What is the project about? 

The UN House in Egypt is a landmark partnership between the Government of Egypt and the United Nations that will bring together 31 UN entities under one roof, strengthening coordination, efficiency, and joint impact.

Constructed by the Government of Egypt as an in-kind contribution, the building will be provided rent-free for 99 years. Located in the Diplomatic District of Egypt’s New Administrative Capital, the UN House will cover approximately 100,000 square meters on an 80,000-square-meter plot, hosting around 2,600 UN personnel.  

Situational Background

Egypt is home to both UN Country Offices and Regional Offices, representing a wide range of mandates that contribute to national and regional development agendas. As Egypt’s New Administrative Capital emerges as the centre of public administration and diplomacy the UN House’s strategic location within the Diplomatic District will place the UN in close proximity to key ministries, government institutions, and international missions.

This proximity will enhance policy dialogue, coordination, and joint programming, ensuring greater alignment between Egypt’s national priorities and the Sustainable Development Goals. 

In line with the General Assembly’s resolution on the UN Development System reform and the Efficiency Agenda, the UN House will also streamline UN operations, reduce costs, enhance inter-agency collaboration, and enable a more coherent presence in Egypt.  

How are we doing this?

The UN House project began in 2018, following discussions between the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the United Nations on establishing a consolidated UN facility in Egypt. Construction, led by the Engineering Authority of the Egyptian Armed Forces, started in 2023, with completion expected by the end of 2026, with move-in projected for 2027. 

To date, the structural works for the main building, rear parking, and service facilities  (including water, and fuel tanks) are complete, and brick façade works are nearing completion. 

The project is being implemented under joint UN-Government coordination, ensuring that the facility reflects both global UN standards and Egypt’s architectural and environmental context. 

As the lead agency for the construction phase, UNDP supports the project through:

• Overall project and legal agreements coordination
• Government engagement and stakeholder liaison
• Daily operations management
• Coordination of technical inputs across stakeholders 

How will Egypt benefit?  

1. Enhanced multilateral cooperation: Hosting both Country and Regional Offices, the UN House will enable stronger coordination of UN programmes that advance Egypt’s development priorities and regional engagement.
2. Local Economic Opportunities: The project creates employment and business opportunities during construction and operation phases through, service, maintenance and logistics contracts.
3. Increased International Visibility: The new facility will host international events, conferences, and delegations, enhancing Egypt’s role as a regional hub for diplomacy and sustainable development.