Michael makes the big screen

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THE WEEK IN REVIEW

No more 11pm commercial curfew

Good morning, friends, and happy Friday. Grab your morning brew, enjoy the breeze, and find the nearest comfy seat — you’ve earned it. It’s been a lighter-than-usual week, and we’ve got the rundown for you below.

In today’s issue: We give you a sneak peek into what the new biopic on the King of Pop has to offer, take some tried and tested life productivity advice from professionals, break down one of the leading books on AI, and recommend your next spot for a quiet afternoon coffee and bite.

In this week’s edition of The Enterprise Guide, we’re sharing a list of resources — from digital tools to in-person centers — to help you navigate your therapy journey this Mental Health Awareness Month.

🗞️ LAST WEEK IN 3 MINS-

ENERGY-

#1- After a month of early nights, things will return to normal after the cabinet’s crisis management committee decided to scrap the 11pm curfew on commercial operations introduced earlier this month. To keep energy use under control over the longer term, the Madbouly government will soon launch incentives to push factories and households to transition to solar energy. Work-from-home Sundays, however, are here to stay for another month.

#2- The government is lining up 40 LNG cargoes for May and June to cover increased power consumption during the summer months. Officials expect demand to rise as much as 6-7% y-o-y starting in June.

EGP WATCH-

The USD jumped by approximately EGP 0.8 against the EGP during the final trading session of the week, nearly touching the EGP 54.00 level for the first time in a month. The move signals a sharp uptick in foreign currency demand within the interbank market as the EGP continues to function under a flexible exchange rate regime.

POLICY-

Cairo has banned the issuance of new café and restaurant licenses in Heliopolis, Maadi, Zamalek, and Garden City. The decision was spurred by mounting complaints over noise, congestion, and businesses encroaching on residential areas.

BUDGET WATCH-

The Finance Ministry is more than doubling the value of total capital injections it will make into indebted state-owned enterprises and agencies, with the figure rising to EGP 125.3 bn in the next budget from EGP 58.6 bn in the current fiscal year.

DEBT WATCH-

The International Finance Corporation is in the final stages of approving a USD 100 mn loan for AlDau Hospitality, a part of ADD Properties, to fund a flagship hotel overlooking the Grand Egyptian Museum.

INVESTMENT WATCH-

#1- Polish renewables developer Hynfra and local consultancy Coxswains have tripled their initial investment to USD 5 bn for the first phase of their Ras Banas green ammonia facility. The project had an initial investment ticket of USD 1.6 bn for the phase back in 2024.

#2- Egypt is moving beyond its gateway-to-Africa narrative to focus on concrete execution, aiming to transform US corporate interest into tangible agreements. By pivoting from broad messaging to project-specific matchmaking, the strategy now centers on identifying bankable projects.

M&A WATCH-

US-based global VC HOF Capital is leading a consortium that has bought out automaker Porsche’s complete stake in supercar brand Bugatti. Abu-Dhabi-based investment firm BlueFive Capital is the largest investor in the HOF Capital-led consortium.

EDUCATION-

CIRA Education saw their normalized net income rise 67% y-o-y in 1H FY 2025/26 to EGP 678.3 mn. The increase was supported by a 31% y-o-y rise in revenues to EGP 2.8 bn, as growth in the higher education segment helped offset a tougher comparison base in K-12.

REAL ESTATE-

The New Urban Communities Authority is slashing retroactive land assignment fees by up to 50% for North Coast projects allocated before February 2024. The authority will instead calculate the levies based only on the built-up area.

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The most important business stories in MENA aren’t happening inside MENA anymore — they’re happening at the edges, where regional capital meets global ambition.

