Egypt has announced plans to build a new desert city west of Cairo that will divert about 7% of its annual Nile River quota from fertile delta farmland to support upscale residential and commercial projects.
Prime Minister Mostafa Madbouly said on Sunday the city aims to boost state asset value and land prices through “non-traditional, innovative ideas,” as Egypt grapples with water shortages and an economic crisis.
The project, known as Jirian city, will cover 6.8 million square meters (2.63 square miles) and receive 10 million cubic meters of Nile water daily. It will help irrigate the 2.28 million-acre New Delta agricultural project, according to developers.
The agreement was signed by three private developers and the military-affiliated Mostakbal Misr for Sustainable Development. Plans include residential units, commercial zones, a yacht marina and a free economic zone.
