Egypt takes big step toward financial transparency and inclusion

The Egyptian government ceased financial transactions by paper checks this month and implemented a new electronic payment and collection system, although only 10% of citizens have relationships with banks.

Egypt

Mystery surrounds former Egyptian premier's return to Cairo

Former Egyptian Prime Minister Ahmed Shafiq returned to Cairo from the UAE after announcing his intention to run in the upcoming presidential elections, yet questions remain surrounding his return.

United Arab Emirates

Independent Egyptian film reaps awards but not box office profits

The box office failure of "Withered Green," one of the most-decorated Egyptian films internationally, came as no surprise to some critics.

Egypt

Egypt ups political steps to counter Ethiopia over water crisis

Egypt is holding on to political escalation in the coming phase to face the Renaissance Dam crisis after the failure of negotiations with Ethiopia.

Egypt

Doha's overtures unlikely to lure Cairo from Gulf bloc

Recent statements by Qatari officials reflect a shift in Doha’s stance toward Egypt, but Cairo is unlikely to take any steps toward reconciliation without approval from the Gulf countries blockading Qatar.

Qatar

Can Hamas agree to prisoner swap with Israel?

Egypt pushes Hamas to send Israel some signs, signaling that it is ready for a prisoner-exchange deal.

Palestine

Should Egypt arm Sinai tribes to confront extremists?

The November attack on Al-Rawdah Mosque in the Sinai Peninsula has led to mounting calls for the arming of tribes, but not all tribes think that would be a good move.

Egypt

How Egyptian public workers will stay warm this winter

An initiative to allow Egyptian public sector employees to buy winter clothes and pay in installments amid soaring prices could revive the stagnating garment sector.

Egypt

Cairo Opera House embraces change with world artists, new music

Cairo's venerable opera house is working to restore its past glory and lost audiences by expanding its program.

Egypt

Israel 'will not blink' on Iranian missiles

The Israel Defense Forces set new red lines for Iran; Erdogan still waiting for Russian dividend on Kurds; Russia expands use of private military companies in Syria; the Islamic State and al-Qaeda at war in the Sinai Peninsula.

Egypt

Why Egypt is now getting involved in South Sudan

Egypt oversaw the successful signing of a deal to unify the Sudan People's Liberation Movement after it achieved similar foreign policy successes in neighboring countries such as Palestine and Libya.

Palestine

Culture Alert: Fashion, books and photography in December

The Middle Eastern cultural calendar for the end of the year includes a book fair in Beirut, a modest-dress fashion event in Dubai and a cartoon biennial in Tehran.

Egypt