Egypt Ministry of Housing closes old rent alternative housing applications

The Egyptian Ministry of Housing, Utilities and Urban Communities, through the Social Housing and Mortgage Finance Fund, has officially closed the application period for alternative housing for tenants under the old rent system as of Monday, October 12, 2026.

Minister Randa El-Menshawy stated that the data verification and auditing phase for submitted applications is expected to take between three to six months. Following this period, eligible citizens will be notified of the next steps. The ministry's current focus remains on two primary segments: low-income and middle-income groups.

To assist young professionals such as engineers, lawyers, and teachers who may struggle with large upfront payments, the ministry has introduced a ‘rent-to-own’ system. This model allows for gradual ownership through integrated monthly payments. For recent offerings, the total monthly cost can reach approximately 13,000 EGP, split between a rental component and an ownership installment of roughly 6,500 EGP each.

To qualify for the alternative housing initiative, applicants must meet specific criteria, including not owning any residential property or land, not having previously benefited from state-supported housing, and providing proof of legal status via an old rent contract under Law No. 136 of 1981.