In a major shift aimed at accelerating Egypt’s startup ecosystem, Hossam Heiba, CEO of the General Authority for Investment and Free Zones (GAFI), announced that (for the first time) public free zones will host the headquarters of service-sector startups focused on export.
Revealed during the opening session of the RiseUp Summit 2025 under the theme “Empowering Startups: Government-Supported Policies,” the move grants eligible startups access to customs and tax exemptions and streamlined operational procedures.
The announcement was made in the presence of top government officials and ecosystem leaders including Rasha Abdel Aal (Egyptian Tax Authority), Sherif El-Kilany (Deputy Minister of Finance for Tax Policy), and Dr. Tamer Taha (Innovation Advisor at the Ministry of Planning).
Heiba emphasized that 9,000 square meters of administrative and operational space are now available for these startups.
The initiative targets companies working on software exports, AI solutions, and service providers such as legal, consulting, and marketing firms, crucial for helping Egyptian startups scale globally.
Streamlined Registration, Global Expansion Support, and New VC Law
Heiba also outlined broader efforts by the General Authority for Investment and Free Zones to create a competitive startup environment, highlighting the role of the “Bedaya” Center, Egypt Ventures, and GAFI’s Permanent Unit for Entrepreneurship and Startups in unifying ecosystem efforts and reducing friction for founders.
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Among the perks now available to entrepreneurs in the free zones include:
- Electronic company registration in under two hours
- VIP services at Investor Service Centers, free of charge
- Dedicated fast-track support for startup licensing and operations
The General Authority for Investment and Free Zones is also coordinating with the EU, Saudi Arabia, and Morocco to facilitate Egyptian startup expansion into these markets, backed by administrative support and protection from double taxation and trade barriers.
Finally, Heiba previewed a forthcoming Law on the Establishment and Regulation of Financial and Business Zones, slated for release in 2025.
The law will support Egypt’s ambitions to become a regional hub for investment funds, particularly venture capital, boosting both local and foreign financing for startups.
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