Smart and sustainable urban development in Egypt: the case of Nabta Smart Town

Abstract

Abstract Nabta Smart Town (NST), in New Borg el Arab, close to Alexandria, is an ambitious project under planning that includes residential and commercial facilities, in combination with high quality “Educational Magnets” capable of creating a dynamic community and generating all sorts of interesting activities. Therefore, the uniqueness of NST is building a fully integrated and inclusive neighbourhood - Educational Magnet, Residential, Commercial (shopping, leisure and entertainment), with Administrative Offices (including high-end security). The initial conceptualization of NST by the local promoters envisions a culture that protects, maintains and recycles within the community. The collaboration of VTT Technical Research Centre of Finland Ltd. (VTT) was sought to ensure that the Master Plan (MP) and the buildings of the University, as well as the Residential and Commercial facilities of NST comply with the standards of a modern EcoCity adapted to the Egyptian context. The first phase of the work focuses mainly on carrying an EcoCity Energy Efficiency Feasibility Assessment. Specific methodologies and tools developed by VTT have been used to ensure adaptation of the solutions proposed to the local conditions. This paper discusses the results obtained using the methodology developed by VTT, its applicability at different scales, as well as its replicability potential - not only in other locations in Egypt, but also worldwide.