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The advisor to the president for local development and chairman of the National Committee for the Protection and Development of Historic Cairo, Dr. Khaled Fouda, along with Cairo Governor Dr. Ibrahim Saber, conducted an inspection tour to follow up on the development work in the Khedivial Cairo area. This inspection tour aligns with the directives of the political leadership to swiftly revive the area, preserve its heritage, and restore its vital role in reflecting its unique architectural and urban character.

The tour included an inspection of the renovation work on the buildings along Talaat Harb Street, which is currently underway as part of the third phase of the Khedivial Cairo development project. This phase extends from Tahrir Square to Talaat Harb Square, where the restoration of building facades has been completed, and work is ongoing to standardize the shop signs.

Advisor Fouda and Governor Saber were accompanied by Deputy Cairo Governor Ibrahim Abdel Hadi, Assistant Advisor to the President for Local Development Dr. Abdullah El-Sherif, and several officials from the Cairo Governorate.

Advisor Fouda urged swift completion of the ongoing work according to the planned schedules.

Governor Saber stated that the Khedivial Cairo development project aims to bring about a qualitative transformation in downtown Cairo by enhancing its visual appeal and architectural character. This will be accomplished by preserving the facades of its distinctive buildings, eliminating all distortions, and organizing the signage of commercial stores in a way that aligns with the overall character of the area.

Governor Saber stated that the development project consists of four phases. The first phase, which includes Tahrir Square, has been completed. The second phase covers Talaat Harb Square, Mustafa Kamel Square, and the section of Qasr El-Nil Street between these two squares; this phase has also been completed. The third phase comprises two sections: the first is Opera Square, and the second is the segment of Talaat Harb Street between Talaat Harb Square and Tahrir Square, which is currently in progress. The fourth phase, set to begin soon, extends along Qasr El-Nil Street, including Mustafa Kamel Square and Opera Square. It also includes a section extending from Talaat Harb Square to 26th of July Street and another section from 26th of July Street to Opera Square.

Following the tour, Advisor Fouda, accompanied by Governor Saber and Deputy Abdel Hadi, held a meeting to review the executive measures taken to revive and operate the Groppi store in Talaat Harb Square, as well as the building housing it. This initiative is part of the state's efforts to revitalize the Khedivial Cairo area and restore its distinctive features.

During the meeting, the implementation rates of the development project were reviewed based on the study prepared by the National Center for Housing and Building Research.

Moreover, Saber emphasized the Governorate's commitment to supporting all efforts aimed at restoring "Groppi,” given it is a part of the capital's memory in the Khedivial area.