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🌍 AROUND THE WORLD IN SEVEN DAYS-

It’s been a mixed bag in the global press this week, with Trump headlines and the drawn-out US-Iran stalemate continuing to dominate. Here’s the rundown:

The start of the week saw US President Donald Trump get escorted out of the White House Correspondents’ Dinner after shots were fired at the scene. The shooting suspect was identified as 31-year-old California resident Cole Tomas Allen, who fired at a Secret Service agent before being arrested. On Sunday, Trump canceled a scheduled visit by two envoys to Islamabad, citing “infighting and confusion” within Tehran’s leadership as preventing diplomatic headway. Eventually, he said Iran can reach out by phone to continue negotiations.

Meanwhile, Iran’s Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi had a “fruitful” sitdown with Pakistani officials in Islamabad. The next day, Araghchi headed to Russia for talks with Vladimir Putin, blaming the US for the breakdown in talks and seeking diplomatic support from Moscow to end the war.

Iran’s proposal to reopen the Strait of Hormuz was dissatisfactory for Trump — the US president pointed to Iran’s failure to meet his key demand of fully curbing its nuclear program. On Wednesday, he urged Iran to “get smart soon” and finalize an agreement, while signaling an extended naval blockade of Iranian ports.

It was a volatile week for oil and energy companies alike as the UAE announced its departure from Opec. Oil prices hit four-year highs, with Brent topping USD 126 / bbl on Thursday early morning before retreating to USD 116 / bbl.

ALSO- Jay Powell’s final meeting as Federal Reserve chair saw the US central bank hold rates in line with market expectations. A divided Fed kept the policy rate in the 3.5-3.75% range — four policymakers voiced their dissent, a level of division unseen since 1992. The bank cited persisting inflation and rising energy prices for the move, pointing to a “high level of uncertainty” stemming from the US-Iran war. Similarly, the Bank of England voted to keep key interest rates at 3.75%.

IN AI NEWS- China blocked Meta’s USD 2 bn acquisition of AI app Manus, a Singaporean startup with Chinese roots. The decision came amid scrutiny from both Beijing and Washington over plans to move business offshore. Meanwhile, AI-driven optimism pushed equities to record highs, with 82 mostly AI-linked stocks gaining over 10% since the war. Tech giants Amazon, Google, Microsoft, and Meta poured around USD 130 bn into capital expenditures, with the lion’s share of that investment fueling data center infrastructure required to power AI.

☀️ THE WEATHER THIS WEEKEND-

We’re in for a particularly warm weekend in Cairo, with temperatures today peaking at 32°C, with a low of 20°C. We’ll be in for more of the same tomorrow, with a high of 32°C and a low of 17°C, according to our favorite weather app.

🎤 HAPPENING THIS WEEKEND-

Are these… Amarein? Nope, that’s just Amr Diab. Fans of El Hadaba, you’ll be pleased to know that the iconic Egyptian pop star will be taking the stage at the American University in Cairo’s football field tonight to belt out a series of his signature hits. Whether you’re an Al Leila enthusiast or a Wayah die-hard, you’ll be in for a treat. The concert starts at 8pm, and tickets can be purchased through Tazkarti.

From Cairo and Alexandria all the way to El Minya, the Contemporary Dance Night Festival is set to take over Om El Donia, running until Saturday, 9 May. The festival brings 10 national and international performances from seven visionary directors and artists, all taking place in open spaces across each city at no charge. Head to the festival’s Instagram for more details and updates.

A global art exhibition awaits at the Grand Egyptian Museum as this year’s Empower Her Art Forum returns tomorrow, running until Tuesday, 5 May. The festival celebrates women in art, showcasing over 300 different pieces from a diverse lineup of artists. The four-day festival runs daily from 10am-10pm — you can book your tickets on Ticketsmarché.

🎤 HAPPENING NEXT WEEKEND-

Marketing crowd, gather ‘round — The Marketers League returns to the Grand Egyptian Museum on Saturday, 9 May, bringing together the biggest names in marketing from Egypt and the Middle East. With over 30 speakers, the conference offers the chance to share insights, explore trends, and connect with top experts. The event runs from 10am-8pm — you can book your tickets on Tazkarti.

