Serviced Apartments - Invest Smart in New Cairo Living

Over the past decade, Egypt has witnessed a transformation in its real estate offerings. From traditional apartments to innovative mixed-use developments, the market now welcomes a new player: the serviced apartment. Combining the privacy of a home with the services of a hotel, serviced apartments are fast becoming the preferred choice for both residents and investors in key areas like New Cairo and the New Administrative Capital.

This guide takes a comprehensive look at what a serviced apartment truly is, how it differs from furnished and hotel apartments, why global and local demand is rising, and why this property type is now one of the most profitable real estate investments in Egypt.

What is the meaning of serviced apartment?  And What is included in a serviced apartment?

A serviced apartment is a fully furnished residential unit that offers hotel-like amenities and professional management. Unlike a regular apartment, it’s move-in ready and includes:

• Housekeeping services
• On-demand maintenance
• 24/7 security and reception
• Laundry and dry cleaning (optional)
• Concierge and hospitality services

These units are usually operated by specialized property management companies, ensuring consistency in quality, maintenance, and guest experience.

Global Origins and Growth of serviced apartment:

The concept of serviced apartments emerged in the UK during the 1950s to serve traveling businessmen and expatriates needing long-term stays. Over time, the model spread to major global cities including London, New York, Dubai, Singapore, and Hong Kong, evolving into a hospitality sub-sector of its own.

Leading international operators include:

• The Ascott Limited
• Frasers Hospitality
• Staybridge Suites
• Oakwood Worldwide
• Bird nest

According to reports by Savills and JLL, global demand for serviced apartments grew by more than 30% between 2018 and 2023, especially across Asia and Europe, fueled by:

• Lower cost compared to extended hotel stays
• Flexibility for corporate relocation
• The rise of remote work and "work-from-anywhere" culture
• Travelers seeking more space and privacy than hotels provide

Types of Serviced Apartments:

• Studio apartments: Best suited for independent travelers and remote professionals
• One-bedroom units: Best for couples or long-term stays
• Family apartments (2–3 bedrooms): Fully equipped and spacious
• Luxury serviced apartments: Five-star interiors with premium views and amenities

Who Typically Chooses Serviced Apartments?

    Serviced apartments cater to a wide range of profiles. This includes:

• Expats and diplomats relocating for work
• Startups and business travelers requiring a flexible base in Cairo
• Medical tourists coming for extended treatments
• Retirees and seasonal visitors seeking convenience without the hassle of homeownership
• Local investors looking for hands-free rental income

As Cairo develops into a regional hub for business and lifestyle, demand from each of these segments continues to grow year after year.

What is the difference between Serviced Apartments, Furnished Apartments and Hotel?

Let’s compare the three most common types of residential accommodation:

1. Furnishing & Fit-out

• Serviced Apartment: Modern furniture, full kitchen, living space, and utilities
• Furnished Apartment: Varies greatly by owner; often basic or outdated
• Hotel Apartment: Offers basic accommodation only

2. Stay Duration

• Serviced Apartment: Flexible (days to months)
• Furnished: Mid-to-long term (1 month+)
• Hotel: Short term (nights to a week)

3. Services Included

• Serviced Apartment: Partial or full hotel-style services
• Furnished: None or minimal
• Hotel: Full hotel services

4. Privacy

• Serviced Apartment: High privacy with professional services
• Furnished: High, but no service control
• Hotel: Low to medium

5. Investment Return

• Serviced Apartment: 8–12% annually, depending on location
• Furnished: 4–6% annually
• Hotel: Not applicable (non-owned)

6. Target Audience

• Serviced Apartment: Business travelers, expats, corporate clients
• Furnished: Locals, students, temp workers
• Hotel: Tourists and short-stay guests

7. Market Value Growth

• Serviced Apartment: Higher appreciation and faster resale
• Furnished: Slower resale potential
• Hotel: N/A

8. Operational Management

• Serviced Apartment: Run by a professional operator with defined standards
• Furnished: Managed by owner or agent
• Hotel: Fully operated by hotel staff

9. Availability in Egypt

• Serviced Apartments: Growing in New Cairo, New Administrative Capital, Sheikh Zayed, North Coast
• Furnished: Widely available in older districts
• Hotel Apartments: Found in downtown and high-end zones

10. Technology & Infrastructure

• Serviced Apartment: Smart access, high-speed internet, booking apps, modern tech
• Furnished: Basic utilities
• Hotel: Closed hotel ecosystem

Why Serviced Apartments Are Booming in Egypt?

