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Al Ittihadiya Palace: Egypt's Presidential Landmark

Explore Al Ittihadiya Palace in Cairo: A historic presidential palace with stunning architecture and serene gardens in the heart of Heliopolis.

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Al Ittihadiya Palace, also known as Al-Orouba Palace or Heliopolis Palace, is the official workplace of the Egyptian President, located in Heliopolis, Cairo. Originally built as the Heliopolis Palace Hotel in 1910, it boasts stunning neo-Islamic architecture and lush gardens, reflecting Egypt's rich history.

A brief summary to AL Ittihadiya Palace

  • 38Q9+GQR، Al Nadi, Heliopolis, El-Montaza, Cairo Governorate, EG

Local tips

  • Visit early in the morning or late afternoon for the best light and fewer people around the grounds.
  • Bring your camera to capture the palace's stunning architecture and the surrounding gardens.
  • Wear comfortable shoes for walking around the extensive gardens.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    If you are in central Heliopolis, you can walk to Al Ittihadiya Palace. Start from the Heliopolis Metro Station. Head southeast on Al-Mas'udiya Street towards El-Nadi Street. Continue straight until you reach the intersection with El-Nadi Street, then turn right. Proceed along El-Nadi Street until you see the palace on your left side. The walk should take approximately 25-30 minutes.

  • Public Transport

    From your location in Heliopolis, look for a bus stop that services Route 60 or Route 68. Board the bus and inform the conductor that you are heading to AL Ittihadiya Palace. The bus fare is approximately 5 EGP. After about 15 minutes, request to disembark at the stop closest to Al-Nadi Street. From there, it's a short 5-minute walk to the palace.

  • Taxi/Ride-Hailing Service

    Taxis and ride-hailing services like Uber and Careem are readily available in Cairo. Simply input 'AL Ittihadiya Palace' as your destination. The fare will vary based on your starting point, but expect to pay around 30-50 EGP for a ride within Heliopolis. The drive should take about 10-15 minutes depending on traffic. A taxi from Cairo International Airport to the palace will cost approximately 100-200 EGP.

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Discover more about AL Ittihadiya Palace

Al Ittihadiya Palace, an iconic landmark in Cairo's Heliopolis district, serves as the official workplace for the President of Egypt. Its history is as rich and layered as its architectural design. Initially constructed as the Heliopolis Palace Hotel in 1910 by a French company, it was one of the most luxurious hotels in Africa, attracting royalty, business tycoons, and celebrities from around the globe. The hotel was designed by Belgian architect Ernest Jaspar, with contributions from Alexandre Marcel, and showcased a unique blend of Eastern and Islamic art. During World War I, the hotel was transformed into a military hospital for Australian troops. In 1958, the Egyptian government purchased the hotel and, in 1972, it became the headquarters for the Federation of Arab Republics, giving it the name Al Ittihadiya Palace. A major overhaul in the 1980s preserved its heritage, leading to its designation as the Presidential Complex under President Hosni Mubarak. The palace's architecture is a stunning mix of Islamic and Arab artistry, featuring intricate designs, marble decorations, and Islamic inscriptions. The main hall boasts huge crystal chandeliers and 22 marble columns, while the dome extends 55 meters high. The surrounding gardens offer a tranquil escape from the city bustle, providing a picturesque backdrop for visitors. Although interior access is generally restricted, the exterior views and gardens are well worth a visit.

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