Types Of Rental Properties in Egypt’s Prime Locations
Finding an Apartment|8 MIN READ|Updated on: 19 September 2025|Written by: Hossam Younes
Types Of Rental Properties in Egypt’s Prime Locations: Maadi, Zamalek & Katameya Heights
A complete guide to choosing the right rental in Cairo’s most sought‑after districts.
Cairo’s rental market offers incredible variety, but the mix changes dramatically from one prime neighborhood to another. In Maadi—especially Sarayat and Degla—you’ll find leafy streets and a balanced supply of villas and spacious apartments. Zamalek is all about river‑view apartments and elegant penthouses on Gezira Island. And Katameya Heights shines with luxury golf‑course villas and ground‑floor homes with private gardens. This guide focuses on the types of rental properties you can expect in these three areas—what they’re best for, who they suit, and how to choose with confidence.
Core Rental Types You’ll See
1) Apartments (Furnished / Semi‑Furnished / Unfurnished)
The most common urban choice across all three districts. Maadi and Zamalek feature classic, well‑proportioned layouts with balconies; Katameya Heights also offers premium apartments inside an exclusive, gated community. Furnished options suit short or medium stays, while unfurnished homes appeal to long‑term residents bringing their own furniture.
- Best for: Professionals, diplomats, small families.
- Look for: Quiet streets (Maadi Sarayat), Nile‑view floors (Zamalek), clubhouse access (Katameya Heights).
- Explore:Maadi Sarayat apartments · Zamalek Gezira apartments · Katameya Heights apartments
2) Villas & Standalone Homes
Villas dominate inside Katameya Heights and exist in select pockets of Maadi (notably Sarayat). Expect private gardens, multi‑car parking, and generous bedroom counts. In Zamalek, villas are rare; high‑rise buildings are the norm.
- Best for: Larger families, hosting, privacy seekers.
- Look for: Garden size, pool maintenance terms, proximity to clubs and international schools.
3) Ground‑Floor & Garden Units
Popular with families and pet owners, these combine apartment practicality with a private outdoor space. You’ll see them in Maadi and Katameya Heights far more often than in Zamalek.
- Best for: Young families, pets, indoor‑outdoor living.
- Explore: Ground floor in Katameya Heights
4) Penthouses & Nile‑View Residences
A Zamalek specialty. Upper floors with expansive terraces and panoramic river views. In Maadi, penthouses tend to be quieter, leafy‑view retreats; in Katameya Heights, rooftop spaces open over golf greens.
- Best for: Executives, entertainers, anyone prioritizing views.
- Explore: Zamalek Nile‑view penthouse
Neighborhood Snapshot: Lifestyle & Fit
| Area | Signature Rental Types | Who It Suits | Notable Advantages |
|---|---|---|---|
| Maadi | Apartments (furnished / semi / unfurnished), family villas, garden units | Diplomats, expats, families wanting a tranquil, walkable setting | Tree‑lined streets, international schools, diverse inventory · See Maadi apartments |
| Zamalek | Nile‑view apartments, classic high‑ceiling homes, penthouses | Urban professionals, embassy staff, art & culture lovers | Central location, boutique dining, premium views · Browse Zamalek rentals |
| Katameya Heights | Standalone villas, golf‑view homes, ground‑floor garden units, select apartments | Executives, larger families, privacy & amenities seekers | Gated community feel, golf & clubhouse lifestyle · View Katameya Heights |
Want a broader scan first? Explore all apartments for rent in Egypt or jump straight into our blog for neighborhood insights and rental tips.
Furnished vs. Semi‑Furnished vs. Unfurnished
The furnishing level significantly affects convenience, budget, and lease expectations:
- Furnished: Move‑in ready; ideal for shorter contracts or corporate housing. Confirm inventory lists and appliance brands.
- Semi‑Furnished: Typically includes kitchen units, major appliances, and wardrobes. A sweet spot for mid‑to‑long stays.
- Unfurnished: Maximum flexibility for long‑term residents bringing their own furniture; usually better value over multi‑year terms.
Tip: In golf compounds like Katameya Heights, maintenance of gardens and pools may be handled by specialized teams—clarify inclusions in your lease.
Lease Essentials in Prime Cairo Districts
- Contract length: 6–12 months are common; premium villas can require longer commitments.
- Security deposit: Typically one or two months’ rent; ask about deduction conditions and restoration clauses.
- Services & utilities: Clarify who pays for club access, internet, water, gas, electricity, and compound fees.
- Pet policy: Maadi is pet‑friendly in many buildings; confirm policies in Zamalek towers and gated compounds.
- Inspections: Record meter readings and create a condition checklist at handover.
How to Choose Between Maadi, Zamalek & Katameya Heights
Maadi: Calm, Community, Choice
Maadi (see Wikipedia overview) combines embassies, international schools, and a village‑like feel. Sarayat offers elegant villas and wide streets; Degla brings newer apartment stock with easy access to everyday amenities. If you plan to cycle or walk, Maadi’s tree cover and pavement width are a rare Cairo advantage.
Zamalek: Island Living & Nile Views
Zamalek (see Wikipedia) is a cultured island enclave with galleries, embassies, and boutique dining. Inventory leans toward stylish apartments and dramatic penthouses—great for central commutes and city life, with premium pricing on high floors and river views.
Katameya Heights: Space, Privacy & Amenities
Part of New Cairo’s gated‑community network (see New Cairo), Katameya Heights is synonymous with standalone villas, golf vistas, and clubhouse living. It’s ideal if you value privacy, recreational facilities, and quick access to East Cairo business hubs.
Checklist: Shortlist the Right Property Type
- Prioritize layout over sheer square meters—flow and storage matter for daily comfort.
- Verify noise profile (street vs. courtyard) and elevator reliability in older Zamalek buildings.
- In villas, confirm garden/pool maintenance, pest control schedules, and irrigation systems.
- Ask for power backup info and AC maintenance history in any premium rental.
- For furnished units, request a furniture/appliance inventory attached to the lease.
People Also Ask — FAQ
What types of rentals dominate each area?
Maadi offers a balanced mix of apartments and villas; Zamalek focuses on high‑rise apartments and penthouses; Katameya Heights is known for villas, golf‑view homes, and select apartments.
Is furnished or unfurnished better for long stays?
For multi‑year leases, unfurnished or semi‑furnished is usually more cost‑effective and lets you customize interiors. Furnished is perfect for short to mid‑term convenience.
Can I find pet‑friendly rentals?
Yes—many Maadi and Katameya Heights properties are pet‑friendly. Always confirm building or compound rules in advance, especially in Zamalek towers.
Where can I browse current listings?
Start with curated pages like Maadi apartments, Zamalek rentals, and Katameya Heights properties.
Helpful Background (External Resources)
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