How a future Gaza would look under Egypt’s $53bn plan

Egypt’s $53bn plan for the reconstruction of Gaza, backed by the Arab League on Tuesday, has an ambitious vision for the architectural future of the war-ravaged Palestinian enclave.

The 91-page plan, shared with Middle East Eye by officials ahead of the extraordinary Arab summit, proposes a new urban character for Gaza’s post-war architecture, blending Palestinian heritage with modern technology and designs.

It was a counter-proposal to US President Donald Trump’s declaration last month that he intends to take over Gaza and turn it into a tourism hub while displacing its Palestinian population.

The Egyptian plan, on the other hand, rejects the displacement of Palestinians and seeks to redevelop the enclave without depopulating it.

“Rooted like an olive tree, unwavering, and everlasting” is the motto for the vision.

“The olive tree is not just a plant; it symbolises resilience and heritage in Palestinian culture. With roots that run deep into the earth, it clings firmly despite hardships, reflecting the strength of Palestinian identity and its deep connection to the land,” the document reads.

According to the plan, the proposed architectural design elements include the use of the Jerusalem stone, a type of limestone used in the construction of buildings in Jerusalem and surrounding areas.

It also uses pointed arches, a distinctive architectural feature in Palestine used in mosques and churches, along with domes and vaults. 

Residential buildings

The residential buildings, according to the plan, are inspired by Arab and Islamic heritage, with a modern twist.

 

It incorporates modern designs that ensure “comfort and sustainability”, while using “traditional building materials” such as natural stone. Planning strategies will seek to promote “social interaction and cultural identity”, the plan says.

Service sector

Like residential buildings, the architectural design of the service sector incorporates modern and traditional elements.

“The use of limestone or white concrete reflects the local Arab architectural style while reducing heat absorption, improving energy efficiency within buildings,” the plan states.

 

“Repeated arches in windows and facades create a distinctive Islamic aesthetic while allowing for efficient natural lighting, reducing the need for artificial lighting during the day.”

Showing what appears to be a university building, the plan proposes “multi-purpose courtyards” to serve as “dynamic social and activity hubs for students”.

“Emphasis on natural materials and large openings ensures a harmonious blend of historical identity and modern construction standards, creating a distinctive and sustainable educational environment,” it adds.

Government buildings

Government buildings are also “crafted to reflect a modern and sustainable work environment that aligns with smart architecture standards and environmental integration”.

 

Industrial and agricultural areas

The plan envisages “sustanable” designs for industrial and agricultural areas.

 

“The design follows the principles of green development and sustainable manufacturing, ensuring harmony between environmental preservation and industrial efficiency,” the document says.

Temporary housing

The plan’s early recovery phase includes the building of temporary housing units for approximately 1.5 million displaced people. The houses will be made of sea containers and each unit will house an average of six people.