Cairo hosts electronic music festival near Pyramids

Cairo's Giza Plateau, home to the Pyramids, hosted the Starlight Festival, a two-day electronic music event. The festival, organized by Serbia's EXIT and Egyptian promoters P+US, took place on a site overlooking the ancient monuments.

Artists such as Adriatique, Pete Tong, Michael Bibi, and Charlotte de Witte performed, with a light show transforming the Pyramids into a backdrop for the music. The event attracted a diverse crowd, including Egyptian and international visitors.

The festival's organizers, including Rabih Mokbel of Venture Lifestyle, aim to establish Egypt as a destination for live entertainment, rather than simply replicating other global music hubs. They emphasize the importance of respecting Egypt's historical and cultural heritage.

Staging the festival required cooperation with Egypt's Ministry of Tourism and Antiquities, as well as extensive logistical planning. Organizers stress that preserving the site's history is central to their approach.

Despite the international production values, the event retained some of Cairo's local character, including chaotic taxi navigation and a mix of Egyptian and international visitors. The festival also created opportunities for local businesses and workers.

For many, the appeal of the festival lies in its unique combination of world-class music and ancient landmarks. As the Pyramids remain unchanged, the festival highlights a new Egypt emerging around them, driven by its young, confident population.