Tree-Cutting Is Now Banned in Egypt's New Cities

Housing Minister Randa El-Menshawy has ordered a complete ban on tree-cutting across Egypt’s new cities and instructed authorities to protect existing trees, green spaces and public parks.

The directives require new-city authorities to take legal action against violations and prevent encroachment on, damage to or repurposing of green areas along neighbourhood streets and major roads. Officials were also instructed to expand tree-planting, increase green spaces and carry out regular maintenance of landscaping and irrigation networks.

Continuous field inspections will be used to identify and address unauthorised activity affecting green areas, with compliance monitored by the development and utilities sectors of the New Urban Communities Authority.

The measures come as the government begins implementing the Greening Cairo project, which includes tree-planting along the Ring Road and other major routes.

The decision follows renewed debate over tree removal linked to road and urban development projects. The latest case involved trees removed from Gameat Al-Dewal Al-Arabia Street in Mohandessin, which authorities said would be replaced after traffic diversions were completed.

El-Menshawy said preserving green spaces and improving quality of life in new cities are among her priorities, while development projects must follow approved planning, technical and legal procedures.

The New Urban Communities Authority is also responsible for part of the national 100 Million Trees initiative and has been assigned to plant seven million trees by the end of fiscal year 2028/29. More than 635,000 trees were planted during the initiative’s first six months, mainly along major roads and traffic axes.