Our Story
Who we are
Al Ismaelia at a Glance
The grandeur of Downtown Cairo is not just a memory of the past, it is a living story waiting to be retold. At Al Ismaelia for Real Estate Investment, we believe this story belongs to all Egyptians, and we are proud to share it with generations today and tomorrow.
Since 2008, we have been at the forefront of a movement to revive the Egyptian identity by restoring Downtown Cairo’s 150-year legacy first envisioned by Khedive Ismail. With care and vision, we preserve the district’s historic gems while reimagining them as vibrant, mixed-use spaces where people can live, work, and connect. This seamless blend of heritage and modernity has made Al Ismaelia the first company of its kind dedicated to the revival of Cairo’s urban heart.
Guided by the expertise of our management partners, BPE Partners, Today, our portfolio includes 25 signature Buildings, each a cornerstone in our vision for “A Downtown for All.”
Our Achievements
Numbers that Tell Our Story
Preserved Landmarks
Restored Landmarks
Tenants
Event Nights in Downtown
Our Vision
Our vision is to be a trusted catalyst for changing the timeless spirit of Downtown Cairo and reimagining it as a vibrant destination for all. Guided by passion and purpose, we are shaping a new benchmark for urban renewal in Egypt and across the Middle East, blending heritage with innovation to inspire thriving, inclusive communities.
Our Driving Mission
Our mission is to breathe new life into Downtown Cairo by honoring its historic grandeur while unlocking its modern potential. Through the careful preservation of heritage buildings and the thoughtful creation of mixed-use spaces, we bring together people, culture, commerce, and community.
We are committed to shaping an inclusive and sustainable Downtown that enriches everyday life for the public, fosters creativity for new generations, and builds enduring value for our investors and partners. By working hand in hand with government and civic stakeholders, we ensure that Downtown Cairo remains a vibrant hub of opportunity, resilience, and inspiration, standing as a symbol of Egypt’s enduring spirit.
Our Goals
Setting Downtown Cairo as Egypt’s investment beacon, as well as an attractive touristic destination by introducing authentic heritage through a contemporary vision that would appeal to diverse segments and market needs.
Preserve & Protect
Safeguard Downtown Cairo’s architectural heritage through authentic, sustainable restoration.
Revive & Reimagine
Transform historic properties into vibrant, mixed-use spaces that meet modern needs.
Foster Community Life
Create inclusive spaces where people can live, work, and connect across generations.
Attract Investment
Position Downtown Cairo as Egypt’s leading hub for cultural, commercial, and real estate investment.
Build Partnerships
Collaborate with government, investors, and local stakeholders to ensure long-term growth and impact.
Inspire Future Generations
Make Downtown Cairo a symbol of pride and innovation for Egyptians today and tomorrow.
Our Values
Authenticity - An Authentic tribute to Egypt’s golden days
We honor Cairo’s golden legacy with care, ensuring every step we take reflects its true spirit.
Inclusivity - A clear vision of a ”Downtown For All”
We believe in diversity through the creation of an all‐inclusive cosmopolitan Downtown that is welcoming ever individual and community, irrespective of their needs or socioeconomic backgrounds.
Sustainability - Developing for a brighter future
We build with tomorrow in mind, balancing business progress with environmental and cultural responsibility. Meeting our goals without depleting our natural resources or harming our heritage.
Partnerships - Believing renewal is a shared responsibility
We collaborate with government, investors, and the public as one united force for renewal.
Trust & Reliability - The True Impact is built on Trust
We act with integrity, transparency, and dedication to lasting impact.
Innovation - Breathing new spirits into Downtown
We breathe new ideas into historic spaces, shaping the Downtown of tomorrow.
Al Ismaelia
Board Members
Karim Shafei
Chairman and CEO
Hazem Barakat
Vice Chairman
Samih Onsi Sawiris
Board Member
Aladdin Hassouna Saba
Board Member
Karim Saada
Board Member
Ammar Al Khudairy
Board Member
Al Ismaelia
Executive Members
Philopateer Dimitri
Deputy CEO
Aliaa Hassan
Head of Human Resources
Mohamed Hassan
Chief Development Officer
Ashraf Elbakly
Government Relations Manager
Aya Fouda
Head of Marketing
Eslam Haggag
Head of Operations
Karim ElMallah
Head of Finance
Youssef Aboutera
Strategy & Business Development Manager
Mohamed Yehia
Procurement Manager
Michael Ayad
Financial Planning & Analysis Manager
Revival
Landmarks that
tell our story
2008
29 Hoda Shaarawi
2009
Nabarawy Fashion Hub
2009
Tamara Haus
2010
Layal
2009
La Viennoise
2008
Kodak
2014
Consoleya
2009
Cinema Radio
2009
36 Abdelkhalek Tharwat
2010
33 Sherif
2009
22 Farida
2009
10 Mahmoud Bassiouny
2008
El Shourbagy