Your guide to local + digital mental health support

💡 Life often leaves us juggling heavy responsibilities and mounting pressure. In this race against time, it’s easy to lose sight of the need to pause and reflect. Because the path toward mental well-being isn’t meant to be a solitary one, seeking professional support is a vital step.

Egypt’s mental health infrastructure has grown significantly, from private clinics to flexible digital platforms. To mark the start of Mental Health Awareness Month this May, this week’s edition of The Enterprise Guide provides a curated map of support options to help you identify the right fit for your needs.

Clinics and centers

#1- Serenity Psychology Center: With over 15 years of expertise, Serenity serves Greater Cairo through three branches. Their specialized team provides diverse therapeutic services, including individual sessions, psychiatric consultations, psychodrama, and corporate wellness advisory.

WHERE TO FIND THEM- Maadi, Sheikh Zayed, and New Cairo.

#2- American Center for Psychiatry and Psychology: With a diverse roster of experts, ACPP hosts a multidisciplinary team of doctors and therapists. It’s an ideal choice for those seeking a comprehensive diagnosis and a structured, clear treatment path.

WHERE TO FIND THEM-ACPP is in Degla, Maadi.

#3- Nine Psychology: Nine prioritizes clear goals from the outset. Their integrated team provides varied support tailored to different cases, making it a preferred destination for those who’d rather explore therapeutic options before considering medication.

WHERE TO FIND THEM-Nine is located on Street 9, Maadi.

#4- Heal Counseling Center: Heal offers approaches that go beyond traditional one-on-one sessions, also providing couples and group therapy, as well as programs for children and adults. The center provides specialized services such as hypnotherapy, available both in-person and online.

WHERE TO FIND THEM-Heal is located in Heliopolis.

#5- Shams Psychology Center: Founded by psychiatrist Nabil El Kot, Shams utilizes various modalities such as cognitive behavioral therapy and psychoanalysis, allowing for a flexible and highly personalized approach for every individual.

WHERE TO FIND THEM-Shams has branches in Downtown Cairo and Heliopolis.

Online support

#1- Shezlong: A pioneer in regional digital therapy, this platform allows users to browse the backgrounds of hundreds of specialists, view ratings, and book appointments that fit their budget and schedule.

WHERE TO FIND THEM-You can download the app on Apple Store and Google Play.

#2- O7 Therapy: O7 features a vast network of therapists across a wide array of specializations. The platform also includes a matching tool to help find the right professional for specific needs.

WHERE TO FIND THEM- You can download the app on Apple Store and Google Play.

#3- Alma Care: Alma provides a hybrid experience, offering sessions both at their physical location and online via Zoom. Their services span psychotherapy, sexual health, and autism support, among other focused specialties.

WHERE TO FIND THEM- The center is located in New Cairo, with bookings available via their website.

Community and public options

#1- Ain Shams University Psychiatry Center: A leading institution that bridges clinical care and research. It offers comprehensive diagnostics, long-term psychiatric treatment plans, group therapy, and advanced rehabilitation units. The center also features a dedicated department for memory disorders and geriatric health, along with 24/7 emergency psychiatric services.

#2- Kasr Al Aini Psychiatry and Addiction Center provides high-standard mental health care at accessible rates. Its outpatient clinics cover various specialties, including anxiety, depression, and adolescent psychiatry, alongside addiction treatment units and on-site diagnostic testing.

#3- National Mental Health Hotline: A 24/7 immediate support service designed to help individuals manage sudden anxiety, stress, or panic attacks. It provides direct contact with specialists for quick guidance or referrals to clinical care when necessary.

Dedicated support for women

Egyptian Center for Women's Rights: Provides psychological support and safe spaces for women facing hardship or discrimination;
New Woman Foundation: Focuses on counseling and helping women navigate the psychological impact of difficult experiences;
Barah Aamen: Facilitates specialist-led support groups for women following a structured seasonal schedule.

