ABSTRACT
This chapter explains Cairo’s location and administrative system, development patterns, population growth and resulting problems, and governmental efforts to manage urban growth. Cairo’s growth patterns and planning policies have been shaped by eras of Muslim dynasties, colonialization, liberalization, and independence. Its rich history and steady expansion represent both opportunities and challenges to urban planners and policymakers. The modern Cairo City contains ancient towns that were combined to make a megacity with multiple urban centers and diverse social and economic characteristics. Planned residential areas comply with Egyptian building regulations and have urban services and infrastructure. Egyptian regulations strive to protect agricultural land from urban expansion and assure the quality and safety of the built environment. The major goal of creating new urban communities is to provide housing, investment, and employment opportunities to the growing population. The Egyptian government has adopted an ambitious program to construct new cities in the desert and direct urban growth outside existing communities.
