Misr Hotels to Redevelop Iconic Omar Effendi Building in Cairo

Misr Hotels has announced plans to transform the historic Omar Effendi building in Cairo’s Heliopolis district into a four-star hotel. The redevelopment is part of a broader national strategy to modernize Egypt’s tourism infrastructure while safeguarding iconic architecture.

A Symbol of Egyptian Commercial History

First constructed in 1856 as part of the Austro-Hungarian-owned Orosdi-Back department store chain, the building was acquired in 1921 and rebranded as Omar Effendi, becoming one of Egypt’s most renowned retail landmarks throughout the 20th century.

Located in Heliopolis, an area celebrated for its rich urban fabric and architectural elegance, the building remains a standout example of Egypt’s early modern commercial design. Despite its historical prominence, the structure has seen limited use in recent decades, making its transformation into a hotel both timely and strategic.

Redevelopment Plan and Execution

The conversion project will begin with:

• Regulatory and executive approvals to repurpose the building
• A full feasibility study covering technical, financial, and market factors, conducted by a firm registered with the Central Bank of Egypt
• A structural assessment to evaluate safety and restoration requirements
• A detailed project timeline outlining key development milestones

This multi-phase approach ensures that both the integrity of the heritage site and the demands of a modern four-star hotel are met.

Misr Hotels Expands Its Portfolio

Misr Hotels operates under the umbrella of the Holding Company for Tourism, Hotels, and Trade. It manages major properties including the Nile Ritz-Carlton Cairo and Safir Dahab Resort.

In the first nine months of its fiscal year 2024/2025, the company reported revenues of approximately $29.6 million USD (EGP 1.42 billion), up from $20.9 million USD (EGP 1.003 billion) in the same period of the previous year. This 42% increase underscores its growth momentum and reinforces confidence in its latest heritage redevelopment venture.

Preserving Heritage, Expanding Hospitality

The Omar Effendi project aligns with Egypt’s national tourism and urban revitalization goals, which focus on:

• Adaptive reuse of heritage structures
• Strengthening the mid-tier hotel sector
• Expanding cultural tourism offerings in major cities like Cairo and Alexandria

The upcoming hotel will cater to a growing segment of travelers seeking authentic, historically rooted experiences—whether leisure tourists, business guests, or regional visitors.

What the Four-Star Hotel May Offer

Though final design details are yet to be released, expectations for the new hotel include:

• Restoration of key historical façades and internal design elements
• Premium four-star guest amenities
• Potential for ground-floor retail, café, or cultural spaces
• A location with excellent proximity to central Cairo attractions and transportation

Beyond its commercial potential, the Omar Effendi redevelopment is expected to serve as a flagship model for heritage-led development. It demonstrates how aging buildings can be reimagined for modern use without erasing their historical value, a theme that resonates strongly with both the public and private sectors across Egypt.