The Egyptian Cabinet, led by Prime Minister Mostafa Madbouli, convened on Wednesday, October 28, 2026, at the government headquarters in the new capital, and approved a package of significant decisions. These decisions included a 30% reduction in electricity consumption fees for certain users with code meters, an extension of the application period for alternative housing units for those affected by the old rent law, and the granting of golden licenses to two wind power projects.
The reduction in electricity consumption fees will benefit citizens who use code meters prior to 2024 and have not settled construction violations. This move is expected to provide relief to around 3 billion Egyptian pounds, which the state will cover. The decision aims to give eligible citizens a chance to rectify their situations. This step is in line with the recommendations and outcomes of the "Egypt 2026" forum.
The Cabinet also agreed to extend the application period for citizens covered by Law No. 164 of 2025, concerning certain provisions related to rent laws and the reorganization of the relationship between landlords and tenants. The new deadline for applications is 12 January 2027, three months after the initial period ended on 12 October 2026. This extension allows more time for citizens to apply for alternative housing or non-residential units.
According to the Housing Ministry's report, around 96,500 citizens have applied, submitting a total of 106,600 applications, with 104,700 for residential units and 1,800 for non-residential ones. Cairo Governorate had the highest number of applicants, followed by Giza. The Social Housing Fund and Real Estate Finance Support have provided around 15,000 residential units in new cities and governorates under the current rental program.
The Cabinet approved the granting of golden licenses to two wind power projects. The first project, by "Shadwan Wind Energy" company, aims to produce 900 megawatts of electricity in Ras Shaqir, Red Sea Governorate. The second project, by "Shakir Wind Energy" company, will produce 900 megawatts in the Gulf of Suez. Both projects are expected to create thousands of job opportunities during construction and operation phases.
The Cabinet also decided to adjust the boundaries of the 15th of May city, increasing its total area to approximately 21,884.45 acres. Additionally, the Cabinet formed the Higher Council for Human Resource Skills Development, chaired by the Labor Minister, to develop policies for human resource skills and vocational training. The council will include representatives from various ministries, organizations, and business owners.
Another decision included the establishment of a fund to finance vocational training and qualification, which will operate at the national level according to labor market needs. The fund will finance programs for human resource skills development, vocational and technical training, and the creation of training centers. Its activities will be supervised by a council headed by the Labor Minister, with members from relevant ministries, business owners, and labor organizations.
Key points
- The Egyptian Cabinet approved a series of decisions impacting millions, including cuts to electricity prices and alternative housing options.
- Two wind power projects were granted golden licenses, expected to create thousands of job opportunities.
- The Cabinet also formed the Higher Council for Human Resource Skills Development and established a fund to finance vocational training.
