The New York Times takes a deep dive into our divided Sahel

The tale of two Sahels: The New York Times is out with a piece diving into the social and economic divides reflected in our North Coast. The article highlights the contrast between the Good Sahel, or El Sahel El Tayeb — known for its modest family holidays and simple beach life — and the Evil Sahel, or El Sahel El Shireer — which is known for its expensive houses, high-end resorts, pricey parties, and exclusive beach clubs.

NYT writes that the two Sahels — separated by less than an hour’s drive — symbolize Egypt’s widening class gap and conflicting cultural values. While Good Sahel remains accessible and conservative, Evil Sahel has become a gated enclave of affluence and Western-style freedom. The article suggests that the social tensions on these beaches mirror the broader reality of Egypt today, where questions of identity, privilege, and belonging continue to play out against a backdrop of economic strain.