In the heart of the Red Sea coast, where the turquoise waters of Hurghada meet the golden sands, lies the story of a man who turned a modest beginning into one of the region’s most powerful hospitality empires. Kamel Abou-Aly, founder and chairman of Pickalbatros Hotels & Resorts, has been named by Forbes Middle East among the Top 100 Travel and Tourism Leaders in 2025, securing the 35th spot. His empire, now valued at around $5 billion, is not only reshaping Egypt’s tourism industry but also pushing it firmly onto the global tourism map.
From One Resort To A Regional Giant
Abou-Aly’s journey started in 1992, when he opened the first Beach Albatros Resort in Hurghada. At the time, Egypt’s tourism sector was still fragmented, challenged by political and economic turbulence. Yet, he firmly believed in tourism as a driver of the Egyptian economy, capable of reviving communities and attracting global attention.
Today, the group manages nearly 40 hotels and resorts across Egypt and Morocco, offering more than 18,000 rooms by mid-2025. What sets Abou-Aly apart is his strategy of reviving struggling projects and turning them into successful ventures, rather than merely following the traditional path of global franchise agreements.
2025: A Landmark Year Of Expansion
The year 2025 has been particularly significant for Pickalbatros. The group launched three major projects, with a combined investment estimated between $250 million and $300 million:
Albatros Makadi Resort in Hurghada – February 2025.
Palais Des Roses Agadir in Morocco – May 2025.
SunGo Club Hotel in Marrakesh – to open in September 2025.
These projects underline the group’s ambition to expand regionally while consolidating its dominance in Egypt’s core tourism market.
Numbers That Tell A Story
According to Forbes, the group welcomed nearly 1.5 million guests in 2024, with German tourists representing the largest share. Looking ahead, Abou-Aly’s five-year strategy includes adding another 5,000 rooms, signaling continued growth and sustained investor confidence.
Sustainability And Innovation At The Core
Abou-Aly’s empire isn’t only about size. It is also about sustainability and innovation. Most of his hotels are certified with the Green Star label, implementing eco-friendly practices such as renewable energy solutions, waste reduction initiatives, and environmentally conscious operations.
Behind the scenes, the group has partnered with Munich-based TrustYou, a global leader in guest feedback management, to monitor reviews and respond instantly to guest needs. Moreover, negotiations are underway with a leading international management company to introduce advanced hospitality solutions while maintaining Pickalbatros’ unique identity. The deal is expected to be announced before the end of 2025.
—
Eyes On New Markets
While Egypt remains the backbone of his business, Abou-Aly is already eyeing expansion into new markets, including:
The UAE, with its status as a tourism and business hub.
Saudi Arabia, amid the boom of Vision 2030’s tourism projects.
Portugal, as a gateway into Europe.
Tunisia, a growing Mediterranean destination.
This regional expansion is part of a larger ambition to position Pickalbatros as a regional hospitality powerhouse, capable of competing with global giants.
Beyond Hospitality: A Multifaceted Role
Abou-Aly’s influence stretches beyond hotels. He is active in Egypt’s film industry, serves as chairman of El Masry Football Club, and heads the Red Sea Investors Association. These roles underline his broader impact on Egypt’s economy, culture, and sports.
Philosophy Of Leadership
In his words to Forbes:
> “I get excited every time I see a project move from an abstract idea into a successful investment. That is what always inspires me to achieve more. The growth of the group is built on trust and loyalty, and on a simple concept: every guest should feel as comfortable as if they were at home.”
This philosophy—rooted in simplicity, trust, and loyalty—explains why his brand resonates strongly with both regional and international visitors.
Standing Among Regional Titans
When compared with Arab hospitality magnates such as Prince Alwaleed Bin Talal, who built his presence through global partnerships with brands like Four Seasons, or Hussain Sajwani of Dubai’s Damac, who leveraged real estate and luxury alliances, Abou-Aly’s approach stands out. He chose to build a homegrown Egyptian brand that gradually expanded abroad. This path, while more challenging, reflects a uniquely national vision: to project Egypt’s tourism strength onto the global stage.