Local mental health resources are more diverse than ever. Whether it’s a quick phone call, a flexible remote session, or a specialized clinic visit, it’s all there — it’s taking that first step that matters.

(** Tap or click the headline above to read this story with all of the links to our background as well as external sources.)

All hail the King of Pop

🎥 Just days into its theatrical release, Michael sparked controversy — we weren’t surprised. The film faced a scathing attack from critics, which was met by the rising voices of fans shouting, “ don’t let the critics fool you, see Michael for yourselves,” viewing the backlash as part of a campaign to tarnish the legacy of the King of Pop. Produced by Graham King (of Bohemian Rhapsody) and directed by Antoine Fuqua (famous for Training Day), the film didn’t take long to break records, earning USD 217 mn during its opening weekend.

Production-wise, the film excels. Jaafar Jackson — Michael Jackson’s nephew — kicks off his cinematic career with a bang, portraying his late uncle with such finesse that for a moment, we thought we were watching MJ himself. From the voice to the body language and dance moves, it was clear Jaafar had done his homework. Every casting choice was spot on, specifically the father, Joe Jackson, portrayed by Colman Domingo with brilliance.

A life that cannot be contained in a single film: Michael Jackson’s story, with its complexities and details, is larger and deeper than a two-hour film can hold, which is perfectly understandable. The only weakness of the film is the dialogue, which seemed overly direct, but the choice to focus on the first chapter of his life and his toxic relationship with his father and distorted childhood remains logical. It provided us with a powerful, poignant, and enjoyable musical biopic, telling the iconic rise of one of the most — if not the most — famous talents of the modern era.

Too childlike? One of the most prominent points echoed by the film’s critics is that it portrays Michael as more of a child in an attempt to polish his image for new generations. We see this as untrue; Michael’s difficult upbringing, his love for animals, his constant search for his lost childhood, as well as his famous charitable works, are all facts known by heart to almost all his fans. All the filmmakers did was translate that onto the cinema screen in a dramatic adaptation.

Our verdict: This is a film that speaks to Michael Jackson lovers and those who grew up on his music. Although it didn’t present aspects unknown to any true fan, seeing songs like Billie Jean at the Motown concert or the behind-the-scenes filming of the Thriller video on the big screen was a refreshing and enjoyable experience that we thoroughly enjoyed. We can’t wait for part two.

(** Tap or click the headline above to read this story with all of the links to our background as well as external sources.)

WHERE TO WATCH- Michael is screening at Vox Cinemas at City Center Almaza, Mall of Egypt, and Mall of Alexandria. You can also catch the film at City Stars Cinema, D5 and CFCM’s Scene Cinema, and Cima Arkan. Watch the trailer on YouTube (watch, runtime: 2:17).

A deep dive into the mind behind AI

📚 “You might be wondering if a human wrote [this book]” is the opening line of the 2024 FT Book of the Year award recipient, Supremacy: AI, ChatGPT, and the Race That Will Change the World — now that’s quite the tone-setter. Written by Wall Street Journal tech journalist Parmy Olson, the book offers an insider’s dissection of the AI arms race, detailing the rivalry among Silicon Valley’s biggest AI players, and what a future where AI reigns supreme means.

Neatly categorized into four “acts,” Olson explores the high-stakes rivalry between Demis Hassabis of Google DeepMind and Sam Altman of OpenAI. She traces their backgrounds to illustrate how their philosophies have shaped the current AI landscape. The narrative follows the shift from academic curiosity to a cutthroat sprint fueled by massive investments.

The book traces the rise of ChatGPT, detailing how a research lab’s pivot to consumer products caught the world off guard. Olson explains how the quest for Artificial General Intelligence (AGI) moved from theory to the center of global power. Through her reporting, the “race” is revealed as not just a technical pursuit but as a battle for the very soul of the internet, as goals of “AI for good” were increasingly sidelined by commercial pressures.

