Introduction

In the maturation of any global city, there comes a point where real estate transcends mere functionality to become an expression of culture and innovation. New Cairo has reached that pivot point with the introduction of the Cairo Design District (CDD). Developed by the visionary LMD (Landmark Sabbour), CDD is not simply another commercial complex in the Fifth Settlement; it is a specialized enclave designed to be the beating heart of Egypt’s creative economy.

Situated within the illustrious One Ninety mixed-use development, CDD breaks the mold of traditional “malls.” It is a curated ecosystem where global fashion, culinary arts, and high-end corporate workspaces converge. For the international investor or the discerning business owner, CDD offers a rare opportunity: the chance to own a stake in a destination that rivals the design districts of Dubai, London, and Milan. This project is engineered for those who understand that in modern real estate, “experience” is the highest currency.

Project Highlights

• Developer: LMD (Landmark Sabbour) – A regional leader with projects in Egypt, Dubai, and Barcelona.
• Master Plan: Part of the “One Ninety” mega-project.
• Location: Directly on South 90th Street, Fifth Settlement (Plot 1).
• Project Concept: A Global Design & Innovation Hub (Retail & Admin).
• Total Area: Approx. 345,000 sqm.
• Unit Types: Grade-A Administrative Offices, Luxury Retail, Creative Lofts, Medical Clinics.
• Unit Sizes: Starting from 120 sqm up to 540 sqm.
• Starting Price: From 7,400,000 EGP (Approx).
• Payment Plan: 5% Down Payment, installments over 7 Years.
• Delivery Date: Anticipated 2026.

Location & Accessibility

The Strategic Gateway to New Cairo

For any commercial asset, visibility is the primary driver of value. Cairo Design District commands arguably the most prestigious plot in New Cairo: Plot 1 on the South 90th Street. This is the “Fifth Avenue” of Cairo, serving as the main artery for business and leisure.

CDD serves as the gateway to the massive One Ninety project, positioning it at the intersection of the Ring Road and the 90th Street axis. This ensures seamless connectivity for employees commuting from across the capital and high footfall for retail tenants.

Key Connectivity Metrics:

• The Academic Zone: A mere 5-minute drive to the American University in Cairo (AUC) and Future University, ensuring a steady stream of affluent students and faculty.
• Global Connectivity: Only 15 minutes to Cairo International Airport, a crucial factor for multinational HQs and visiting international brands.
• Residential Catchment: Situated 10 minutes from Al Rehab City and 20 minutes from Heliopolis, bridging the gap between old and new Cairo.
• Business Neighbors: Adjacent to the Banking Sector and major multinational headquarters, placing your business in the center of the financial district.

Developer Overview: LMD (Landmark Sabbour)

A Legacy of Cross-Border Excellence

Investing in off-plan commercial real estate requires unwavering trust in the developer’s vision and financial stability. LMD stands as a titan in the industry, led by the renowned Sabbour family, a name synonymous with engineering excellence in Egypt for decades.

LMD differentiates itself by expanding beyond local borders. With a portfolio that includes the Continental Tower in Dubai and boutique developments in Barcelona, Spain, they bring a global standard of finish and facility management to their Egyptian projects.

Notable Portfolio:

• One Ninety: The mixed-use destination hosting W Cairo Hotel and St. Regis Residences.
• Stei8ht: A luxury residential community in New Cairo.
• Three Sixty: A premier business park on the Golden Square.
• Zoya: A coastal retreat in the North Coast.

Full Project Description & Design Philosophy

Where Form Meets Function

The architectural ethos of the Cairo Design District is rooted in “functional art.” LMD collaborated with world-class consultants to create a space that inspires creativity rather than stifling it. The district is not a monolithic block; it is a fluid composition of structures designed to maximize natural light, airflow, and human interaction.

The Scale of Ambition:

Spanning a colossal 345,000 square meters, the project allocates nearly 199,000 sqm to built-up areas, leaving a vast expanse for open-air plazas, art installations, and botanical landscapes.

The Experience:

• Glass Facades: The buildings feature floor-to-ceiling glass curtains, offering panoramic views of the South 90th Street and the internal piazzas.
• The Creative Ecosystem: The layout encourages “collisions” between industries—fashion designers next to tech startups, art galleries next to Michelin-star concept restaurants. It is designed to be a cultural hub, not just a workplace.
• Psychological Design: The abundance of green spaces and water features is intentional, aimed at reducing corporate stress and increasing employee retention for tenant companies.

