Egypt Country Commercial Guide
Learn about the market conditions, opportunities, regulations, and business conditions in egypt, prepared by at U.S. Embassies worldwide by Commerce Department, State Department and other U.S. agencies’ professionals
Select Country Guide
Digital Economy
Last published date:

Overview

The Information and Communications Technology (ICT) sector in Egypt remains highly robust with a growth rate of 15.2 percent for fiscal year 2022/2023, surpassing the overall GDP growth rate. The sector’s contribution to GDP increased to 5.1 percent in fiscal year 2022/2023, up from 4.4 percent in fiscal year 2019/2020. Total investments in the ICT sector surged to $4.2 billion in fiscal year 2022/2023, reflecting a significant increase of 20 percent from the previous fiscal year.

Under its ICT 2030 strategy, the Egyptian government is undertaking a series of investments, capacity building and training programs, digital government services reforms, and infrastructure upgrades. The strategy calls for launching new initiatives to maximize the contribution of the ICT sector to Egypt’s economic growth by focusing on capacity building, electronics design and manufacturing, and technology parks.

The MCIT “Our Future is Digital” initiative aims to train 100,000 young Egyptians and develop their ICT skills in areas of high market demand, including website design, data analysis, and digital marketing.

In 2020, MCIT launched the “Our Digital Opportunity” initiative to engage with SMEs in the digital transformation process. The project had supplied 5,300 government buildings across Egypt with fiber-optic cable connection and aims to supply all 32,000 government entities by 2030, as a part of Egypt’s Vision 2030.

Fifty miles east of Cairo, the New Administrative Capital (NAC) houses most central government offices. The GoE intends for the NAC to be a “Smart City” and plans to invest substanial amounts in its telecommunications and ICT infrastructure. The NAC’s “Knowledge City” will include applied research centers for technology to facilitate technical training, software and applications development, and data design. Estimated to cost $236 million, Knowledge City is expected to host Creativa Innovation Hubs to provide technical assistance and promote innovation and entrepreneurship.

MCIT is developing six technology parks in Minya, Menoufiya, Mansoura, Sohag, Qena, and Aswan. These parks aim to support entrepreneurship and innovation and will consist of hardware design labs, startup incubators and training institutions and integrated systems for AI training, data science, and cybersecurity. The ICT industry in Egypt is managed by MCIT, which oversees the following organizations:

  • National Telecom Regulatory Authority – NTRA

  • IT Industry Development Agency – ITIDA

  • Egypt Post

  • Information Technology Institute – ITI

The Information and Communications Technology (ICT) sector in Egypt remains highly robust with a growth rate of 15.2 percent for fiscal year 2022/2023, surpassing the overall GDP growth rate. The sector’s contribution to GDP increased to 5.1 percent in fiscal year 2022/2023, up from 4.4 percent in fiscal year 2019/2020. Total investments in the ICT sector surged to $4.2 billion in fiscal year 2022/2023, reflecting a significant increase of 20 percent from the previous fiscal year.

Under its ICT 2030 strategy, the Egyptian government is undertaking a series of investments, capacity building and training programs, digital government services reforms, and infrastructure upgrades. The strategy calls for launching new initiatives to maximize the contribution of the ICT sector to Egypt’s economic growth by focusing on capacity building, electronics design and manufacturing, and technology parks.

The MCIT “Our Future is Digital” initiative aims to train 100,000 young Egyptians and develop their ICT skills in areas of high market demand, including website design, data analysis, and digital marketing.

In 2020, MCIT launched the “Our Digital Opportunity” initiative to engage with SMEs in the digital transformation process. The project had supplied 5,300 government buildings across Egypt with fiber-optic cable connection and aims to supply all 32,000 government entities by 2030, as a part of Egypt’s Vision 2030.

Fifty miles east of Cairo, the New Administrative Capital (NAC) houses most central government offices. The GoE intends for the NAC to be a “Smart City” and plans to invest substanial amounts in its telecommunications and ICT infrastructure. The NAC’s “Knowledge City” will include applied research centers for technology to facilitate technical training, software and applications development, and data design. Estimated to cost $236 million, Knowledge City is expected to host Creativa Innovation Hubs to provide technical assistance and promote innovation and entrepreneurship.

