Egypt plans to offer its first airport for private management and operation before the end of 2025, Prime Minister Moustafa Madbouly announced during a meeting with Makhtar Diop, CEO of the International Finance Corporation (IFC), on the sidelines of the Development Finance to Foster Private Sector-Led Growth & Jobs conference on Sunday. Madbouly highlighted ongoing cooperation with the IFC in preparing several Egyptian airports for management by leading global companies. He said the move marks a significant step as it will be the first time Egyptian airports are operated by specialised private firms with international expertise. For his part, Diop welcomed the Prime Minister's support and confirmed that a comprehensive strategy for offering airports to the private sector will be announced soon. He noted that the awarding process will begin shortly after bidding, starting with Hurghada International Airport. The IFC chief also expressed interest in expanding cooperation with Egypt across key sectors, particularly in tourism, including therapeutic, coastal, cultural, and medical tourism. Moreover, Minister of Planning and Economic Development Rania Al-Mashat praised the IFC's professionalism and confirmed that the government will coordinate closely with the organisation to promote the airport management strategy locally and internationally, drawing on global success stories. Attribution: Amwal Al Ghad English Subediting: M. S. Salama
