Golfers Protest New Fees

Since the El Gouna Golf Club informed residents that the annual golf pass has been increased by 30% in Euro, many residents have been up in arms. Emails and social media posts on the subject have risen. 

The newly announced Resident Annual pass prices including 30% increase are as follows:

Individual  1 year :

El Gouna Golf (18 holes)  € 1,450

Ancient Sands Golf (9 holes): € 950

Both € 2,200 

Individual  6 months : 

El Gouna Golf (18 holes)  € 800

Ancient Sands Golf (9 holes): € 550

Both € 1,200

The Gouna Golfing Community  thinks this increase is unjustified, given the large increase in the value of the Euro vs the Egyptian pound. In particular, it is hard to understand why not have an EGP price as in all commercial activities in El Gouna. They argue that the new rates are higher than golf clubs in Europe and much higher than Makadi and Soma Bay.

Moreover some Golfers spend up to 6 months non  consecutive in El Gouna, whereas only a 6 month consecutive fee is offered. Golfers are asking for a week or month membership.  Other suggestions were 5 round or 10 round packages (such as Pay for 10 but play 11) etc. or else the fees are too high.

It was the view of some sources that the better option for the golf club would be to attract golf lovers from Europe with targeted campaigns, selling the pleasures of golfing in El Gouna. 

The Gouna Owners Club (GOC), an association of owners of property in El Gouna, has taken up the cause and pressed Golf Club management for a meeting. The meeting was eventually held by GOC representatives and Mr. Mahmoud El Baroudi GM El Gouna and Mr. Tony Aboujaoud, consultant. The meeting while not conclusive, resulted in a promise by Gouna Management to come up with proposals to enhance the quality and attractiveness of Golfing in El Gouna.