Watan-In a visit described in the media as “brotherly,” leaked information attributed to a well-known account named “Emirati Minister” on Platform X (formerly Twitter) sparked a storm of controversy. The leak revealed that Mohammed bin Zayed’s visit to Cairo aimed to finalize a deal involving the sale of one of the pillars of Egypt’s economic sovereignty: Banque du Caire.
According to the controversial account, the deal would grant Emirates NBD—the economic arm of Abu Dhabi—a significant stake in Banque du Caire, Egypt’s third-largest state-owned bank, which holds assets exceeding 250 billion Egyptian pounds.
Details of the Controversial Deal:
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Banque du Caire has a strategic branch network that spans most Egyptian governorates, including Arish and Sinai, giving it importance beyond traditional banking operations.
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The deal would effectively end Egyptian control over one of the country’s most critical financial institutions and give the UAE a foothold in Egypt’s sovereign economic structure.
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The bank plays a key role in financing national infrastructure and development projects, allowing the Emirati side potential indirect influence over Egypt’s public policy.
Parliament Reacts:
MP Ahmed Bilal El-Borolosy submitted an urgent statement in the Egyptian parliament, warning that the deal represents a “direct threat to financial national security.” He demanded transparency regarding the agreement and accountability for those attempting to push it through in secret.
Why This Bank in Particular?
According to the leaks, Banque du Caire:
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Enables the UAE to influence government lending and financial policy.
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Finances strategic projects such as ports and infrastructure.
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Is being sold as part of a wider privatization plan pushed by the International Monetary Fund, with the UAE at the front of the buyers’ list.
UAE Backs Sisi to Secure Its Interests:
The visit, according to the same source, carries a hidden agenda that goes beyond economics to include regional political files, with Abu Dhabi aiming to:
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Complete its control over vital Egyptian assets, following prior acquisitions in hotels and ports.
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Provide financial support to the Egyptian regime to ensure the passage of future deals.
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Use Egypt as a legal front for Emirati influence in sensitive issues like Gaza, Sudan, and Libya.
What’s Next?
Amid official silence and a clear lack of media coverage, concerns are mounting about yet another concession of Egypt’s economic sovereignty—at a time when the country is under growing financial pressure and the UAE’s reach is systematically expanding into its key sectors.
Will the Banque du Caire deal be the “last straw” for Egypt’s struggling economy?
Will parliament or national forces step in to stop this trajectory?
The coming days will tell.
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