Large cities in Middle Eastern countries, like much of the world, are characterized by rapid urban growth. Urbanization and urban growth often result in the proliferation of squatter settlements on the urban fringe. While squatter settlements provide a relief valve from pressure for housing very low income residents, they also create a complex array of physical, social, economic problems. In order to better understand how Middle Eastern governments can more effectively respond to squatter settlements, this thesis adopts an analytical approach and case study method to assess two such settlements in Egypt. Insight is gained by analyzing both the positive and negative outcomes of the Egyptian government’s response to squatter settlements. These insights are used to propose standards for scatter settlements that address the physical, social and economic needs of residents while addressing the problems posed by such settlements. This study found that in Egypt, much of the government’s response to squatter settlements has reflected a reactionary planning approach responding to popular pressure, media reports and donor requirements. The study found a lack of a comprehensive strategy based on regional approaches to problem-solving. Also, the Egyptian government's response to the need for housing very low income residents is focused only on the physical dimension of the problem at the expense of the social and economic dimensions, including the need for public participation, employment generation strategies, and comprehensive assessments of residents’ needs.
This study recommends a balanced regional development strategy based on locally appropriate development standards and building codes, and a fair distribution of development resources to cities and villages throughout the country. Such an approach should be designed to reach as many of the country’s poor residents as is possible. This approach would allow greater flexibility to allow poor residents to build for themselves structurally sound housing using relatively inexpensive building materials. Such an approach can encourage the expansion of housing on the basis of a family’s needs and resources. In addition, additional research is needed on squatter settlements in Egypt in order to better understand existing patterns of development so that alternative models might be created.