Swing by the Red Sea in Hurghada. A round at Madinat Makadi Golf Resort is one of those Egypt golf days where scenery matters almost as much as your swing, with 9- or 18-hole play on a championship-length course setup.

I like the way the course delivers Red Sea views right from the greens, and I also really value the practical practice time included via the free range token before you start. It’s a simple format that lets you focus on your game instead of logistics.

One consideration: the 36 HCP minimum required for the championship course can limit who plays the longest holes, so you’ll need to plan around the course option that fits your handicap.

Key things to know before you book

• Red Sea views from the course help make even routine holes feel special.
• 9 or 18 holes lets you match the day to your fitness and focus level.
• Championship course length (6880 m) is the big draw for serious golfers.
• Range token includes 34 balls so you can warm up properly.
• Small group of up to 6 means less waiting around and quicker setup.
• Handicap rules matter: 36+ for the championship; higher-handicap golfers go to the Executive course.

Where Madinat Makadi Golf Resort sits in Hurghada’s golf scene

Madinat Makadi is a great choice if you want your Hurghada day to feel more like “sport time” than “tour bus time.” You’re in Egypt’s Red Sea Governorate, and the whole vibe is very golf-first: meet at the golf shop, get checked in, then get out there.

What I like most is that this isn’t framed as a beginner-only pitch. The format is clean: you pick 9 or 18 holes, you practice briefly with the included range token, and then you play your round. That makes it feel fair for everyone, from someone working on tempo to someone who wants the full test of the championship course.

Also, this is ideal if you care about atmosphere. The course is designed so you’re not just watching fairways disappear into sand. You get sightlines to the Red Sea and also toward nearby mountains, which makes the day feel more “set” than generic.

The big decision: 9 holes vs 18 holes at Madinat Makadi

Your main choice is whether you play 9 or 18 holes, and it’s not just a time-saver.

9-hole round: the pressure-free option

If you’re short on time (or you’re traveling and don’t want a long day), 9 holes is a smart move. You still get the course experience, but you’re less likely to fade halfway through. It also works well if you’re trying to dial in a specific part of your game—like wedge distances or putting speed—without turning it into a marathon.

18-hole round: the full championship test

If you can handle the full round, 18 holes is where the resort’s golf identity shows up. This is the option that connects you to the 18-hole championship course, including the course length detail that serious players pay attention to.

And if you’re thinking in terms of effort vs payoff: 18 holes gives you more chances to recover from mistakes. You’ll also have more holes where the wind and sun (and your own rhythm) can become factors—basically, you get a more realistic golf “day” rather than a quick session.

Championship course length (6880 m) and why it matters for real golfers

The resort’s headline is the 18-hole championship course, described as the longest in the region at 6880 m. That number isn’t just marketing. It generally translates to more course management decisions: longer carries you must plan for, more need to control shot shape, and more moments where club selection has consequences.

If you’re a golfer who likes strategy, that’s great. If you’re more casual, you can still enjoy it—but you’ll want to be honest about your stamina and shot consistency.

Handicap rule: 36 HCP minimum for championship play

Here’s the key part you must plan around: to play on the Championship Course, a handicap of 36 or better (minimum 36 HCP required) is stated. You also need proof of handicap prior to play.

If you don’t meet that, the setup still lets you play: golfers with higher handicaps are invited to play on the Executive Course instead. Practically, this means you’ll avoid feeling like you were put on the wrong “difficulty level.” The resort is trying to match players to a course that fits.

My advice: double-check your handicap paperwork before you go, because proof is explicitly required.

The included range token: warm up the right way (and how many balls)

Before you tee off, you get one free range token. The token is redeemable for a basket of balls for the driving range, and the basket includes 34 balls.

That’s a useful number. You’re not stuck with just a token gesture of a warm-up, and you’re not getting so many balls that you waste time blasting max-power shots you can’t control later. In practice, 34 balls is enough to hit:

• a few practice swings to find timing,
• some mid-range shots to tune contact,
• and a handful of confident, repeatable strikes before your round starts.

If you’re the type who likes to start with a groove, this is a good plan. If you tend to overpractice when you see balls, keep it simple: don’t turn the warm-up into a separate workout.

Red Sea views: nice to look at, but also a golf factor

Yes, the views are stunning—but the practical value is how those views change your focus. When you can see the Red Sea from the course, you’re dealing with a brighter, more open environment than many inland courses. That can affect:

• glare on the ball,
• how your eyes read distance,
• and how “busy” the background feels when you’re lining up putts or approach shots.

What I like here is that the course doesn’t hide the scenery behind a foggy distance. You get visible Red Sea and mountain scenery directly from the playing experience. You’re not just looking at postcards after your round—you’re watching it while you play.

If you’re sensitive to bright light, bring sunglasses and use a cap. Small steps like that make it easier to keep your routine.

Facilities, course maintenance, and what the mixed feedback tells you

Overall, the resort earns strong praise for a polished on-course experience: neat grounds, friendly staff, and smooth help around tee times. One score emphasized good facility upkeep and friendly attention, while another highlighted helpful, easy-to-handle coordination.

That said, not every experience is perfect. One rating mentioned the course needs some TLC. The most sensible way to interpret that: the experience can be very good overall, but there may be small maintenance issues you could notice if you’re picky about condition details.

