Egypt Targets 7-8% Sustainable Annual Growth

The Mosque of Muhammad Ali is seen shrouded in fog at the Saladin Citadel fortification in Cairo, Egypt, 12 September 2023. (EPA)
The Mosque of Muhammad Ali is seen shrouded in fog at the Saladin Citadel fortification in Cairo, Egypt, 12 September 2023. (EPA)
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Egypt Targets 7-8% Sustainable Annual Growth

The Mosque of Muhammad Ali is seen shrouded in fog at the Saladin Citadel fortification in Cairo, Egypt, 12 September 2023. (EPA)
The Mosque of Muhammad Ali is seen shrouded in fog at the Saladin Citadel fortification in Cairo, Egypt, 12 September 2023. (EPA)

Egypt’s Planning Minister Dr. Hala El-Saied said Egypt is targeting sustainable annual growth ranging between 7 to 8 percent.

Speaking at the "Story of a Homeland” conference that was inaugurated by President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi on Saturday, she added that despite diverse sources the growth remains unsustainable.

The minister remarked that Egypt aims to boost private sector investments from 36 percent to 65 percent of the overall investments by 2030.

The government is seeking to increase exports to $100 billion during the next five years to attract private investments worth $40 billion by 2060, and to proceed with its plans to boost the private sector's role in the economy.

Speaking at the same event, Prime Minister Mostafa Madbouli said Egypt would manage to produce all its petroleum products next year.

He added that crude oil will continue to be imported but will be refined in the country.

The PM said that the project to double the Suez Canal has replaced the idea of alternative routes.

Egypt plans to expand the length of the canal from 72 kilometers to 82 kilometers.

The canal is a prime source of foreign currency to Egypt.

Sisi had previously stated that the revenue generated from the Suez Canal is anticipated to reach $10.5 billion by the end of the year.

The annual revenues of the canal reached $9.4 billion during the 2022/2023 fiscal year, announced Suez Canal Authority (SCA) chief Osama Rabie in July.

During the G20 summit hosted by India last month, a memorandum of understanding was signed to set up the India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor. The IMEC project envisages laying down, alongside the railway line, cables for electricity and digital connectivity, as well as pipelines for clean/green hydrogen export.

Madbouli added that Egypt aims to increase the number of tourists from 15 million annually to 30 million in the next five years.



Riyadh to Host 3rd Edition of Saudi Tourism Forum Under the Slogan ‘To Discover’

A general view of Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. (Asharq Al-Awsat)
A general view of Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. (Asharq Al-Awsat)
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Riyadh to Host 3rd Edition of Saudi Tourism Forum Under the Slogan ‘To Discover’

A general view of Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. (Asharq Al-Awsat)
A general view of Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. (Asharq Al-Awsat)

Riyadh is set to host the third edition of the Saudi Tourism Forum from January 7 to 9 at Roshn Front.

Organized in partnership with the Ministry of Tourism, the Saudi Tourism Authority, and the Tourism Development Fund, the event will run under the theme "To Discover."

This year’s forum serves as a dynamic platform to highlight new and unique tourist destinations across the Kingdom, offering visitors innovative experiences while showcasing Saudi Arabia’s diverse tourism potential. With over 100 exhibitors, the forum provides an expansive space to explore the latest developments in the tourism sector, spotlight major investment projects, and foster skill development and partnerships to drive tourism growth.

Chief Executive Officer of 4M Event and Chairman of the Forum’s Organizing Committee Eng. Hamza Nasser emphasized the forum’s role in advancing collaboration within the tourism sector. "Through the forum, we aim to promote the beauty of Saudi tourist destinations, enhance cooperation among stakeholders, and raise awareness about investment and development opportunities. This aligns with the goals of the Kingdom’s Vision 2030,” he said.
Since its inception, the Saudi Tourism Forum has significantly advanced efforts to promote the Kingdom's rich cultural heritage and distinctive tourist sites. Supported by prominent partners and sponsors, the event underscores a shared commitment to developing this vital sector.
The program will feature a variety of seminars and workshops, offering insights into the latest trends and developments in tourism. Attendees will have the opportunity to engage with keynote speakers, decision-makers, and industry professionals, enhancing their skills and knowledge.
The forum is expected to attract a diverse audience, including business leaders, investors, officials, and dignitaries, creating fertile ground for collaboration and partnerships.