The incredible new £83bn seaside city 'twice the size of Barcelona' building a new airport

Plans to build a vast new city in Egypt, set to be twice the size of Barcelona, have taken a step forward this week as construction work began and a master developer officer was appointed on Friday. 

The Ras El-Hekma “mega-development” is hoped to revitalise the country’s economy and become a magnet for tourists. It will involve residential districts, international hotels, tourist resorts, entertainment and sports venues, as well as hospitals, schools and universities.

“It is envisioned as a fully functional, smart, sustainable and inclusive urban community situated against the scenic coastline,” according to developer Modon Holding. 

The new seaside city, around 217 miles from Cairo, will likely have resorts by Accor and Ennismore, golf courses by Valderrama and deluxe accommodation created by Candy International, project bosses say.