Egypt launches digital public shop licensing service

Egypt's Ministry of Local Development and Environment, led by Dr. Manal Awad, introduced a new electronic service for public shop licenses on the Egypt Digital platform. Within days of the launch, the ministry began field inspections in Gharbia governorate, visiting technology centers in Zefta, Kafr El‑Zayat, and the two districts of Tanta to verify system performance and staff readiness. The initial rollout resulted in the issuance of 120 settlement forms and 24 building permits, demonstrating the service’s operational stability.

Separate inspections in Port Said identified 556 pending licensing requests and 250 files still under review. The minister issued urgent directives to clear the backlog, improve cleanliness, and ensure fire‑safety systems are functional. Both visits emphasized coordination with the Ministry of Planning and Economic Development, training of personnel, and the broader goal of simplifying procedures, reducing processing time, and enhancing the business environment through digital governance.