
Gewan Hotels & Resorts Unveils a Strategic Expansion in Egyptian Hospitality with Five Rebranded Properties
Gewan Hotels & Resorts, a leading name in luxury hospitality across the Middle East, announces its strategic entry into the Egyptian hospitality sector, marking a significant milestone in the brand's regional expansion with the rebranding and operation of five distinct properties. This move strengthens its presence in this key market, and emphasizes the company's commitment to leveraging Egypt's immense potential as a major tourism destination, building upon its rich cultural heritage and robust sectoral growth.
In this Interview, Ahmed Hassib, CEO and Co-Founder of Gewan Hotels & Resorts, elaborates on the brand's unique philosophy, shares insights on the company's vision, and outlines the ambitious trajectory for the brand's continued growth within Egypt and across the region.
Ahmed Hassib, CEO and Co-Founder of Gewan Hotels & Resorts
Congratulations on Gewan Hotels & Resorts' entry into Egypt's hospitality scene. Could you tell us more about the five iconic properties your group will be rebranding, and why Egypt was chosen as a key market?
Egypt has always offered exceptional potential for hospitality investment, not only due to its rich cultural and touristic legacy but also its strategic growth in the hospitality and tourism sector and infrastructure over the past decade. As an Egyptian-rooted brand with regional ambitions, it was both a natural and strategic decision to solidify our presence here.
We're proud to be rebranding and operating five distinct properties under the Gewan Hotels & Resorts portfolio: Gewan Palace New Alamein, a flagship luxury destination blending classical architecture with contemporary elegance; Gewan Luxury Resort New Alamein, a serene retreat along the North Coast designed for high-end leisure and exclusive family stays; Gewan White Beach Resort, a beachfront paradise capturing the essence of Mediterranean charm with modern comfort; Gewan Resort New Alamein, a modern, family-friendly resort tailored for elevated yet approachable holiday experiences; and Gewan Hotel Cairo, located in the heart of the capital, redefining urban hospitality with personalized service and a business-leisure balance.
Our entry into Egypt reflects our long-term belief in its tourism revival and the growing demand for locally managed, globally inspired hotel experiences.
The rebranding goes beyond a name change. With the brand promise of 'Redefining the Future of Hospitality,' how do you ensure delivering on that vision across all properties?
'Redefining the Future of Hospitality' isn't just a tagline for us; it's a deeply embedded philosophy in our operations, upheld by five key pillars. We personalize every guest's stay, from leisure to corporate, using their insights to create tailored guest experiences. Our commitment to operational excellence is demonstrated in our team's training, which combines international service standards with the Gewan brand ethos. We ensure each property is deeply rooted in its local surroundings while delivering global sophistication, embodying local identity, and global comfort. Furthermore, we embrace innovation to enhance the guest journey through smart hospitality, offering everything from tech-enabled rooms to seamless check-ins. Finally, we prioritize talent and leadership by empowering our teams with ongoing development, guaranteeing a consistent, sincere, and evolving Gewan experience.
What distinct elements will Gewan bring to the five properties and Egypt's hospitality landscape?
Gewan brings a unique blend of Egyptian authenticity, regional expertise, and international standards. We stand out because we're not just operators; we're deeply invested in the long-term value of our properties, ensuring ownership with operational integrity. We provide flexible luxury that is refined yet accessible, catering to today's diverse travelers. Guests will experience cultural hospitality reimagined, feeling the spirit of Egypt through our architecture, food, service rituals, and storytelling. Additionally, our hotels actively participate in their communities, supporting local artisans and hosting cultural programs, demonstrating our commitment to community integration. These elements ensure Gewan is more than just another brand; it's a brand with purpose and a strong identity.
How will Gewan blend local culture with world-class experience?
We approach this blend with intentionality and respect. Each of our properties reflects its locale, from design details and locally sourced cuisine to guest activities and staff storytelling. The goal is to create a dialogue between the place and the guest, where the experience feels both authentic and elevated.
Can you tell us about Gewan's future expansion plans in Egypt and the region?
At Gewan Hotels & Resorts, our approach to expansion is always grounded in strategic evaluation, market demand, and long-term sustainability. Egypt is a market rich in opportunity, and our current footprint is only the beginning.