MCIT is developing six technology parks in Minya, Menoufiya, Mansoura, Sohag, Qena, and Aswan. These parks aim to support entrepreneurship and innovation and will consist of hardware design labs, startup incubators and training institutions and integrated systems for AI training, data science, and cybersecurity. The ICT industry in Egypt is managed by MCIT, which oversees the following organizations:

  • National Telecom Regulatory Authority – NTRA

  • IT Industry Development Agency – ITIDA

  • Egypt Post

  • Information Technology Institute – ITI

  • National Telecommunication Institute – NTI

  • Center for Documentation of Cultural and Natural Heritage – CULTNAT

  • The Technology Innovation and Entrepreneurship Center – TIEC

  • Smart Villages

  • Silicon Waha

  • Technology Development Fund

Current Market Needs

The government is focused on moving towards a digital economy and accelerating the country’s digital transformation. The government’s ongoing digital transformation offers American companies with proven technologies and competitive pricing various opportunities.

Telecommunications

In June 2020, the Egyptian government announced a plan to enhance internet infrastructure by increasing the average internet speed. By April 2024, the average internet speed had reached 75.3 Mbps from 6.5 Mbps in January 2019.

In June 2025, Egypt officially launched nationwide 5G services, marking a major milestone in its digital transformation agenda. The rollout, led by the National Telecommunications Regulatory Authority (NTRA), involved all four major telecom operators—Vodafone Egypt, Orange Egypt, e& Egypt, and Telecom Egypt—following a combined investment of $2.7 billion in spectrum and infrastructure since 2019. The introduction of 5G is expected to significantly enhance high-speed connectivity, support smart city development, and enable advanced technologies such as AI and the Internet of Things (IoT). Initial coverage focuses on high-density urban areas like Cairo, Alexandria, and the New Administrative Capital, with plans for nationwide expansion by 2026. The GoE views 5G as the cornerstone of its Digital Egypt strategy, aiming to boost economic competitiveness, attract tech investment, and improve digital inclusion across sectors.

The government has invested approximately 3 billion Egyptian pounds ($97 million) to upgrade mobile networks along major roads and in key areas across Egypt. Additionally, new frequencies have been allocated to mobile network operators with a budget of $1.5 billion. A National Center for ICT Services Quality Control and Monitoring has been established to regulate cell phone services and safeguard user interests.

The “Decent Life” (Haya Karima) welfare initiative aims to enhance telecommunication infrastructure in rural villages. This initiative focuses on three main pillars: connecting villages with fiber optic cables to improve internet speed and stability, covering 1.5 million homes; upgrading 1,200 post offices to include ATM machines; and enhancing telecommunication services by establishing new cell phone towers in these villages.

Recent Market Trends

Egypt’s digital transformation has continued to accelerate, driven by government initiatives under the Digital Egypt Strategy and rising consumer demand. As of early 2025, internet penetration reached 81.9 percent, with 96.3 million users online up from 72.2 percent in 2024. The number of peak internet usage hours remains high, averaging 14–16 hours per day, and overall network load has increased by over 100 percent compared to pre-pandemic levels.

Mobile internet usage continues to surge, with cellular data consumption rising by 42 percent year-on-year, fueled by widespread smartphone adoption and the rollout of nationwide 5G services in June 2025. International voice traffic has stabilized, while video conferencing and messaging apps remain popular.

Best Prospects for U.S. Exporters

  • Smart Cities Solutions

  • E-Education software

  • E-Finance applications

  • Artificial Intelligence

  • Cybersecurity

  • Surveillance equipment

  • Telecommunication infrastructure

Artificial Intelligence in Egypt

Artificial Intelligence (AI) has been identified as a strategic priority for Egypt with the government working to integrate AI into its economic and social development plans. The National AI Strategy, launched in 2021, outlines Egypt’s approach to leveraging AI for economic growth, improving public services, and addressing societal challenges. The strategy focuses on capacity building, research and development, ethical AI governance, and fostering partnerships between the public and private sectors.

Capacity-building efforts have been supported by institutions such as the Information Technology Institute (ITI) and the National Telecommunication Institute (NTI), which offer specialized training programs in AI, machine learning, and data science. By March 2025, over 5,000 individuals had completed AI-focused training programs.

AI applications are being investigated for applications including healthcare, agriculture, and transportation. The government is also exploring the use of AI in public administration to streamline processes and improve service delivery.