Unit Types & Areas

Spaces Tailored for Industry Leaders

CDD offers a diverse inventory designed to accommodate everything from boutique agencies to multinational headquarters. The floor plans are flexible, allowing for open-concept layouts that modern businesses demand.

1. Administrative Offices & Creative Lofts:

• Concept: Grade-A workspaces equipped with smart infrastructure.
• Sizes: Ranging from 120 sqm to 540 sqm.
• Suitability: Ideal for regional headquarters, design studios, law firms, and tech companies.

2. Luxury Retail & Showrooms:

• Concept: Double-height spaces with maximum street visibility.
• Target Tenants: Global fashion houses, automotive showrooms, and furniture design galleries.

3. Medical Clinics:

• Concept: Specialized units designed for premium healthcare providers, benefiting from the high-traffic location.

Facilities & Amenities

Infrastructure for the Future

LMD has integrated “Smart City” technology into the fabric of CDD to ensure operational efficiency and a seamless visitor experience.

• Advanced Security: Biometric access controls, 24/7 surveillance, and manned security patrols ensure a safe environment for high-value businesses.
• Smart Parking: A massive underground parking facility equipped with license plate recognition and guidance systems to eliminate congestion.
• The Entertainment Zone: Features state-of-the-art cinema halls and an open-air amphitheater for cultural events and product launches.
• Business Support: Fully equipped conference centers and meeting rooms available for tenants, reducing the need for wasted office square footage.
• Global F&B Promenade: A curated selection of international restaurants and cafes, offering fine dining and casual business lunch options.
• Sustainability: Central air conditioning with energy-efficient systems, fire suppression technology, and solar energy integration for common areas.

Prices & Payment Plans

A Strategic Entry Point

Disclaimer: Prices are subject to market fluctuations. The figures below are indicative of the current phase.

Investing in CDD is investing in “Blue Chip” real estate. While the entry price reflects the premium nature of the asset, the potential for capital appreciation and high rental yields is significant given the location.

Financial Breakdown:

• Starting Price: Units begin from approximately 7,400,000 EGP.
• Value Proposition: Competitive price-per-meter compared to completed projects on the 90th Street, offering room for asset growth by the 2026 delivery date.

The Flexible Payment Plan:

LMD offers a structure designed to ease cash flow for businesses and investors:

• Down Payment: Only 5% required to book.
• Installments: The remaining balance is spread over 7 Years (equal installments).
• Handover: Scheduled for 2026.

Why This Project is Ideal for Foreign Buyers & Expats

1. The “W Hotel” Effect:

Being part of the One Ninety master plan means CDD shares its address with the W Cairo Hotel and St. Regis Residences. Historically, commercial properties adjacent to 5-star hospitality brands command significantly higher rental premiums and attract a wealthier clientele.

2. A Dollar-Hedge Asset:

Prime commercial real estate on the 90th Street is one of the safest hedges against currency devaluation. Multinational tenants typically pay rents pegged to hard currency values, ensuring your income stream retains its purchasing power.

3. Demand for “Experience”:

The Egyptian market is oversaturated with traditional offices but starving for “lifestyle workspaces.” CDD fills this gap. For an international investor, this unique selling proposition (USP) ensures low vacancy rates and high tenant retention.

4. Managed Asset:

LMD’s facility management ensures the property remains pristine. For an absentee owner (expat), this means your asset is maintained to international standards without your daily involvement.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Is Cairo Design District just for interior designers?

A: No. While the name reflects the artistic nature of the architecture, it is a mixed-use commercial hub open to all businesses, including finance, tech, medical, and retail.

Q: How does the location compare to the New Capital?

A: The New Capital is the future, but New Cairo is the present. CDD offers immediate access to an existing population of millions and established infrastructure, making it a lower-risk investment for immediate utilization upon delivery.

Q: Can foreigners own units in CDD?

A: Yes, foreign nationals can purchase freehold commercial property in Egypt. The process is straightforward, and the 7-year payment plan makes it financially accessible.

Q: Who manages the project after delivery?

A: LMD typically appoints top-tier international facility management companies to handle security, maintenance, and operations to preserve the project’s luxury status.

Q: What is “One Ninety”?

A: One Ninety is the master development hosting CDD. It is a 300,000+ sqm mixed-use district that includes hotels, branded residences, and office parks, creating a fully integrated city-within-a-city.