Global Immersion: Business and Entrepreneurship in Egypt

Egypt, the largest country in the Arab world, is considered by many as the cradle of civilization. Its iconic monuments, confluence of religions, rich cultural heritage has made Egypt a regional power in North Africa. From the Ottoman Empire to British rule, King Farouk's monarchy, the 1952 Egyptian Revolution that put Nasser and then Sadat into power to Mubarak's 30 year rule and the Egyptian Revolution of 2011, instability, turbulence and transition has plagued its history in the last century. Many questions still remain. Will the country finally finish all political reforms? Will the economic reform program (agreed with IMF) ensure its progress and put Egypt once again as a key economy in the region? Will investment arrive and provide a sound macro environment for companies to thrive? How has Covid and the war in Ukraine affected Egypt? What investment opportunities exist? What are the risks involved and future challenges? How to best enter the market? The course will explore these questions and other issues related to the entrepreneurship ecosystem and doing business in Egypt in general. The course consists of six classes (of 90 minutes each) at Columbia to introduce Egypt. A week-long trip to Egypt will include visits to companies and government and non-government institutions, December 10-17, 2022 Global Immersion Program classes bridge classroom lessons and business practices in another country. These three credit classes meet for half a term in New York prior to a one week visit to the country of focus where students will meet with business executives and government officials while working on team projects. Upon return from the travel portion of the class, students may have one wrap up meeting at Columbia Business School. The 2022-2023 Global Immersion Program fee for most classes is $1950 and provides students with double occupancy lodging, ground transportation and some meals; unless an increased fee is otherwise specified in the course description. It does not cover round-trip international airfare. Attendance both in New York and in-country and regular participation are a crucial part of the learning experience and as such attendance is mandatory. Students who miss the first class meeting may be removed from the course. No program fee refunds will be given after the add/drop period has closed. Please visit the Chazen Institute website to learn more about the Global Immersion Program, and visit the Global Immersion Policies page to review policies affecting these courses.