New development springs up on ancient sands

One of the world’s largest luxury resort developers is creating the ultimate sporting complex on the Egyptian coast.

The private gated residential and golf resort offering lavish apartments from less than £107,000* is the latest haven to be constructed in the magnificent desert setting of award-winning El Gouna.

Built by a subsidiary of Orascom Development Holding (ODH), in conjunction with IFB Resort Developers, the Ancient Sands Resort will open its first phase of properties in December 2011.

The new development is set to enhance the world-class facilities available in El Gouna, a Red Sea destination that is becoming increasingly popular with Brits and that offers its residents low-income tax and no inheritance tax.

Ancient Sands will be situated just moments from the coastline and marina and will provide an array of opulent villas, apartments and townhouses for rent and purchase.

It will also offer a variety of new facilities, including an 18-hole par 72 championship golf course designed by world renowned golf architect Karl Litten, a tranquil spa treatment centre, swimming pools, a plush Golf Club Estate House, restaurants and chic bars.

“We are excited to be offering a development in a market that is emerging and has such strong growth potential”, says Jeremy Sturgess, IFB Executive Chairman.

“Creating Ancient Sands Resort provides us with the opportunity to work with Egypt's market leaders in property development, Orascom, to create a resort that is the best the Egyptian Red Sea Coast has to offer. It also allows us to offer an off-plan development that has the benefit of being part of an existing resort town.”

El Gouna is a year-round destination that is spread across unspoilt islands, lagoons and ten kilometres of white sandy beach.

It offers first-class amenities, is home to award-winning architecture and is renowned as Egypt’s most environmentally friendly resort.

“Ancient Sands is a welcome addition to El Gouna. It will be built to uncompromising standards to provide a unique experience for all and will add to our growing multicultural community”, says Mayar Abdel Aziz, VP Destinations Marketing, ODH.

* This is based on the current exchange rate of £1 to $1.63 on 14 July 2009

For more information visit orascomhd.com, elgouna.com