So here’s the balanced expectation-setting: plan for a solid day with good support. If you’re the type who pays attention to surface-level upkeep, keep your expectations realistic and assume you might see minor wear in places.

Trolleys, carts, and how to think about getting around

Your package includes a free trolley for walking golfers. That matters if you plan to walk and keep your game consistent—walking helps you stay loose, and it keeps your routine steady.

What’s not included: golf carts. So if you prefer to use a cart rather than walking, you’ll need to plan for that extra option.

There’s one built-in assist: the package includes a 20% discount on a buggy for 18 holes on the Championship course. That discount is specifically tied to the championship round, which suggests the resort expects more carts/buggies to be requested when players do the full 18.

My advice: if you’re doing 18 holes and you think you’ll want a buggy, factor this discount into your budgeting and decide early. It’s easier to plan gear and movement once you know how you’ll get around.

Timing and group size: less waiting, more tee time

This is built for a practical experience: the round lasts about 3 hours, and starting times depend on availability. You also get a small group experience, limited to 6 participants.

That group size detail is more important than it sounds. In big groups, your day can get chopped into waiting moments. With a smaller group, you typically get:

• quicker check-in,
• fewer delays,
• and a smoother transition from meeting point to starting play.

Host or greeter is listed as English and Arabic, which makes it easier to get your questions answered without awkward back-and-forth.

Meeting point and what to do when you arrive

You meet at the golf shop. That’s straightforward, but it also means you’ll want to arrive a bit early so you’re not rushing while you’re trying to settle your handicap proof and confirm your course option.

Because hotel pickup and drop-off aren’t included, you’ll need to get yourself to the golf resort on your own. If you’re staying at a nearby hotel, you might find the broader golf resort staff can sometimes help with transfers, but that’s not part of the standard inclusions listed here. Best move: confirm directly with your accommodation or the golf resort whether they can arrange support for your specific location.

Price vs value: is $74 fair for a 3-hour golf round?

At about $74 per person for a 3-hour block, this pricing can be good value if you treat it as a complete golf session rather than just “a ticket.”

You’re getting:

• the round (9 or 18 holes based on your choice),
• a range token with 34 balls (actual practice value),
• and a free trolley if you walk.

Then there’s the extra detail that changes the value equation: the championship course is length-heavy, and the package is designed so you can target that longer play if your handicap qualifies. For golfers who meet the 36 HCP minimum, the round is effectively giving you access to a more serious course challenge with fewer “pay extra just to get warmed up” costs.

Where you should watch the value: food and drinks are not included. So if you’re budgeting for a full day, bring water and consider a snack plan near the course so you don’t get stuck buying refreshments at the last minute.

Who should book this golf session (and who might skip it)

This is a strong fit for:

• golfers who want a real 9- or 18-hole session in Hurghada,
• players who enjoy course strategy and want the long 6880 m championship experience,
• travelers who like small groups and direct golf-focused service,
• anyone who can handle warm, bright conditions and appreciates the Red Sea scenery while playing.

It’s not a match for everyone. The activity notes it is not suitable for pregnant women and people over 95 years. Also, the handicap requirement for championship play means you should only expect the longest course if you have the qualifying handicap and proof.

What you won’t get (so plan smart)

This package doesn’t include:

• hotel pickup and drop-off,
• golf carts (walking trolley is included),
• food and drinks.

That shapes how you should prepare. If you’re doing 18 holes, think ahead about hydration and sun protection. If you’re arriving without a transfer arranged, plan transportation to the golf shop meeting point in advance.

Also, because proof of handicap is required, don’t treat this as an off-the-cuff “let’s try golf” stop.

My booking advice: should you choose Madinat Makadi in Hurghada?

I’d book this if your goal is a clean, golf-first day with a real course challenge. The small group size, the included range warm-up (34 balls), and the chance to play 9 or 18 holes make it feel structured and fair. And if you meet the 36 HCP minimum, the championship setup and the 6880 m length are exactly the kind of detail serious golfers look for.

I’d think twice if:

• you’re hoping the championship course is open to any skill level (it isn’t),
• you don’t have handicap proof available,
• or you need food/drinks bundled into the price.

If you’re the right match, this is an easy way to turn a Hurghada day into a true golf session—one where the Red Sea isn’t just scenery afterthought, it’s part of the experience while you play.

FAQ

How long is the golf experience at Madinat Makadi?

The duration is about 3 hours.

Do I choose 9 holes or 18 holes?

Yes. You can select either the 9-hole program or the 18-hole program.

Is the championship course included in every option?

To play on the Championship Course, you need a minimum handicap of 36, and proof of handicap is required prior to play. Guests who don’t meet the requirement are invited to play on the Executive Course.

What is included with the ticket?

Included items are the 9 or 18-hole rounds (depending on your option), 1 free range token, and a free trolley for walking golfers. There is also a 20% discount on a buggy for 18 holes on the Championship course.

Is a golf cart included?

No. Golf carts are not included.

How many golf balls do I get with the range token?

The range token can be redeemed for a basket of golf balls with 34 balls.

Where do I meet for the activity?

Meet at the golf shop.

Is hotel pickup and drop-off included?

No, hotel pickup and drop-off are not included.