The Technology Innovation and Entrepreneurship Center (TIEC), managed by the Ministry of Communication and Information Technology (MCIT), has been active in fostering AI innovation. TIEC provides support to startups and researchers working on AI projects, offering funding, mentorship, and access to facilities.

Market Entry

The Ministry of Communications and Information Technology (MCIT) in Egypt is actively seeking suggestions on new technologies, and processes to advance Egypt’s digital economy and foster an environment conducive to technological growth. Companies interested in entering the Egyptian market will find opportunities for collaboration and partnership with the government, especially in areas related to digital infrastructure, cybersecurity, and e-governance.

Tenders

In Egypt, the decision-making entities responsible for procurement and project tenders typically sometimes publish tenders on their official websites, and they sometimes solicit directly from companies. Requests for Proposals (RFPs) to selected companies for specific projects. The decision-making entities vary depending on the nature, location, and sensitivity of the projects. Key entities involved in ICT procurement decisions may include:

  • Ministry of Communications and Information Technology (MCIT): For projects related to IT infrastructure, digital services, and telecommunications.

  • Ministry of Defense: For projects involving defense technologies and national security.

  • State-Owned Enterprises (SOEs): For projects related to public utilities, infrastructure, and large-scale industrial projects.

Engaging with local partners or consultants can also provide valuable insights into the procurement process and help effectively navigate the regulatory landscape.
 

Regulations/Registration Process

Primary Regulatory Bodies:

  • MCIT: Responsible for setting policies, regulations, and strategic planning for the ICT sector.

  • NTRA: Oversees the regulation and development of telecommunications and internet services, including licensing and compliance.

Key Regulations:

  • Telecommunications Law (Law No. 10 of 2003): Governs the telecommunications sector, including licensing, service provision, and competition.

  • Information Technology Law (Law No. 15 of 2004): Regulates IT services, e-commerce, and cybersecurity.

  • Data Protection Law (Law No. 151 of 2020): Establishes guidelines for data protection and privacy, aligning with global standards such as the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR). The executive regulations are not published yet.

  • AI Law is currently under development.

Licensing and Compliance:

  • Licensing: Companies must obtain licenses from NTRA to operate in the telecommunications sector. This includes licenses for providing telecom services, operating networks, and managing frequencies.

  • Compliance: Companies are required to comply with technical standards, quality of service requirements, and data protection regulations. Regular audits and reports may be required to ensure adherence.
     

Registration Process:

Company Registration

  • General Authority for Investment and Free Zones (GAFI): All ICT companies must register with GAFI. This involves submitting documentation such as the company’s charter, proof of capital, and details of directors and shareholders.

  • Commercial Registry: Companies must also be registered with the Commercial Registry, which involves providing business details and legal documentation.

Sector-Specific Registration

  • Telecommunications License Application: Companies providing telecom services must submit a license application to NTRA. This application includes technical and financial details, business plans, and compliance measures.

  • Frequency Allocation: Companies requiring frequency allocation for wireless services must apply to NTRA, detailing the technical specifications and intended use of the frequencies.
     

Data Protection and Cybersecurity

  • Data Protection Registration: Companies handling personal data must register with the Data Protection Authority and comply with the Data Protection Law. This includes implementing data protection measures and conducting impact assessments.

  • Cybersecurity Compliance: Companies must adhere to cybersecurity regulations and standards as set by MCIT and NTRA. This may involve certifications, audits, and regular security assessments.

Tax Registration

Egyptian Tax Authority: Companies must register with the Egyptian Tax Authority to obtain a tax identification number and comply with tax obligations, including VAT and corporate taxes.

Navigating the regulatory and registration process in Egypt’s ICT sector requires understanding the legal framework and engaging with relevant authorities. Companies should ensure compliance with licensing requirements, data protection laws, and sector-specific regulations. Foreign investors are advised to collaborate with local partners and consult with legal and business experts to facilitate a smooth entry into the Egyptian market.

For detailed guidance and assistance, companies can contact the Ministry of Communications and Information Technology or the National Telecommunication Regulatory Authority.
 

Technical Barriers

Egypt has a free trade agreement with Europe which makes products from European suppliers very competitive as there are no customs duties applied. Customs and shipping fees of American products makes the comparison challenging.
 

Upcoming Trade Events:

CairoICT, November 22-25, 2025

For more information on the ICT Sector, contact:

Dina Bissada
Commercial Specialist
U.S. Embassy Cairo