The city of Mansoura in Dakahlia Governorate has witnessed one of the most prominent urban development projects in recent years with the rehabilitation and beautification of Umm Kulthum Square, one of the city’s most famous squares. It is named after the ‘Star of the East,’ whose name is immortalized in the hearts of Egyptians.

The square’s development is part of the governorate’s plan to beautify Mansoura’s squares and enhance their efficiency, in line with the city’s aesthetic identity, improving traffic flow and providing residents with a refined urban space.

The Dakahlia Governorate supervised the development works in cooperation with a specialized company. The project included upgrading infrastructure, beautifying the square’s surroundings, installing modern lighting, creating green spaces, and restoring the statue of the Star of the East, Umm Kulthum, prominently located in the center of the square.

Traffic movement in the square was reorganized to ensure smooth vehicle flow, and the entrances and exits of surrounding roads were improved to reduce the congestion previously experienced.

The governorate confirmed that the goal of the development was not only to beautify the general appearance but also to highlight the square’s artistic and historical value, befitting a symbol bearing the name of Umm Kulthum, one of the icons of Egyptian and Arab art.

At the square’s opening, there was limited controversy after the executing company placed its commercial name on the square, which was widely rejected by residents as it diminished the place’s symbolism. The governorate quickly responded by issuing directives to remove the company’s name and clearly and brightly display the name “Umm Kulthum” from all sides.

Several Mansoura residents expressed their happiness with the level of development, affirming that the square has become an artistic masterpiece reflecting the city’s identity and a source of pride for all who pass by. One citizen said, “Umm Kulthum Square has become much more beautiful than before and reminds us of a great symbol of Egyptian art.”

The Umm Kulthum Square development project is considered a successful model of the state’s efforts to restore the urban face of Dakahlia Governorate, confirming that attention to heritage and beauty can go hand in hand.