1. Business & tourism surge in areas like New Cairo, NAC, and the North Coast
2. High ROI: Rental yields for serviced apartments exceed standard residential properties by up to 30%
3. Limited supply and rising buyer interest due to the evolving expectations of today’s tenants.
4. Lifestyle alignment: Especially among Gen Z, digital workers, and expats
5. Corporate housing demand: For foreign employees and consultants
6. Ease of rental & resale through hotel-style operators and digital platforms
7. Developer-backed management services boost investor confidence
8. Premium location appeal: Serviced apartments often occupy top-tier zones with integrated commercial and entertainment access

Legal & Ownership Considerations for serviced apartment in Egypt:

• Full Ownership Rights: Many serviced apartments in Egypt are sold as freehold properties, granting buyers full control over resale, leasing, and usage.
• Flexible Leasing Options: Property managers typically offer both short-term and long-term leasing structures, allowing owners to tailor rental strategies to seasonal demand or personal use.
• Centralized Rental Systems: Several projects operate pooled rental programs where all units are managed collectively. This ensures more stable income distribution and less risk from vacancy gaps.
• Tax Structure Advantages: Depending on how the unit is registered (as residential, commercial, or hospitality asset), owners may benefit from streamlined tax obligations, lower operational taxes, and simplified revenue reporting under Egyptian investment regulations.

Common FAQs:

• Are serviced apartments more expensive than regular flats?

Yes, typically by 10–20%, but the premium covers professional management, time savings, and ready-to-move-in standards.

• What’s the difference between Airbnb and serviced apartments?

Airbnb is peer-to-peer with varying quality; serviced apartments offer consistency, security, and a brand-managed experience.

• Can I resell my serviced apartment later?

Absolutely — they’re highly sought after in the Egyptian market due to limited supply and high rental return, especially when managed by reputable operators.

• Are serviced apartments good for families?

Yes, many projects offer 2- or 3-bedroom serviced units with full kitchens and living areas, ideal for long stays with children.

• What’s the average rental income from a serviced apartment in Egypt?

It varies by location and operator, but in New Cairo, monthly rents for serviced units range from EGP 25,000 to 45,000, depending on the size and amenities.

• Can foreigners own serviced apartments in Egypt?

Yes. Egypt allows foreign ownership in many zones including New Cairo and the NAC, subject to some administrative conditions. Many developers assist buyers with legal setup and registration.

serviced apartments for sale in Cairo:

TO-GTHER Project in New Cairo
TO-GTHER by Golden View Developments is a prime example of income-generating serviced apartments in Egypt. Located in New Cairo’s South Academy,

this mixed-use development integrates:

• Residential serviced apartments
• A hotel operated by Hilton Garden Inn
• A commercial mall and office spaces

Key features include:

• Golden location: near Police Mosque and Cairo Festival City
• Flexible unit types: studios to family-sized units
• Fully managed: by 10+ global hospitality brands
• Investment-ready: high occupancy rates, hassle-free returns

If you're looking for serviced apartments for sale in New Cairo, this project offers a one-of-a-kind opportunity.

Final Thoughts

Serviced apartments are redefining how people live, stay, and invest in Egypt. With premium convenience, professional services, and unmatched flexibility, they represent a high-potential asset for both local and international investors.

Now is the time to invest in a property that works for you — even when you're not using it.

Register now to explore your options with TO-GTHER.