Discover the Future of Egypt’s North Coast: The Transformative Ras El Hikma Project

Introduction

Ras El Hikma, a picturesque village in Matruh, Egypt, is set to become the next big thing on Egypt’s North Coast. With a significant historical background and a recent $35 billion investment deal with the UAE’s Abu Dhabi Developmental Holding Company (ADQ), this area is undergoing a transformative development. 

This article delves into the rich history, the importance of the Ras El Hikma project, the geographical risks, the design and districts of the new city, the involvement of real estate developers, and its connectivity to the Middle East, Europe, and North America.

Historical Significance of Ras El Hikma

A Rich History

Ras El Hikma, located on the Mediterranean coast, is not just a modern marvel in the making but a region steeped in history. Historically, it has been known for its pristine beaches and agricultural contributions, particularly in producing 17% of Egypt’s olives and 26% of its figs (Wikipedia). This agricultural richness speaks volumes about the fertility and economic potential of the area long before modern developments began.

Cultural Impact

The cultural heritage of Ras El Hikma is intertwined with the traditions of the local Bedouin tribes who have inhabited the area for centuries. These tribes have maintained their unique customs, contributing to the region’s rich cultural tapestry. As the new city rises, there are plans to preserve and integrate these cultural elements into the modern urban landscape, ensuring that the area’s history and traditions continue to thrive.

Major Development Initiatives in Ras El Hikma egypt

Investment Overview

The Ras El Hikma project is a cornerstone of Egypt’s ambitious economic development plans. The $35 billion investment deal with ADQ is the largest foreign direct investment in Egypt’s history (EgyptToday). This deal includes the injection of $35 billion into the Egyptian economy within two months, with a total of $150 billion expected over the project’s lifetime (EgyptToday) (Egypt Independent). Such substantial investments are set to transform Ras El Hikma into a bustling urban and tourist hub.

Government and Developer Collaboration

The collaboration between the Egyptian New Urban Communities Authority (NUCA) and ADQ marks a significant shift in how large-scale projects are handled in Egypt. This partnership involves a co-development model where both entities share risks and profits. Egypt will receive 35% of the project’s profits, highlighting the mutual benefits of this collaboration (Tahrir Institute) (Daily News Egypt). This strategic partnership aims to leverage the expertise and financial power of ADQ while ensuring substantial returns for the Egyptian economy.

Design and Districts of the New City

City Layout

The planned layout of the new Ras El Hikma city spans 170 million square meters, encompassing residential, commercial, and industrial zones (EgyptToday). The city will feature a blend of modern infrastructure and sustainable development practices, aiming to become a model for future urban developments in the region.

Key Districts

The new city will be divided into 11 distinct districts, each with its unique features and purposes (Wikipedia):

• Eastern Gate: The primary entrance to the city, featuring grand architectural designs and initial residential complexes.
• Sun Gate: A district dedicated to recreational activities, including parks, open spaces, and community centers.
• White Hill: Known for its upscale residential areas and luxury villas, offering breathtaking views of the Mediterranean.
• Design District: The creative hub of the city, focusing on arts, culture, and innovation.
• Tribal City: Preserving the traditional Bedouin lifestyle while integrating modern amenities.
• Wisdom Island: The educational core, featuring schools, universities, and research centers.
• Fig Valley: A district focused on agriculture, maintaining the region’s historical olive and fig production.
• Old District: Retaining the charm of the old village with preserved historical sites.
• Turtle Beach: A conservation area aimed at protecting the local marine life and promoting eco-tourism.
• Gulf: The central business district with skyscrapers, corporate offices, and commercial centers.
• Western Gate: Housing the city’s main transport hubs and logistics centers.

Real Estate Development in ras el hikma

Developers Involved

Several prominent real estate developers are spearheading the development in Ras El Hikma, ensuring a diverse and vibrant real estate market (Daily News Egypt) (Property Finder). These include:

• Madinet Nasr: Known for their high-quality residential projects.
• El-Attal Group: Specializing in luxury properties and commercial developments.
• IL Cazer: Focusing on integrated community developments and sustainable urban planning.

Property Types

The variety of properties available in Ras El Hikma caters to different needs and preferences. From luxury villas in the White Hill district to affordable housing in the Eastern Gate, the development ensures inclusivity. Commercial spaces in the Gulf district and recreational properties in Sun Gate add to the area’s appeal (Property Finder).

Economic and Social Impact

Economic Benefits

The Ras El Hikma project is poised to bring substantial economic benefits to Egypt. The direct foreign investment of $35 billion will provide a significant boost to the national economy, creating numerous job opportunities and stimulating local businesses (EgyptToday) (EgyptToday). The project’s focus on sustainable and inclusive development is expected to make Ras El Hikma a model for future urban projects in Egypt.

Social Impact

The development project also prioritizes social welfare. The government has committed to compensating and relocating existing residents in the project area, ensuring that they benefit from the new developments. New residential complexes along the coast will provide better living conditions and amenities for these communities (Egypt Independent).

Geographical and Security Considerations

Geographical Risks

The geographical location of Ras El Hikma, while advantageous for tourism and trade, also poses certain risks. Its proximity to the Gaza-Egypt border requires robust security measures to protect investments and ensure the safety of residents and tourists (Tahrir Institute). The Egyptian government, along with international partners, is working to mitigate these risks through enhanced security protocols and infrastructure resilience.

Security Measures

To address these geographical risks, the project incorporates advanced security measures, including surveillance systems, rapid response units, and strategic partnerships with security firms. These efforts aim to create a safe and secure environment for all stakeholders involved in the Ras El Hikma project.

Connectivity and Accessibility

Airport Development

A critical component of the Ras El Hikma project is the development of an international airport. This airport will facilitate direct flights to major regions, including the Middle East, Europe, and North America, significantly boosting the area’s accessibility and tourism potential (EgyptToday). The selection of specific sites for the airport is currently underway, with the aim of enhancing regional connectivity and economic growth.

Global Connectivity

The Ras El Hikma city will benefit from improved road links, such as the El-Dabaa axis and the North Coast road, connecting it to major Egyptian cities like Cairo and Alexandria (EgyptToday). These infrastructure upgrades ensure seamless travel for residents, tourists, and business travelers, making Ras El Hikma an attractive destination for international investments and tourism.

Future Prospects and Conclusion

Tourism and Growth

The Ras El Hikma project is expected to attract millions of tourists annually, transforming the North Coast into a premier travel destination. The area’s natural beauty, combined with state-of-the-art infrastructure and diverse recreational options, will appeal to tourists from around the world (Egypt Independent) (EgyptToday). The project’s comprehensive approach to development ensures that Ras El Hikma will play a significant role in Egypt’s economic and social growth.

Final Thoughts

Ras El Hikma stands at the cusp of a major transformation, driven by unprecedented investment and visionary planning. As the project unfolds, it promises to set new standards for urban development in Egypt and beyond. The integration of modern infrastructure, cultural heritage, and sustainable practices will create a vibrant, inclusive, and thriving community. The Ras El Hikma project is not just about building a new city; it is about shaping the future of Egypt’s North Coast and setting a benchmark for global urban development.