Dr. Manal Awad, Minister of Local Development and Environment, visited this morning the ongoing works of the second phase of the Attaba Market development project in the Mousky area of Cairo Governorate. This project is funded by the ministry as part of its plan to develop commercial markets and priority areas, enhancing the quality of the urban environment and improving infrastructure and public services to ensure safety and protection for citizens and market visitors.
Accompanying the minister during the tour were Dr. Said Helmy Abdel Khalek, Head of the Integrated Planning and Local Development Sector at the ministry, along with several representatives from the executing agencies and companies, as well as Ahmed Khalifa, Head of the Mousky District. The minister listened to a detailed presentation about the current status of the ongoing works, where the sector head explained that the current phase includes the streets of Youssef Nagib Extension, Qattawi, Bab Sharq, in addition to Al-Bosta and Attaba streets, with a total length of approximately 1052 meters.
Details of the Development Project
The sector head indicated that the ministry's intervention came in light of the congestion and random occupations in the area that affected the flow of entry and exit, hindering the access of fire and ambulance vehicles in emergencies, which posed a risk to lives and property. The project includes the development and enhancement of approximately 152 commercial shops, 5 properties with distinctive architectural styles, and 9 modern properties, as part of a comprehensive vision to preserve the area's visual identity and improve the overall urban landscape.
The development works include painting and enhancing the facades of properties and shops, installing wooden signs for buildings with architectural styles, and cladding signs for modern properties. Additionally, fire-resistant canopies will be implemented, tables for vendors provided, surveillance cameras and modern lighting fixtures installed, interlocking flooring laid, and a comprehensive civil protection system established that includes fire hydrants and rainwater drainage.
Background & Context
The site was handed over at the end of March 2026, following coordination with street vendors and their temporary relocation to Attaba Park to ensure the continuity of their income source. Intensive coordination meetings were also held with various utility companies to commence the enhancement of sewage, drinking water, electricity, and communication networks. In terms of execution rates, drinking water works have been completed at 100%, while sewage execution reached 95%, and electrical works are ongoing at 15%.
During the tour, the Minister of Local Development and Environment made it a point to meet with several street vendors and shop owners, listening to their opinions and observations. She emphasized that the project aims to implement a comprehensive urban development that balances the preservation of the area's historical commercial activity, improves the work environment, and ensures public safety while enhancing service quality.
Impact & Consequences
The minister directed the necessity of adhering to the specified timeline for completing the development works and maintaining continuous coordination with the Urban Coordination Authority and the executing company to finish enhancing and painting the facades of buildings with architectural styles, in line with the area's visual identity. She also stressed the importance of focusing on landscaping and beautification works for the targeted streets, especially Attaba and Al-Bosta streets, and linking the second phase works with what has been implemented in the first phase of the project.
Regional Significance
The Attaba Market development project represents an important step towards improving infrastructure in vital commercial areas, contributing to enhancing economic activity and attracting investments. This project reflects the Egyptian government's commitment to improving the quality of life for citizens and providing a safe and suitable work environment.
In conclusion, the development of Attaba Market is part of broader efforts to enhance the urban landscape in Cairo, reflecting a forward-looking vision aimed at promoting sustainable development and improving the quality of life for citizens.