Egypt’s Alam El Roum Investment Zone to Be Developed Over 15 Years
Egypt’s Alam El Roum investment zone in Matrouh Governorate is the 21st investment zone approved for establishment in the country since 2017, Mohamed Awad, head of the General Authority for Investment and Free Zones (GAFI), said during an event announcing the project.
Of the 21 zones, 12 are operational and nine remain under development, including Alam El Roum. Awad said the establishment decree marks an important step toward implementation, supporting the government’s efforts to attract investment and facilitate economic projects. He added that coordination over two additional investment zones has reached advanced stages.
Investment zones expand options for businesses
Awad said investment zones are among the frameworks available to investors to simplify project establishment and reduce administrative burdens. Other options include public and private free zones and technological zones, allowing businesses to select a system suited to their activities and requirements.
GAFI to coordinate government procedures
Under the investment zone model, investors can focus on developing their businesses rather than handling approvals and permits across multiple government agencies.
GAFI coordinates with the relevant authorities and follows up on procedures on investors’ behalf, while ensuring compliance with each agency’s legal and regulatory requirements. This arrangement allows developers to concentrate on construction, infrastructure, project marketing and attracting investment, with GAFI acting as the liaison between investors and government bodies without overriding their statutory powers.
Government coordination supports Alam El Roum development
Awad stressed the importance of continued cooperation between GAFI, ministries and government agencies responsible for the project land to complete the necessary procedures and move development forward.
He praised cooperation with the Ministry of Housing and other authorities involved in Alam El Roum, citing their responsiveness and coordination. He also thanked Dr. Walid Abbas for his cooperation with the authority.
Details of the Alam El Roum decree
Prime Minister Mostafa Madbouly issued Decree No. 3124 of 2026 establishing the investment zone in Matrouh. The decree was published in Official Gazette Issue No. 40 bis (B), dated October 5, 2026, after the Cabinet approved the draft at its September 16 meeting.
The zone covers approximately 4,900.99 feddans, equivalent to 20.588 million square meters, along the Alexandria–Matrouh coastal road. The decree authorizes Al Diar Qatar Real Estate Development – Alam El Roum to establish and develop the zone.
The project is designed as an integrated urban development with international standards and regional appeal, incorporating residential, tourism, commercial, administrative and service activities. It follows an agreement dated November 6, 2025, between the New Urban Communities Authority, Al Diar Qatar Real Estate Investment Company and Al Diar Qatar Real Estate Development Company.
The developer must implement the project according to its submitted timetable and complete it within a maximum of 15 years from the date the entire project land is handed over. The license will be considered void if the deadline is not met. The company must also comply with Egypt’s environmental and health standards, civil defense requirements, and occupational safety and health regulations.