Egypt Prepares for Second Phase of National AI Strategy, Targets More Investments in AI Data Centers
Egypt is preparing to move into the second phase of its National Artificial Intelligence Strategy, with plans to turn AI technologies into practical applications serving citizens and businesses while attracting greater investment in AI data centers.
The announcement was made by Communications and Information Technology Minister Raafat Hindi during the opening session of Cairo ICT 2026. He revealed that Egypt's ICT sector recorded a growth rate of 24.3% during the latest quarter, highlighting the importance of building on the sector's performance and strengthening its contribution to the national economy.
Hindi explained that this year's exhibition theme, "AI in Action," reflects a shift from discussing artificial intelligence capabilities to integrating them into everyday services. This includes helping doctors improve healthcare delivery, enabling teachers to enhance educational tools, allowing citizens to complete transactions more efficiently and supporting businesses in reducing operating costs and improving competitiveness.
Egypt Advances to the Second Phase of Its National AI Strategy
Hindi stated that Egypt's National Artificial Intelligence Strategy for 2025–2030, under the patronage of President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi, reflects the government's commitment to positioning AI as a major driver of economic and social development.
He stressed that the current phase requires moving forward with the strategy's second stage across its six pillars, focusing on translating strategic objectives into practical projects that deliver direct benefits to citizens and government institutions.
The minister noted that the National AI Council coordinates efforts among relevant authorities to ensure alignment and turn national priorities into real-world applications across key sectors, including healthcare, agriculture and justice.
He also highlighted the importance of the Responsible AI Charter as a framework for promoting safe and ethical technology adoption and strengthening public trust in AI applications.
Egypt Seeks Greater Investment in AI Data Centers
Hindi revealed that Egypt is working to attract increased investment in artificial intelligence data centers to strengthen the infrastructure required for advanced applications.
These investments are expected to support companies and investors in expanding their operations and benefiting from opportunities created by emerging technologies.
He emphasized that developing AI data center capabilities is essential to strengthening Egypt's position in the global technology industry, particularly as international demand continues to grow for computing resources, data processing services and AI applications.
Minister Urges Young Egyptians to Become AI Developers
Addressing young Egyptians, Hindi encouraged them to move beyond simply using artificial intelligence tools and take an active role in developing the technology and creating its applications.
He emphasized the importance of acquiring the technical skills needed to compete in emerging labor markets.
The minister also highlighted Egypt's cooperation with African countries to develop a continental approach to AI collaboration based on exchanging expertise and establishing joint programs that respect each country's national priorities and development strategies.
He added that stronger African cooperation offers an opportunity to enhance the continent's technological capabilities and expand the use of AI in development and public services.
Cairo ICT Strengthens Regional Technology Cooperation
Hindi welcomed participants from Arab and African countries and other parts of the world, noting that Cairo ICT has contributed over three decades to creating new opportunities for investment, cooperation and knowledge exchange across the telecommunications and information technology sectors.
He concluded by reaffirming Egypt's commitment to expanding cooperation with regional and international partners while creating greater opportunities for young people to participate in developing technology and shaping the digital future.