RiseUp Summit 2025 kicked off with high energy at the stunning Grand Egyptian Museum and is now buzzing with news of a Free Zone plan. Marking its 12th edition as a major hub for innovation, entrepreneurship, and global networking.
Under the auspices of Prime Minister Dr. Mostafa Madbouly, the event brought together a vibrant mix of startups, investors, and ecosystem builders. Backed by the Ministerial Committee for Entrepreneurship and other key government bodies, RiseUp is cementing Egypt’s place on the global startup map.
Spotlight on Startups – Free Zones with Zero Taxes
In a major announcement during the summit, Mr. Hossam Heiba, CEO of the General Authority for Investment and Free Zones (GAFI), revealed a powerful new initiative: service-exporting startups can now operate in free zones with full tax and customs exemptions.
Key Highlights of the Free Zone Plan Initiative:
- âś… 100% customs and tax exemption for eligible startups
- âś… Focus on software exports and AI-driven businesses
- âś… 9,000 sqm of ready-to-use office space
- âś… Support from marketing, legal, and consulting service firms
This move helps to attract local and international investment. Additionally, it also helps position Egypt as a hub for tech exports and AI innovation.
Empowering Innovation at Every Level
Speaking during the session “Empowering Startups: Government Supportive Policies,” Mr. Heiba emphasized Egypt’s commitment to fueling the startup ecosystem with tangible support.
He also revealed that a new law is set to be passed this year to regulate financial and business zones. In particular, to encourage the creation of venture capital funds. The goal? Mobilize local and global financing for fast-growing Egyptian startups.
A Historic Venue for a Future-Focused Summit
Once again, RiseUp 2025 was hosted at the iconic Grand Egyptian Museum, in collaboration with Legacy Development and Management, a subsidiary of Hassan Allam Holding.
The summit drew thousands of participants, showcasing Egypt’s growing global reputation as a startup and innovation hub.
Powered by Global Partnerships
The summit wouldn’t be what it is without its impressive lineup of partners:
- Main Partner: Grand Egyptian Museum
- Growth Partner: Madinet Masr
- Digital Partner: TikTok LIVE
- Innovation Partner: Orange Business
- Content Partner: Mastercard
And that’s not all. Other supporters included Parkville, Juhayna, Deloitte, MO4, Entlaq, ASB, Paymob, and more — each contributing to the event’s dynamic energy and value.
Why It Matters
The RiseUp Summit continues to be a launchpad for Egypt’s tech-driven future. With the new free zone initiative, supportive legislation on the horizon, and growing investor attention, Egypt is laying down the infrastructure to become a global hotspot for startups.
From AI to fintech and beyond, the future looks bright — and it’s being built right now in Cairo.