FAQs

Question

Some quick facts about El Gouna

Answer

1. It’s a resort town spanning over 10 km of pristine Red Sea coast, with lagoons throughout 2. It’s 25 km from the city of Hurghada. 3. It’s a 4 hour flight from most European cities and around a 4 hour drive from Cairo 5. The architecture throughout is inspired by traditional Egyptian homes in the countryside and Upper Egypt 5. It was the first destination in the Middle East and Africa to receive the Global Green Award, which is given by the UN to cities making substantial efforts, progress and improvements in the field of environmental sustainability

Question

When should I RSVP By?

Answer

To help us with our planning, please RSVP to the events as soon as possible. However, the deadline is February 20, 2026. This date isn't arbitrary; we need to provide the venue, wedding planner, and vendors with an accurate guest count in a timely manner, and we hope you can understand. If you cannot RSVP by February 20, 2026 due to extenuating circumstances, please let us know.

Question

Do I need a visa to travel to Egypt?

Answer

Yes. Canadian passport holders can obtain an electronic visa prior to travel or upon arrival in Egypt. We recommend applying in advance of travel. Be careful, many companies impersonate the government visa portal. The correct eVisa portal can be accessed here: https://visa2egypt.gov.eg/ Guests of other nationalities are kindly advised to check their specific country’s entry requirements and ensure that all necessary visas are obtained prior to travel.

Question

Which airport should we fly into?

Answer

If you are traveling internationally or flying within Egypt (Cairo) please book your flight to Hurghada International Airport, which is approximately a 45-60 minute drive to El Gouna. We strongly recommend pre-booking your airport transfer or taxi in advance. If you are staying at a hotel, you may also arrange for hotel pickup prior to arrival, which is often the most seamless option. It is very important to schedule your transfer ahead of time, as the airport can become extremely busy and on-arrival taxi prices may increase significantly. Pre-booking is hassle-free and ensures a smooth, stress-free arrival, compared to arranging transportation once you land.

Question

Where should I stay?

Answer

The two main areas in El Gouna are Abu Tig Marina and Downtown, that’s where most of the restaurants, nightlife, shops and beach bars/pool clubs are. You’ll find a handful of hotels in both areas, but the bigger resorts have their own real estate and beachfront in El Gouna. The rest of the town is mainly residential, divided into different neighborhoods on lagoons. Ok, cool. But still, where should you stay? This totally depends on personal preference. Here are your options: A big resort hotel like Movenpick, Sheraton or Steigenberger (pros: they have lots of activities for both adults and kids, and have pools, beachfront and restaurants, meaning you don’t have to leave your resort unless you want to). A hotel on Abu Tig Marina (pros: being in walking distance of the marina’s restaurants and nightlife. The hotels range from 3 star to 5 star, and the ones that don’t have a pool or beachfront are given access to Moods and Marina Beach on the marina). A hotel in Downtown (pros: you’re close to the restaurants and cafes of Downtown, and yet are simultaneously on a lagoon). An exclusive, private (but pricey) boutique hotel like Casa Cook. An apartment/villa rental, either through Airbnb (pros: it’s your own place and some have private pools). Each option has its advantages, but it depends on your personal circumstances. And we can say with confidence, that there’s no *bad* place to stay in Gouna.

Question

Can I bring a plus one?

Answer

If you've received a plus one, they'll be specifically addressed within the subject line of the invitation. Otherwise we ask that only the name people in the invitation are in attendance. Thank you for understanding.

Question

Getting Around & Transportation in El Gouna

Answer

The thing we love about Gouna is that there’s enough space to never feel crowded, but at the same time it’s contained so that things are never too far from anything else. Our favourite way to get around in Gouna is by tuktuk. This is a subsidized service allowing you to go anywhere within Gouna for just 1 USD or 1 EUR. Other options include Uber, Taxi, a car service, shuttle bus, car rental (or bike if you’re the athletic type, good for you!).

Question

Is there a wedding registry?

Answer

Your presence is the greatest gift we could ask for. As this is a destination wedding, we truly do not expect gifts. However, for those who wish to honor us with a gift, a cash contribution would be sincerely appreciated, as it will help us avoid the need to transport physical items back home.

Question

Is the wedding outside?

Answer

Yes! As the sun will be shining both the ceremony & reception will be outside. Please make sure to check the weather, dress appropriately, and keep hydrated throughout the day.

Question

Will I need to exchange currency?

Answer

Egypt’s official currency is the Egyptian Pound (EGP), and most everyday transactions are done in local currency. While many hotels, larger restaurants, and shops accept major credit and debit cards (Visa and Mastercard), cash is widely used, especially for taxis, markets, small vendors, tipping, and many local services. We recommend getting your EGP pounds in advance of travelling to Egypt.

Question

What if I have a dietary restriction?

Answer

Please let Mustafa or Sona know well in advance if you have any dietary restrictions or food allergies. This will allow us to coordinate directly with the hotel executive chef to ensure your needs are thoughtfully accommodated. Your comfort and enjoyment are very important to us.