DP World has signed a partnership agreement to develop an integrated industrial and residential zone at Sokhna in Egypt.
The project will complement the Egyptian government’s plans to develop the Suez Canal Corridor.
It will cover 95 square kilometres and include industrial and residential areas coupled with the development of Sokhna Port, increasing its capacity and linking it to the industrial zone.
DP World will manage the joint venture, scheduled for the first quarter of 2018, in a stake split of 51% to SCZone and 49% to DP World.
It will feature a range of investment incentives and encourage innovation using best international practice in the management of Special Economic Zones (SEZs), free zones, ports, and logistic hubs based on DP World’s global experience.
The project will also promote the development of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), create job opportunities and provide training for young Egyptians adding value to the economy.
The residential area will be able to accommodate 500,000 people.
Learn about why the original Suez Canal was opened in 1869 and still remains one of the greatest feats of the maritime industry in the technical paper 'New Suez Canal Project: A Logistics Journey' by The International Association of Dredging Companies
Admiral Mohab Mamish, Chairman of the Suez Canal Authority and Chairman of the Suez Canal Economic Zone (SCZone), and Sultan Ahmed Bin Sulayem, Group Chairman and CEO, DP World, signed the agreement in the presence of Sherif Ismail, the Prime Minister of Egypt.
Bin Sulayem, said: “This partnership demonstrates the commitment of DP World to support the growth of Egypt’s economy and reflects the trust we place in the determination of the government to make the project a success.
“The development of the zone will support the sustainable growth of the country and help it attract more business investment.
“It will also help transform the Suez Canal into a major trade and business hub in the region, given its strategic location and role as an artery for global trade.
“We are looking forward to working with the SCZone through this joint venture to develop the project using our international expertise and know-how of trade and logistics across six continents, to add value to the Egyptian economy and leave a legacy for future generations.”
Admiral Mohab Mamish, Chairman of the Suez Canal Authority and Chairman of the Suez Canal Economic Zone (SCZone), said: This signing builds on the historic relations between Egypt and the UAE and is aligned with the vision of President Sisi for the development of trade in the region.
“The project includes a comprehensive economic zone in Sokhna including an industrial free zone and a number of development projects that will boost the national economy and create jobs for Egyptian youth.
“Today’s signing concludes months of work of the joint committee that has been working closely with the leadership of both countries and consultants to make this happen. This is an important step in Egypt’s industrial and economic growth journey, while taking advantage of the strategic location of the Suez Canal.”
