Not every apartment offered for short-term rental automatically qualifies for a tourism licence.
Under Egypt’s Holiday Home licensing framework, the unit must be suitable for receiving Egyptian or foreign guests and must meet specific standards relating to its location, entrance, access, equipment, cleanliness, safety, and guest comfort. The licensing system aims to regulate existing holiday accommodation and ensure an acceptable level of quality, security, safety, and service.
1. Location of the Unit : – The apartment must be located:
In a recognized tourist area or Within a distinguished residential compound or community in a suitable location.
The official definition covers a unit consisting of at least one room, a suite, or a villa located in an independent building or part of a building.
2. Entrance and Building Condition
The unit should preferably have an independent entrance.
A shared entrance may also be accepted, provided that a clear sign is installed showing:
The name of the licensed establishment;
The unit number;
The information in Arabic and at least one foreign language.
The entrance, floors, walls, and ceilings must be clean, properly maintained, and in good condition.
3. Lift Requirements
Where the unit is located from the second floor above ground level, a lift must generally be available.
The lift should:
Be clean and properly maintained;
Display a sign identifying the establishment and the floor on which it is located;
Have a valid fitness certificate issued by a consulting engineer;
Be covered by a periodic maintenance agreement.
4. Kitchen or Service Area
The unit must include a properly equipped service area or an open or closed kitchen.
The required equipment may include:
Washing machine
Cooker or hob
Refrigerator
Microwave
Dishwasher
Crockery, cutlery, glassware, and basic guest-service utensils
The kitchen and its equipment must be clean, operational, and suitable for guest use.
5. Guest Bedrooms
Each guest bedroom should be properly prepared for tourist accommodation and include:
One double bed or two separate beds
Access to a private bathroom, according to the applicable unit layout
A room number or distinctive room name displayed on the door
“Do Not Disturb” and “Please Clean the Room” signs
Air conditioning
Suitable pillows and bedding
At least one bedside table
A chair with back support
Television screen
Hotel minibar or small refrigerator
Adequate lighting, ventilation, storage, curtains, and other guest-comfort facilities
Further requirements may apply concerning bathrooms, fire and occupational safety, hygiene, linen, waste disposal, electrical installations, maintenance, guest records, and operating procedures.
Important Legal Point
Meeting the physical specifications alone does not automatically grant the license.
The owner or operator must also submit the required documents, notify the Ministry of Tourism and Antiquities electronically, complete the procedures for obtaining the Tourism Suitability Certificate, and pay the prescribed fees.
Before spending money on renovations or equipment, the unit’s location, ownership documents, building status, compound rules, and technical suitability should be reviewed to determine whether it can qualify for licensing.