While we're proud of our existing properties, we are actively exploring future prospects across both the North Coast and key urban destinations, with a clear focus on locations that align with our vision for top-notch hospitality.
Our goal is not just to grow in number but to expand thoughtfully, ensuring that each new addition strengthens the brand's identity and brings value to both our guests and stakeholders. We're currently in the assessment phase for several opportunities and will proceed with measured steps that reflect both market readiness and our brand standards.
As CEO and Co-Founder, what key philosophies or decisions have helped shape Gewan's position today?
Our growth is continuously shaped by three core philosophies. Firstly, guest-centricity dictates that every aspect of our operations begins and ends with the guest experience, as we build brands around people, not just properties. Secondly, we embrace agility with vision, meaning we adapt quickly to changing landscapes while always keeping our long-term goals firmly in sight. Lastly, our team-first leadership recognizes our people as our strongest asset, understanding that empowered teams are essential for creating exceptional guest experiences. A key decision early on was to build our brand on regional excellence rather than global imitation, which has allowed us to create something original, sustainable, and truly aligned with the needs of our market.
Finally, a few words on what this expansion into Egypt means for Gewan?
This expansion marks a return to our roots, both personally and as a brand. Egypt represents growth, opportunity, and legacy; it's where we're reconnecting with heritage while introducing a new standard of hospitality.
As I often say, 'We don't just build hotels, we create destinations where people feel seen, valued, and inspired. Gewan's journey in Egypt is just the beginning, and the future holds limitless promise.'
Hashtags

Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles


Daily News Egypt
2 hours ago
- Daily News Egypt
Being strategic partners, sky is limit for India-Egypt relations: Indian Ministry of External Affairs
New Delhi–In an era marked by rapidly shifting geopolitical dynamics, India is asserting an increasingly influential role—not only as an economic powerhouse but also as a trusted partner in international development and regional stability. Daily News Egypt, invited to a high-level media briefing held at the Indian Ministry of External Affairs in New Delhi, joined a select group of journalists from North and Sub-Saharan Africa to gain exclusive insight into India's expanding strategic vision. At the heart of that vision lies a strengthening partnership with Egypt, a bilateral relationship that has recently witnessed unprecedented momentum and diversification. Alongside its deepening ties with Egypt, India is also reinforcing its age-old connections with the African continent through a distinct model of needs-based cooperation rooted in shared history, mutual respect, and inclusive development. A Flourishing Strategic Partnership with Egypt Arun Kumar Chatterjee, Secretary (Consular & Diaspora) in the Indian Ministry of External Affairs, described India and Egypt as strategic partners, highlighting 2023 as a landmark year in the trajectory of bilateral ties. He recalled the historic visit of Egyptian President Abdel Fattah Al-Sisi to India in January 2023, during which he served as the chief guest at India's Republic Day celebrations—an honour reserved for the closest of allies. Later that year, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi paid an official visit to Cairo in June 2023, where he and President Al-Sisi signed a joint declaration to elevate relations to the level of a strategic partnership. President Al-Sisi returned to India again in September to participate in the G20 Summit hosted by New Delhi. 'This level of engagement is unprecedented and reflects a strong, mature, and strategic relationship between our two countries,' Chatterjee noted. 'Being strategic partners, you can imagine—the sky is the limit.' On the economic front, he reported that the current trade volume between India and Egypt stands at approximately $6bn. 'Sixbn is a promising figure, but we are not content. We aim to double this number in the coming years,' Chatterjee said, pointing to the considerable untapped potential in sectors such as manufacturing, infrastructure, agriculture, and digital technology. He further noted that Indian investments in Egypt are currently estimated at around $5bn, adding that both governments are exploring major developmental projects to further deepen bilateral economic cooperation. Shared Values and Solidarity Amid Global Crises Secretary Chatterjee also expressed deep appreciation for Egypt's solidarity in the wake of a terrorist attack on Indian tourists in Kashmir. He highlighted a phone call from President Al-Sisi to Prime Minister Modi, during which the Egyptian leader conveyed Egypt's full support and condolences. 'We were extremely grateful to all our friends and partners who stood with us in the fight against terrorism. Egypt's expression of solidarity was both timely and meaningful,' Chatterjee affirmed. Addressing more recent developments, Chatterjee commented on the Israeli strikes in Iran, saying that India had issued a formal statement expressing 'deep concern' over the escalation. He emphasised that India maintains 'very good relations with both Iran and Israel,' and continues to monitor the situation closely, particularly with regard to the safety of its large diaspora communities in both countries. 