| What the star says | What it indicates | What it does not tell you |
|---|---|---|
| Official rating | ministry criteria: location, room size, cleanliness, facilities | age of rooms, quality of meals |
| Stars on Booking | the hotel's or platform's rating | a recent inspection |
| "7 stars" | a sales argument | no official status |
| Traveller score | recent reviews with the number of reviews | a stay like yours |
How to read the stars
A rule of thumb heard among travellers: an Egyptian five-star often compares with a European four-star for upkeep. It is not an official rule, just a benchmark. The ministry announced updated criteria with the world tourism organisation and the use of guest feedback; check the room's renovation date rather than the number of stars.
Choosing an all-inclusive
Reviews of resorts are mixed: people praise the nearby beach and the entertainment, but some note uneven buffets. Before booking, read what is included (local or imported drinks, à la carte restaurants, beach, reef), the renovation date and the last three months of reviews. Compare on Booking for Hurghada. To pick an area, see Hurghada or Marsa Alam and where to stay in Marsa Alam.
FAQ
Is an Egyptian five-star worth a European five-star? Not necessarily: read recent reviews.
Do "7-star" hotels exist? Not in the official rating.
What should I check first? Renovation date, beach or reef, meals included, recent scores.
The Hurghada Authority editorial team, 30 October 2026.
