If you’ve been wondering what the ultimate party weekend looks like, here’s a hint: it starts mid-air, ends barefoot on the beach, and involves a who’s-who of DJs, influencers, and the kind of crowd that you thought only existed on Instagram. Sandbox Festival is back for its 2025 edition and it’s flipping the entire playbook on what a music festival can be.
For starters, Moe’s Records decided that regular flights were just… not giving. So they introduced AIRBOX— a fully chartered rave in the sky taking off from Dubai World Central on May 7. Think DJ sets mid-flight, signature cocktails, and a party crew that looks suspiciously like your Instagram explore page. The vibe is more “private jet” than economy class, and it sets the tone for what Sandbox is really about: no half-measures.
Once you land in Hurghada, it’s a swift transfer to El Gouna— a coastal Egyptian resort town that’s basically tailor-made for losing your inhibitions (and your voice). From May 8–10, the Red Sea becomes the backdrop for three days of open-air electronic bliss. Picture sun-soaked dance floors, sunrise sets, and a mini stage curated by Moe’s themselves.
Now in its 11th edition, Sandbox has grown from a regional secret to a global calendar event, drawing in crowds from across the Middle East and Europe. But despite the buzz, it’s managed to keep its magic. Read on to discover MILLE’s curated guide of where to stay, eat, and what to pack for the wildest, sun-soaked weekend of the year on Egypt’s Red Sea coast.
Where to stay in El Gouna
You’ve got options depending on your vibe, from luxe and laid-back to social and scene-y:
The Chedi El Gouna
High-end. Beachfront. Fancy dining and five-star everything.
Steigenberger Hotel El Gouna
Peaceful, cozy, and just far enough from the chaos without missing any of the fun.
Casa Cook El Gouna
Adults-only and poolside perfection. Great if you like minimalist interiors and maximum chill.
Cook’s Club El Gouna
Loud, fun, and most importantly, affordable. Think: pool parties, DJs, and fellow festival-goers literally everywhere.
Sheraton Miramar
Classic resort vibes with lagoon views, calm energy, and a touch of old-school elegance.
Pro tip: El Gouna’s tiny, so wherever you stay, you’re never more than a few minutes from the next set.
Where to eat
You’ll be burning energy (and brain cells), so good food is essential.
Zia Amelia
Pasta, pizza, candlelight. Perfect for post-festival debriefs over carbs and gossip.
Malibu El Gouna
Beachside bites and smoothies. Great for lunch between sets or pretending to be healthy.
The Smokery
Sushi and seafood with marina views. For when you’re craving something a little extra.
Tandoor
Indian comfort food— big portions, bold flavors, and butter chicken worth writing home about.
Mazagouna
If you’re seeking Egyptian classics and quick service, it’s a solid go-to for cheap, satisfying fuel.
Barten
Burgers, fries, and fried things. No notes.
Whose set to catch
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The lineup is stacked. Here’s a taste:
Ricardo Villalobos
Sama’ Abdulhadi
Âme b2b Sama’ Abdulhadi
Ben UFO
WhoMadeWho [Hybrid DJ Set]
Jimi Jules b2b Julya Karma
ANOTR
Sonja Moonear
Hoolz
What to pack
Pack smart — it’s a beach rave, not a ski trip.
- Linen, mesh, oversized cotton shirts (breathable is key)
- Comfortable sneakers or sandals
- Sunscreen, sunglasses, a hat
- Reusable water bottle + electrolytes (Humantra is a fave)
- Mini bag or crossbody for essentials
- Earplugs (trust us)
- A fan, if you’re dramatic (we support it)
How to not crash and burn
Some tips to keep you thriving:
- Download set times in advance— especially for Moe’s mini stage
- Hydrate like your life depends on it
- Pace yourself— sleep is allowed
- Respect the beach, as in pick up your stuff
- Don’t spend the whole fest filming it
- And yes, missing your return flight is a risk (a cute one though)
Tickets are almost gone. Get yours now at sandboxfestival.com
