Egypt
Egypt controls the Suez Canal, one of the busiest shipping lanes on Earth, carrying roughly a tenth of global trade between the Mediterranean and the Red Sea. East of Cairo, a brand new administrative capital is rising, one of the largest urban megaprojects underway anywhere in the world. As the most populous country in the Arab world, Egypt anchors a domestic market few African economies can match. This is where Egyptian businesses meet buyers looking for them, at home and across the region.
List your businessControls the Suez Canal. Building a new capital from scratch. The Arab world’s most populous nation.
Why the world still routes through Egypt
- Control one of the busiest shipping lanes on Earth
The Suez Canal carries roughly a tenth of global trade, linking the Mediterranean directly to the Red Sea and generating billions in annual revenue.
- Build a brand new capital from scratch
The New Administrative Capital rising east of Cairo is one of the largest urban megaprojects underway anywhere in the world.
- Anchor the largest consumer market in the Arab world
Egypt is the most populous Arab nation, giving businesses here a domestic market few African economies can match.
- Main business languageArabic
- Key trade gatewaySuez Canal
- Commercial hub cityCairo
- Leading export sectorsPetroleum products, gas, textiles
- Global trade shareSuez Canal carries ~10% of world trade
- Population rankMost populous Arab nation
- CurrencyEgyptian pound (EGP)
- Time zoneEET (UTC+2)
- Calling code+20
Egyptian companies open for business
Showing verified listings across Cairo, Alexandria, Port Said, Suez & Giza
Starting a business in Egypt?
Registering a business in Egypt means working through GAFI (General Authority for Investment and Free Zones). This guide breaks down the real steps, approximate cost, and approximate timeline, so you know what to expect before you begin.
Steps, fees, and timelines are approximate and compiled from public 2026 guides to the official process. Confirm current details directly with the official portal
Egypt, beyond the pyramids
Guides on the sectors and services shaping Egypt’s economy today