Real estate developers and industry experts outlined new mechanisms to regulate Egypt's property market and strengthen its investment appeal during the ninth edition of the Think Commercial Roundtable, held under the theme "Real Estate Industry as a Driver for Investment and Exports." The discussions moved across several pressing themes, from investment opportunities in regional and international markets to the latest real estate investment tools, while also addressing the need to balance supply and demand in order to boost competitiveness for both local and foreign investors. To open the debate, Tarek Shoukry, Chairperson of the Real Estate Development Chamber at the Federation of Egyptian Industries and Deputy Chair of Parliament's housing committee, stressed the importance of creating an official association for developers under a formal law to regulate competition. He also recommended establishing a specialised department within the Ministry of Housing to oversee land sales and ensure market stability. "Proper regulation and supervision will enhance the reputation of real estate investment in Egypt," Shoukry said, highlighting the sector's resilience despite prevailing economic challenges. Building on this regulatory angle, Diaa El-Din Farag, Chairperson of Hometown Developments, called for greater government facilitation. He pointed to the need for stabilising land prices, adjusting financing interest rates, and simplifying licensing procedures. Farag also warned that excessively long payment plans could threaten market stability if left unchecked. Echoing the call for stronger regulation, Mohamed El-Bostany, Chairperson of the Association of Real Estate Developers (arD), emphasised the urgency of unifying the relationship between the state, developers, and clients. He proposed introducing developer classification, an investment map to determine market needs, faster legal procedures, and effective enforcement of the Real Estate Developers Federation Law. Turning to the international dimension, Hesham Shoukry, Chairperson of the Real Estate Export Council, underlined Egypt's growing focus on property export. While he praised the sector's resilience and the strength of its developers, he also noted the absence of a fully structured development industry. To unlock greater potential, he advocated for complete property registration, clearer legislation, stronger oversight, and the adoption of digital platforms to attract investment and sustain growth. On the technology front, Ahmed Fekry, Chairperson of Contact Development, stressed the significance of digital tools such as the Official Egyptian Real Estate Platform in unifying offerings and boosting transparency. He further highlighted the challenges posed by currency volatility and high borrowing costs, urging a reduction in interest rates to support developers. Adding to the economic perspective, Ayman Amer, General Manager of SODIC, drew attention to the property sector's 20% contribution to GDP. He argued that restructuring the market is vital, particularly by revising land pricing mechanisms and tightening brokerage regulations, in order to ease barriers for developers and stimulate investment. Similarly, Ahmed El Attal, Chairperson of El Attal Holding, reiterated the call to activate the Real Estate Developers Federation and resolve long-standing registration issues to enable property exports. He further emphasised that the state should clearly define its role as a regulator rather than a competitor in the market. In the same vein, Ahmed Amin Masoud, Chairperson of Menassat Developments, urged adopting fresh perspectives. He proposed activating a national property ID system as a key step towards reform and market transparency. Shifting to financing challenges, Mohamed Motawea, Chairperson of MG Developments, noted that many companies face financial gaps, often launching new projects to fund existing ones. He urged the government to expedite approvals and permits to ease pressures on developers and attract more foreign investment. Addressing the need for collective action, Sameh El-Sayed, CEO of Heliopolis Housing & Development, called for the establishment of a strong Real Estate Developers Union to tackle industry-wide challenges. "It is in Egypt's best interest to listen to investors, address their concerns, and create a more supportive environment for real estate growth," he said. Concluding the discussions, Abdel-Aleem Basiony, Head of the Investor Services Office in the Red Sea governorate, highlighted the sector's pivotal role in supporting Egypt's economy, not only in residential projects but also in industrial and tourism-related investments. He stressed that tourism remains the Red Sea's top priority, citing ongoing coordination with the Tourism Development Authority to maximise opportunities and attract investors.