'We have advised all Indian nationals in these areas to exercise care and caution and stay safe,' he added. India's Position on Gaza and the Israeli-Palestinian Conflict Turning to the ongoing war in Gaza, Chatterjee reiterated India's principled stance in favour of peace, diplomacy, and humanitarian protection. 'India has consistently expressed concern over the loss of civilian lives and the urgent need to uphold humanitarian obligations,' he said. He underscored India's support for international efforts to deliver aid to civilians in Gaza, stating: 'India has provided humanitarian assistance both bilaterally and through UN channels. We have also called for a safe, sustained, and timely supply of humanitarian assistance to those affected.' On the broader conflict, he reaffirmed India's long-standing position. 'India has always supported a negotiated two-state solution to the Israeli-Palestinian issue—one that leads to the establishment of a sovereign, independent, and viable Palestinian state, living side by side with Israel in peace and security, within recognised and secure borders,' Chatterjee stressed. 'We believe that dialogue and diplomacy remain the best way forward, and our leaders have remained in close contact on this matter,' he added. India's Enduring Commitment to Africa Moving beyond the Middle East, Chatterjee also detailed India's deep and enduring partnership with Africa, which he described as 'millennia-old,' rooted in 'deep historical linkages, cultural exchanges, and vibrant people-to-people contacts.' He highlighted the presence of a 3.5 million-strong Indian diaspora in Africa, describing it as a 'living bridge' that contributes significantly to social and economic development across the continent. India's engagement with Africa, he explained, is framed by Prime Minister Modi's '10 guiding principles,' which emphasise Africa's own development agenda. 'Our approach is needs-based, inclusive, and designed to empower local communities, build capacities, and ensure long-term sustainability,' he said, drawing a clear contrast with extractive or exploitative models of cooperation. Chatterjee noted that India has significantly expanded its diplomatic footprint in Africa in recent years, establishing 17 new embassies and high commissions, bringing the total number of Indian missions on the continent to 46. Investing in People, Infrastructure, and Innovation India has also made education and capacity-building cornerstones of its Africa engagement. Over the past decade, more than 37,000 African professionals have been trained in India through the Indian Technical and Economic Cooperation (ITEC) and Indian Council for Cultural Relations (ICCR) programmes. Flagship educational institutions such as the Indian Institute of Technology in Zanzibar, the National Forensic Sciences University in Uganda, and Entrepreneurship Development Centres in Rwanda stand as tangible outcomes of this partnership. In addition, India has supported the establishment of numerous IT centres across the continent. On the infrastructure front, Chatterjee noted that India is currently involved in more than 200 development projects in Africa in sectors such as transportation, energy, agriculture, and water resource management. Over the last ten years alone, India has extended over $700 million in grant assistance to African countries. A Trusted Economic and Technological Partner Economically, India is now Africa's fourth-largest trading partner, with bilateral trade volumes nearing $100bn. Indian investments across the continent have reached approximately $75bn, spanning sectors including information technology, pharmaceuticals, automotive manufacturing, mining, and banking. India, Chatterjee noted, was also the first developing country to offer duty-free access to exports from Least Developed Countries (LDCs) through its Duty-Free Tariff Preference (DFTP) scheme, introduced in 2008. He expressed optimism about the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), describing it as a 'game-changer' with immense potential to integrate African economies more fully into the global trade system. India, he said, continues to advocate for stronger African representation in international institutions and supports Africa's participation in multilateral initiatives such as the International Solar Alliance, the Global Biofuel Alliance, the Coalition for Disaster Resilient Infrastructure, and the International Big Cat Alliance. 'As a trusted technology partner, India is ready to share its digital innovations like India Stack,' Chatterjee stated, citing examples of African nations already utilising UPI-based digital payments and national ID systems to promote financial inclusion. He added that India is also collaborating on the use of space technologies for precision agriculture, weather forecasting, and disaster preparedness. India's Global Ambition Rooted in Shared Growth In closing, Chatterjee reflected on India's internal transformation, noting its rise to become 'the world's fourth-largest economy,' driven by inclusive growth and digital innovation. From domestic development to global partnerships, he said, India remains guided by the ancient ethos of Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam—'The world is one family.'


