Garnest, a platform specializing in vacation rental bookings, is planning to expand across the Egyptian market after attracting more than 5,000 customers within its first two months of launch, while the number of accommodation units listed on the platform has surpassed 500.
Expansion Strategy
Ahmed Fazara, Founder of Garnest, said the platform aims to grow its customer base to 100,000 and increase the number of listed accommodation units to around 10,000 as part of its expansion strategy in Egypt’s vacation rental market.
Fazara explained that Garnest currently operates across Egyptian governorates and tourist destinations, allowing users to search for and book vacation accommodations based on the destination they plan to visit, rather than limiting searches to a specific city or area.
Accommodation Options
The platform features a range of accommodation options, including chalets, holiday units, serviced apartments, apartments, rooms, and vacation homes. Users can access information on each property, including pricing, available amenities, and availability dates.
According to Fazara, Garnest’s model allows users to start their search from the destination or tourist attraction they intend to visit, and then explore available accommodations nearby. The approach is designed to simplify trip planning and connect accommodation choices directly with the tourist destination.
Tourists visiting Egypt
In addition to serving local customers, the platform is targeting tourists visiting Egypt by enabling them to book accommodation in advance near the landmarks and tourist destinations they plan to explore.
Fazara revealed that Garnest is also expanding the range of services available through the platform to include activities and services associated with travel, such as photography sessions, tours, tour guides, and transportation services. The company is also developing an interactive map to help users discover accommodations, attractions, and nearby services around their chosen destination.
Property Details
On the supply side, the platform allows accommodation owners and property managers to list their units and add photos, property details, prices, amenities, and availability dates. This is intended to help them reach customers looking for accommodation, both from the Egyptian market and among international visitors.
Fazara said the company plans to expand into Gulf markets in 2027, following efforts to strengthen its presence in Egypt and grow the number of customers, listed units, and service providers on the platform.
The expansion strategy aims to take Garnest’s model into new regional markets, building on the platform’s experience in Egypt, where it began by covering a range of governorates and tourist destinations.
Entrepreneurial Journey
The launch of Garnest marks another step in Fazara’s entrepreneurial journey. He previously worked on and launched ventures in the retail and healthtech sectors, in addition to having around 10 years of experience in business development, partnership building, and leading growth initiatives.
Garnest is betting on a model that combines accommodation booking with the discovery of destinations and related tourism services, with the goal of building a network of 100,000 customers and 10,000 accommodation units before moving into Gulf markets.