Egypt’s First Nuclear Reactor to Power Up in 2028

Egypt is preparing to activate its first nuclear reactor at the El-Dabaa Nuclear Power Plant in the second half of 2028, with the remaining three units expected to be operational by 2029, according to Prime Minister Mostafa Madbouly.

During a visit to the site on Wednesday, Madbouly confirmed that the plant will consist of four reactors with a total capacity of 4,800 megawatts, and emphasized that construction is advancing according to the established timeline.

He recalled that the project had long remained confined to planning documents before the current political leadership intervened to bring the vision to life. The initiative gained momentum in 2015 with the signing of preliminary agreements, and formal construction began in December 2017.

Dr. Sherif Helmy, Chairman of the Nuclear Power Plants Authority (NPPA), provided a comprehensive update on the project’s progress, affirming that all components are moving forward without delays and that delivery targets remain firmly in place.

Helmy noted that construction is being carried out in line with the highest global standards for nuclear safety and quality, with rigorous oversight from NPPA and regulatory agencies.

He also stressed the significant local involvement in the project, with Egyptians making up around 80% of the workforce. Furthermore, a number of core components are being produced locally by Egyptian companies, reinforcing national industry capabilities.

The El-Dabaa project leverages cutting-edge nuclear technology and is being built by experienced Egyptian and Russian teams. Once completed, it will be operated exclusively by Egyptian staff from day one, marking a major milestone in the country's energy and industrial development.