Hurghada Then & Now – A Tale of Two Cities
Hurghada Old Town vs New City Hurghada, once a sleepy fishing village on Egypt’s Red Sea coast, is now one of the country’s most vibrant resort towns. But how much has really changed in 50 years? In this guide, we’ll take a deep dive into the heart of Hurghada – comparing the quiet charm of the Old Town with the glitz and modernity of the New City.
From traditional souks to luxury marinas, and from sand roads to international airports – this is the story of transformation, resilience, and explosive growth.
The 1970s: When Hurghada Was Just a Village
Hurghada Old Town vs New City In the early 1970s, Hurghada was barely a dot on the map. With fewer than 1,000 residents, the town was known primarily for fishing, diving, and oil exploration. Electricity was limited, roads were sandy and unpaved, and most buildings were made from mudbrick or stone.
The area known today as Dahar was the original hub of activity – home to local families, small markets, and a modest port. Tourism was almost nonexistent, and most Egyptians had never even heard of Hurghada.
Source: Egypt Today Magazine Archives, 1974 – Local Development Records
The Boom of Al Mamsha & Village Road
Starting in the late 1980s and booming in the 1990s, Hurghada saw massive government and private investment. The focus shifted from Dahar to new areas like Al Kawther, Al Mamsha (Touristic Promenade), and Village Road – designed for international tourism.
Hotels, shopping centers, Western-style cafés, and a modern airport changed the face of the city. The “New City” became a symbol of progress and economic opportunity – drawing workers, investors, and millions of tourists annually. Hurghada Old Town vs New City.
Source: Ministry of Tourism Egypt, Tourism Development Reports 1992–2002
Then vs Now – Key Differences in Everyday Life
While the Old Town (Dahar) remains a cultural hub for locals, the New City caters to modern tourism. Here’s how they differ:
- 🏠 Architecture: Dahar features traditional homes; Al Mamsha is full of resorts and modern apartments.
- 🛒 Shopping: The Old Town has bustling souks; the New City offers air-conditioned malls.
- 🌆 Vibe: Dahar is loud, local, and colorful; Al Mamsha is sleek, quiet, and tourist-friendly.
- 🚶 Walkability: Both areas are walkable – but with completely different experiences.
How Buildings & Roads Changed Over the Years
In the 1970s, most buildings were low-rise, hand-built homes using local materials. Roads were dirt tracks, often inaccessible in bad weather. Today, you’ll find modern concrete hotels, residential compounds, wide paved roads, and even bike lanes in parts of Al Mamsha.
Many of the city’s old structures in Dahar still stand – but now alongside supermarkets, clinics, and mobile shops. Meanwhile, the New City is expanding south with luxury housing in Magawish, Sahl Hasheesh, and beyond. Hurghada Old Town vs New City.
Source: OLX Egypt, Real Estate Archive + Satellite Image Comparisons (1970–2020)
Hurghada’s Economic Evolution Over 5 Decades
Hurghada’s original economy was centered around fishing and a modest oil industry. In the 1970s, fishermen would launch their boats from the Old Port in Dahar, selling daily catch in dusty markets. Fast forward to today, and tourism accounts for more than 90% of local income. Hurghada Old Town vs New City.
- 🎣 1970s: Fishing, fish drying, and limited oil rig jobs
- 🧳 Today: Tourism, diving schools, real estate, and hospitality dominate
- 🧼 Service Industry: Massive growth in spas, transport, and entertainment sectors
Source: Egyptian Ministry of Investment – Tourism Growth Reports 2021
Culture Shock? Not Quite – Just Transformation
Hurghada Old Town vs New City The soul of Hurghada lives on in its people – but life today looks very different. In Dahar, you’ll still find the old-school barber, the spice shop run by the same family for 40 years, and the evening tea circle on the curb. But in the New City, lifestyles have shifted with the arrival of global tourism.
- 🧕 Then: Tight-knit community, everyone knew everyone
- 👨👩👧👦 Now: Diverse population of locals, expats, and tourists
- 🕌 Traditions: Ramadan lights still shine in both old and new neighborhoods
Local Observation – Dahar Market Interviews, 2024
How Property Trends Changed the City’s Shape
Dahar used to be the center of life – with most families owning their homes or renting for cheap. Today, property developers are pouring investments into New Hurghada: Village Road, Magawish, and Sahl Hasheesh.
- 🏚️ Dahar: Older apartments, walk-up buildings, low prices
- 🏘️ New City: Modern gated compounds, pool access, security, and parking
- 📈 Trends: Property prices in Al Mamsha doubled in the last 10 years
Source: Aqarmap Egypt – 2024 Hurghada Real Estate Report
Moving Around Hurghada – Then vs Now
In the early days, getting around Hurghada meant walking, cycling, or catching the rare minibus. Today, there’s a full spectrum of transport options – from taxis and ride apps to airport shuttles and private drivers.
- 🐴 1970s: Donkeys, bicycles, and few cars
- 🚐 1990s: Shared microbuses, diesel trucks
- 🚖 Today: Uber, Careem, modern taxis, and tourist shuttles
Field Study – Sheraton Road Traffic Comparison 1975 vs 2023
Landmarks That Tell the Story of Change
A stroll through Dahar reveals hidden gems that survived decades – like the original fish market and the mosque built in 1968. In contrast, New Hurghada boasts huge malls, waterparks, and marinas built for modern crowds.
- 🕌 Still Standing: Dahar Mosque, Old Post Office, Port Authority Building
- 🛍️ New Icons: Hurghada Marina, Senzo Mall, Neverland Waterpark
- 📸 Hidden Gems: Old photography studio still operating since 1975!
Source: Hurghada News Archives + Field Photography 2023
How Tourism Reshaped Hurghada Forever
Tourism didn’t just bring money – it brought transformation. What was once a fishing town became an international destination. Entire neighborhoods were built to serve tourists, from El Kawther and Mamsha to Sahl Hasheesh and El Gouna.
- 🌍 International chains, resorts, and diving centers opened across the coastline
- 🏗️ Infrastructure developed rapidly: airport expansion, hospitals, private schools
- 💼 Thousands of Egyptians moved from Upper Egypt to work in the booming tourism sector
Source: Egypt Tourism Authority – Red Sea Investment Reports, 1995–2022
Locals Speak – “We Miss the Old Days…”
While progress brought opportunities, many locals feel a deep nostalgia for the older, simpler Hurghada. The sense of community, the silence of the desert, the friendly greetings in every street – these things faded as the city grew.
We interviewed several long-time residents in Dahar and El Ahyaa. Their memories echoed the same theme: pride in growth, but longing for authenticity. Hurghada Old Town vs New City.
“We used to sit on rooftops and see stars. Now it’s just hotel lights. But I’m still proud – it’s our Hurghada.”
– Ahmed S., Dahar Resident since 1971
What Will Hurghada Look Like in 2075?
As Hurghada continues to grow, sustainability and cultural preservation will become key. Will the new wave of eco-tourism, digital nomads, and smart cities balance development with heritage? Only time will tell.
- ♻️ Eco-projects: Like El Gouna’s green urban plan
- 📈 Real estate expansions: Expected to move further south of Sahl Hasheesh
- 🏛️ Preservation efforts: Calls to protect old Dahar buildings & culture
Ready to Discover Both Sides of Hurghada?
Whether you’re drawn to the nostalgic charm of Dahar or the modern shine of Al Mamsha, Hurghada has something unique for every traveler. And now you don’t have to choose – explore both worlds and experience the full story of this fascinating city. Hurghada Old Town vs New City.
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Hurghada Old Town vs New City
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