Daily News Egypt
2 hours ago
- Daily News Egypt
Egypt remains one of Switzerland's most valued partners: Swiss ambassador
Egypt continues to be one of Switzerland's most valuable partners—economically, culturally, and geopolitically—according to Ambassador of Switzerland in Egypt, Andreas Baum. Whether through collaboration on green innovation, archaeological research, or migration cooperation, the bilateral relationship remains strong and multifaceted. 'We are committed to working hand in hand,' Ambassador Baum said. 'Even after 90 years of friendship, we are reminded that history brings both progress and pain. Ongoing human suffering, conflict, and violations of international law, such as those we witness today, challenge us all. Yet Switzerland, along with Egypt, true to their values, continues to uphold humanitarian principles—even amid the current turmoil in the region.' The ambassador made his remarks during a reception at Dahab Palace celebrating the 90th anniversary of the 1934 Friendship Treaty and the establishment of diplomatic relations between Switzerland and Egypt. Reflecting on the enduring ties between the two nations, Ambassador Baum remarked, 'When Switzerland and Egypt signed a treaty of friendship in 1934, I wonder if either side imagined we'd be commemorating it 90 years later—on an island in the Nile, surrounded by lotus flowers. And yet, here we are, and I couldn't be more delighted.' He described the evening as the conclusion of a year-long celebration marking 90 years of Swiss-Egyptian friendship. 'This is not a farewell party,' he added. 'On the contrary, it's more like renewing our vows.' The ambassador noted that the story of cooperation began well before 1934, tracing back to 1909 when Swiss companies opened a trade office in Alexandria. He highlighted milestones such as the 1929 commissioning of Swiss photographer Ed Bucha and the establishment of Switzerland's diplomatic presence in Cairo in 1935 as key moments in the evolving relationship. 'Diplomacy is about people and creativity,' Baum said, acknowledging the many researchers, artists, and entrepreneurs who have contributed to strengthening Swiss-Egyptian ties over the decades. He extended his thanks to all those who made the 90-year celebration possible. Looking to the future, the ambassador offered a hopeful vision: 'Here's to the next 90 years of friendship. May they be as rich, as resilient, and as beautifully unexpected as the first. And may the coming decades bring more progress, prosperity, and happiness to humanity—on a more sustainable planet, with less conflict and less suffering.' The event was attended by Ambassador Haitham Salah, Assistant Foreign Minister for Protocol, who represented Egypt's Minister of Foreign Affairs, along with several other ambassadors and dignitaries.


Daily News Egypt
8 hours ago
- Daily News Egypt
Egypt-Türkiye trade exchange approaches $9bn in 2024: FM Abdelatty
As part of ongoing efforts to strengthen Turkish investments in Egypt, Minister of Foreign Affairs and Immigration Badr Abdelatty met with a group of Turkish business leaders in Istanbul on the sidelines of the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation's ministerial meeting. During the meeting, Abdelatty underscored the growing economic ties between Egypt and Turkey, highlighting the significant progress in trade and investment cooperation. He announced that bilateral trade between the two countries reached nearly $9bn in 2024, with Turkey emerging as a key destination for Egyptian exports. Conversely, Egypt has become one of the leading African markets for Turkish goods. The Minister stressed the need for collaborative efforts from both governments and private sector stakeholders to achieve the target of raising bilateral trade to $15bn—a goal agreed upon by the political leaderships of both countries to deepen economic integration and serve shared interests. Abdelatty highlighted the importance of the Egypt-Türkiye free trade agreement, in force since 2005, as a key driver of trade growth. He also noted the potential to expand its scope and remove remaining barriers to trade to further enhance economic cooperation. Welcoming the rising volume of Turkish investments in Egypt, Abdelatty expressed Egypt's commitment to attracting more Turkish capital by leveraging its extensive network of trade agreements and the investor-friendly environment of the Suez Canal Economic Zone. He also pointed to the incentives and facilities available to foreign investors, affirming the government's resolve to address any challenges facing Turkish businesses. In this context, he cited the recent decision by the Egyptian Prime Minister to establish a dedicated unit to support Turkish investments and ensure smooth business operations in the country.