Egypt to launch first medical tourism investment zone in May 2026: GAFI

Egypt’s first investment zone dedicated to medical tourism is set to begin operations in May 2026, covering 40 feddans along the Nile in Giza Governorate, the head of the country’s investment authority announced on Friday.

The zone aims to create a world-class model for medical tourism, a sector where Egypt has key competitive advantages, including established healthcare services and a thriving tourism industry.

Hossam Heiba, CEO of the General Authority for Investment and Free Zones (GAFI), made the announcement during his participation in the 3rd Global Congress on Population, Health, and Human Development (PHDC’25) organised by the Ministry of Health and Population.

Heiba noted that medical tourism presents highly attractive investment opportunities, combining the country’s strengths in both tourism and healthcare, which are experiencing rising domestic and international demand. GAFI will manage licensing on behalf of investors and operate a government platform that issues permits from 42 entities within 20 working days to streamline operations.

The project builds on a 2024 agreement between Heiba and Mohamed Karrar, Chairman of Maxim Investment Group, to develop and operate the Naya Wellness Resort within the Al-Saf Investment Zone. The resort will be Egypt’s first facility of its kind, supporting the government’s plan to attract healthcare investment.

Karrar said Maxim Group plans to implement a comprehensive medical tourism system covering every stage of a visitor’s journey, requiring ongoing collaboration with government agencies to build sector expertise.

The Ministry of Health and Population also announced the launch of a unified online platform for medical tourism visas, enabling applicants to submit requests and receive responses within 72 hours.

Attribution: Amwal Al Ghad English

Subediting: Y.Yasser