Planning minister reviews strategic development projects in Rashid
Egypt's Minister of Planning and Economic Development, Ahmed Rostom, visited Rashid Port in Beheira Governorate to review progress on a $700 million port development project. The initiative focuses on modernizing port infrastructure, enhancing maritime services, and boosting the transport and logistics sectors. The project includes new berths, ship repair facilities, and utility networks, with a second phase set to introduce fish refrigeration, customs buildings, and fishing supply factories. Beheira Governor Jacqueline Azar highlighted the project's potential to generate over 5,000 jobs and stimulate local investment. During the visit, Rostom also emphasized the importance of preserving historical sites like the Al-Amasili House to promote tourism and sustainable economic development.
Egypt is set to bolster its air connectivity to the tourist-rich Matrouh governorate, aiming to enhance visitor access to the region's attractions and stimulate local economic activity. This initiative comes amid broader efforts to modernize infrastructure and promote tourism along the Mediterranean coastline. Recent developments include the inauguration of a newly renovated promenade and the expansion of port facilities in nearby regions, signaling a coordinated push to elevate Matrouh's status as a premier travel destination. On August 9, 2026, Prime Minister Mostafa Madbouly officially opened the renovated June 30 Corniche in Matrouh, a key component of a larger infrastructure upgrade project. During the ceremony, Madbouly visited the "Treasures of Egypt in Matrouh" exhibition, which showcases products from 20 governorates and highlights the nation's cultural diversity. The corniche itself has undergone extensive modifications, including the addition of three traffic lanes in each direction, a modern tourist promenade, and improved landscaping. The project also incorporated 570 lighting poles, upgraded traffic signs, and enhanced U-turn areas to improve traffic flow and safety. Additionally, 45 new cafes and retail outlets have been established, and beach areas have been expanded through the addition of sand layers. Governor Mohamed El Zamlout emphasized that these improvements are designed to accommodate growing populations and rising tourist numbers in Matrouh. The collaboration between the governorate and the Armed Forces Engineering Authority ensured the completion of the approximately 2-kilometer-long development. The renovations aim to transform the area into a more inviting space for both residents and visitors, reinforcing Matrouh's appeal as a Mediterranean coastal hub. In parallel, the Ministry of Planning and Economic Development has been reviewing strategic development projects in the Beheira Governorate, particularly focusing on Rashid Port. Minister Ahmed Rostom highlighted the importance of investing in ports and logistics to drive economic growth, enhance trade infrastructure, and boost the competitiveness of Egyptian exports. During a recent visit to Rashid Port, Rostom and Governor Jacqueline Azar inspected the ongoing LE700 million development project, which spans 48,000 square meters. The initiative involves constructing new berths, ship repair and maintenance workshops, marine service facilities, utility networks, and administrative buildings. A second phase of the project will introduce fish refrigeration and ice production facilities, a customs building, and a factory producing fishing supplies, further diversifying the port's offerings. According to Azar, the project is anticipated to generate over 5,000 direct and indirect jobs, attract new investments, and fortify the local economy. The development also encompasses the restoration of historical sites in Rashid, such as the Al-Amasili House, an Ottoman-era landmark. Rostom noted that preserving these cultural assets while upgrading infrastructure would support tourism, safeguard Egypt's heritage, and foster sustainable economic progress. Efforts to revitalize Matrouh extend beyond land-based initiatives. Plans are underway to strengthen air connectivity to the region, ensuring smoother access for tourists seeking to explore its beaches, historical sites, and cultural exhibitions. These measures align with national strategies aimed at boosting tourism and leveraging regional resources to sustain long-term economic benefits. As these projects continue to unfold, they reflect a comprehensive approach to developing Egypt's coastal regions and positioning them as vital components of the country's tourism industry.
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