwick on 11 March 2026 with 20kg hold luggage per person and transfers included.
If you’re heading to Marsa Alam, TUI offers a seven-night holiday at the Jaz Grand Marsa on an all-inclusive basis from £625 per person.
Price is based on two adults sharing a Superior Twin Room with Garden View and Balcony or Terrace departing from London Gatwick on 15 March 2026 with 20kg hold luggage per person and transfers included.
Here is perfect for swimmers as its private beach has a coral reef – and there’s a trio of sea-view pools.
Over in Hurghada, you can stay at the 3T Sindbad Club on an all-inclusive basis from £1114 per person.
Price is based on two adults and two children sharing a Superior Family Room with Pool View, Waterpark View and Balcony departing from Birmingham on 30 March 2026 with 20kg hold luggage per person and transfers included.
This hotel is great for families as it has its own waterpark and a pool scene as well a 10 bars and five restaurants.
Here are the 10 fastest-growing destinations for 2026…
Riviera Travel named these 10 destinations the fastest-growing destinations for this year…
- Egypt
- Jordan
- Estonia
- Finland
- Latvia
- Slovakia
- Austria
- Hungary
- Cambodia
- Vietnam
For more on holidays to Egypt, one writer stayed a huge resort with the country’s largest water park and massive hotel buffet.
And another Sun Writer visited TUI’s Egyptian resort with a huge swimming pool – and it had unlimited booze.
