The Egyptian Cabinet, led by Prime Minister Mostafa Madbouly, convened on Wednesday, October 7, 2026, at the New Administrative Capital, to discuss and approve several key development projects. Among the approved projects was the inclusion of the National Project for Regulating the Nile River and its branches as a primary project in the budget of the Ministry of Water Resources and Irrigation for the fiscal years 2026/2027 to 2028/2029. This project aims to restore the Nile River to its original course by removing encroachments and unauthorized constructions along its path.
In addition to the Nile River regulation project, the Cabinet approved an extension of the period for receiving applications for the legalization of state-owned lands. The new deadline allows for an additional six months for individuals and companies to submit their applications. This decision is expected to provide relief to those who were unable to complete the legalization process within the initial timeframe. The Cabinet also approved an extension of the period for submitting applications for amnesty on certain construction violations.
The Cabinet also extended the stay of the "Ramses and the Pharaohs' Gold" exhibition in London for an additional four months, until January 3, 2027. The exhibition, which features around 180 archaeological pieces, has drawn significant interest from visitors. Furthermore, the Cabinet approved 43 requests for land allocation to various companies for different activities, including commercial, urban, residential, administrative, educational, hotel, and investment projects.
The Egyptian government has taken steps to boost the housing sector, with the Cabinet approving a decision to offer a new batch of housing units under the social housing program. The decision includes setting a maximum income limit for eligible applicants and determining the financial obligations for those who benefit from the scheme. Additionally, the Cabinet adopted regulations and controls for the "Sken Ken" program, which aims to provide affordable housing options for low-income individuals.
In the tourism sector, the Cabinet approved a 30-year concession for the management of the Port Said Hotel (formerly known as the Helnan Hotel) to the Egyptian company, Pique Batros. The concession is expected to revitalize the hotel and enhance its services. Moreover, the government has agreed to bear the value of entertainment taxes for several cultural and artistic events during the 2026/2027 season.
The Cabinet also reviewed the annual report of the Egyptian Health and Quality Accreditation Authority for the 2025/2026 fiscal year. The report highlighted the authority's efforts in promoting quality healthcare and enhancing the sustainability of the comprehensive health insurance system. Key achievements include the accreditation of 339 healthcare facilities and the implementation of over 2,100 monitoring visits.
The National Project for Regulating the Nile River and its branches is expected to have a significant impact on the country's water resources management. The project aims to provide accurate information about the river's course and its changes, which will help in monitoring and analyzing the factors affecting water flow. The project will also contribute to improving the maintenance and development of the physical infrastructure of the Nile River, ensuring the safety of water structures such as dams and barrages.
Key points
- The Egyptian Cabinet approved the inclusion of the National Project for Regulating the Nile River and its branches as a primary project in the budget of the Ministry of Water Resources and Irrigation.
- The Cabinet extended the stay of the "Ramses and the Pharaohs' Gold" exhibition in London for an additional four months.
- The government approved a series of development projects, including the allocation of lands for various activities and the implementation of housing and healthcare initiatives.