What we liked: What sets Supremacy apart is Olson’s disciplined approach. She delivers proper storytelling but with a refreshing style — avoiding florid language and staying strictly to the point. The depth of her reporting is evident, yet the prose remains fast-paced and accessible. We particularly appreciated her use of historical analogies, comparing the AI boom to past technological shifts to show how those movements fared and ultimately ended.

Our verdict: We liked Supremacy and think you should read it. It’s a pivotal book that is more relevant than ever as the world continues to shift due to the AI revolution. Olson provides the necessary context to understand that the current arms race isn’t just about software — it’s about who gets to define the future of intelligence. If you want to understand the egos and economics behind the code, this is an essential addition to your shelf.

WHERE TO FIND IT- You can find a physical copy at Diwan. You can listen to the audiobook on Storytel and get the ebook on Amazon.

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Limbo is another Zamalek café you shouldn’t miss out on

🍴 Just a couple of months ago, Limbo opened its doors in a prime location in Zamalek with a stunning view of the Nile, taking Starbucks’ spot in the Om Kolthoum Hotel & Tower. It was love at first visit. The floor-to-ceiling glass windows make the river a central part of the experience, and the seating is incredibly comfortable.

What to expect: The café spans two floors plus an outdoor seating area. The design is minimalist and dominated by white, with curated accessories that give it a cozy, modern feel. The table layout is clever and flexible, maintaining a sense of privacy, and we were particularly impressed by the friendly, welcoming staff.

What’s on the menu: The menu offers a variety of classic coffees, creative specialty drinks, and a selection of desserts and sandwiches. We started with a flat white, which featured a perfect balance of espresso and milk. From the bakery, we chose the French cheese croissant. The cheese flavor was distinct and high-quality, paired with a soft, fresh pastry that wasn't overly stuffed.

Is your sweet tooth tingling this weekend? Beyond the Nile view, the lemon cheesecake was the highlight of our visit — light, airy, and with a subtle sweetness that let the lemon shine. We also tried the pink glow from the cold drinks menu — a refreshing blend of strawberry and raspberry with a hint of spice. While the combination sounds unusual, the result was balanced and delicious, making it a perfect recommendation for hot days.

Our verdict: Limbo is definitely worth a return visit. It’s an ideal choice for remote work, social gatherings, or even a solo session with a book and some music. If you’re looking for a space that brings together great views with great coffee, Limbo belongs on your list.

WHERE TO FIND IT- You can find Limbo in Abu El Feda, Zamalek.

💵 Per person: EGP 300-600

🪑 Outdoor seating: Yes

🍺 Alcohol: No

🦽 Accessibility friendly: No

Mastering productivity with Beyond the To-Do List

👂 Beyond the To-Do List is the go-to podcast for all things work and life productivity. Led by Erik Fisher, the podcast brings on a host of experts and creatives to sit down and explore productivity strategies — what works, what doesn’t, and how to live a fuller life without letting productivity take over.

Is rehashed, generic productivity advice not cutting it for you? The podcast’s expansive roster of episodes offers no shortage of nuanced guidance on maintaining a healthy balance between work and life. From ancient productivity and rest rituals to modern life stresses and the quiet problems at work, the podcast packs research-backed methods and useful firsthand experience into easy, hour-long, monthly episodes — all just a click away.

“The best practice you can do is the practice you can do” — a line from Fisher that stuck with us during an episode about retreat rhythms. Alongside guest biblical scholar and professor John Drury, the episode highlights different paces for different people, including weekly, monthly, quarterly, and annual rest rhythms. Fisher and Drury emphasize finding something that genuinely works for you, not just something that sounds right.

What we liked: An hour-long episode about productivity methods might sound daunting, but, surprisingly, we found it a breeze to get through. The host is lively and just the right amount of talkative, creating easygoing conversations with his guests — it feels more like a couple of friends chatting (with great insight) than a traditional interview format.

