- Egypt implemented significant economic measures within 10 days, including a large interest-rate hike, currency flotation, and doubling its IMF rescue package.
- The UAE pledged a historic $35 billion investment, with a focus on development projects like Ras El-Hekma, signalling growing investor confidence in Egypt’s economic potential.
- Preliminary talks between Egypt and Saudi Arabia suggest the possibility of further investments, potentially in areas like Ras Gamila, which could further boost Egypt’s economic revival.
In just 10 days, Egypt has experienced a remarkable economic transformation, moving from the brink of disaster to unlocking over $40 billion in investments and loans from the United Arab Emirates (UAE) and the International Monetary Fund (IMF). With the potential for further support from Saudi Arabia and other sources, Egypt’s prospects are looking brighter than ever.
Major Developments
On Wednesday, Egypt implemented significant measures to stabilise its economy, including its largest-ever interest-rate hike and a long-awaited flotation of its currency, resulting in a more than 38% depreciation. Additionally, the country announced that its existing IMF rescue package would be more than doubled to $8 billion.
Global Efforts and Investor Confidence
These actions represent the culmination of global efforts, primarily led by Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) nations and the IMF. Foreign investors are already expressing confidence in Egypt’s turnaround and anticipate significant inflows of capital from bond traders in the coming months.
Focus on Saudi Arabia
Looking ahead, Saudi Arabia may play a pivotal role in Egypt’s economic revival. Preliminary discussions between Egyptian and Saudi authorities are underway regarding development rights for Ras Gamila, a northern Red Sea coast area near the Sinai resort city of Sharm El-Sheikh. While details remain private, Saudi Arabia will follow the UAE’s lead in making a substantial investment in Egypt’s future if an agreement is reached.
UAE’s Historic Investment
In late February, the UAE announced a groundbreaking $35 billion investment in Egypt, the largest in the country’s history. The majority of this investment will focus on the development of Ras El-Hekma, a peninsula on the Mediterranean coast, signalling the UAE’s confidence in Egypt’s economic potential.
Roots of Economic Turmoil
Egypt’s recent economic challenges trace back to 2022 when Russia’s invasion of Ukraine led to surging commodity prices and increased costs for imported goods like wheat and fuel. Bond investors withdrew approximately $20 billion from Egypt, exacerbating the situation. Additionally, conflicts in the region, such as Israel’s war with Hamas in Gaza and shipping disruptions in the Red Sea, further strained Egypt’s economy.
Potential Saudi Investment
The ongoing negotiations between Egyptian and Saudi authorities regarding Ras Gamila are in the early stages and could falter. However, if successful, the agreement could yield several billion dollars in investment, although Ras Gamila is smaller in size compared to Ras El-Hekma.
Future Outlook
The influx of funds from the UAE, potential Saudi investment, and anticipated support from the IMF and World Bank are expected to bolster Egypt’s economy, stabilize its newly floated currency, and meet its debt obligations. Furthermore, these developments may lead to an upgrade in Egypt’s credit rating, lowering borrowing costs and enhancing its attractiveness to investors.
Expert Analysis
Omar Monieb, a senior analyst for the Middle East and North Africa at Eurasia Group, predicts that Egypt’s economic revival could lead to an upgrade in its credit rating and subsequent reductions in borrowing costs.
Egypt’s rapid economic turnaround, fueled by substantial investments and loans, marks a significant milestone in its journey from crisis to stability. With continued support from regional partners and global institutions, Egypt is poised for sustained growth and prosperity in the years ahead.
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