Egypt will prohibit property owners from demolishing or making changes to any buildings officially classified as having historical, architectural, or cultural value, Prime Minister Moustafa Madbouly said Wednesday. Speaking at a press conference from the Cabinet's headquarters in the New Administrative Capital, Prime Minister Madbouly said the government is taking firm steps to protect national heritage, adding that registered properties will be safeguarded under strict oversight. He explained such buildings will no longer be treated as ordinary properties subject to demolition or redevelopment permits. "These buildings will remain standing and preserved," Prime Minister Madbouly said. "Owners will not have the freedom to replace them with new structures." The move comes as part of broader efforts to regulate urban development while preserving Egypt's architectural legacy amid ongoing expansion projects across the country. The policy aims to protect a significant number of heritage sites, many already covered by existing preservation laws, from speculative redevelopment. The prime minister said the government is preparing alternative plans to maximise the value of such assets while maintaining their historic character. He added that each property will be reviewed individually to determine the best use without compromising its cultural significance, signaling a more tailored and case-by-case approach to heritage preservation. Attribution: Amwal Al Ghad English