The podcast also features shorter “shortcast” episodes in which guests share more condensed advice — perfect when you’re not in the mood for a full-length listen. Productivity guidance is plentiful, but Beyond the To-Do List delivers it in a friendly, low-pressure style — a worthwhile addition to your self-development rotation.

WHERE TO LISTEN- You can tune in on Apple Podcasts | Anghami | Spotify.

THE ENTERPRISE ENTERTAINMENT CALENDAR

🗓️ APRIL

7 April - 8 June (Tuesday-Monday): Beyond Van Gogh: The Immersive Experience at District 5 by Marakez in New Cairo.

16 April - 30 June (Thursday-Tuesday): Early bird registration for The Marakez Pyramids Half Marathon.

27 April - 2 May (Monday-Saturday): Alexandria Short Film Festival.

29 April - 9 May (Wednesday-Saturday): Contemporary Dance Night Festival.

MAY

1 May (Friday): Labor Day.

1 May (Friday): El Hekaya: Amr Diab at AUC Football Field.

1 May (Friday): El Leila El Kebira at Theatro Arkan.

1-2 May (Friday-Saturday): Cotzl’s Step Into the Light bazaar at Al Horreya Garden, Zamalek.

2-5 May (Saturday-Tuesday): Empower Her Art Forum (EHAF) at the Grand Egyptian Museum.

7-9 May (Thursday-Saturday): Sandbox Festival in El Gouna.

7-10 May (Thursday-Sunday): ASEEL Egyptian Horse Festival at the Armed Forces Equestrian Club, Nasr City.

8-9 May (Friday-Saturday): Mina Nader Interactive Comedy Show at Ewart Memorial Hall, AUC Tahrir.

9 May (Saturday): Cairo Vintage Souq at Al Zohriya Garden, Zamalek.

9 May (Saturday): The Marketers League at The Grand Egyptian Museum.

14 May (Thursday): Riham Abdel Ghafour with Mahmoud Saad at Falaki Theatre.

15 May (Friday): Omar Khairat live with Baheya at Al Manara Main Hall.

15 May (Friday): Jadal at Boom Room, Madinaty.

15 May (Friday): Angham at El Arena.

15 May (Friday): Amr Selim at Theatro Arkan.

16 May (Saturday): Bazet Menny with Waleed Moghazy at Theatro Arkan.

21 May (Thursday): The Prontos Michael Jackson Tribute night at Room Art Space.

22 May (Friday): Adam Port at Salah El Din Citadel.

25 May (Monday): Sharmoofers at Ewart Memorial Hall, AUC Tahrir Square.

26 May (Tuesday): Arafat’s Day.

26 May (Tuesday): Andrea Bocelli at the City of Arts and Culture in the New Administrative Capital.

27-30 May (Wednesday-Saturday): Matsagharonash at Theatro Arkan.

27-29 May (Wednesday-Friday): Eid El Adha (TBC).

JUNE

16 June (Tuesday): Islamic New Year.

30 June (Tuesday): June 30th Revolution.

JULY

1 July - 2 November (Wednesday-Monday): General registration for The Marakez Pyramids Half Marathon.

23 July (Thursday): July 23rd Revolution 1952.

24 July (Friday): Adriatique at the North Coast.

AUGUST

21 August (Friday): Black Coffee at Cubix North Coast.

25 August (Thursday): Prophet Muhammad’s Birthday.

OCTOBER

1-4 October (Thursday-Sunday): She Arts festival across Cairo and Alexandria.

6 October (Tuesday): Armed Forces Day.

24 October (Saturday): Blue 25th Anniversary Tour at New Capital.

NOVEMBER

28 November (Saturday): Shakira at the Pyramids of Giza.

DECEMBER

11-12 December (Friday-Saturday): TheMarakezPyramids Half Marathon at the Pyramids of Giza.

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