The story of Zamalek Island began with its emergence in 700 Hijri and continued until it reached its present form.

After Zamalek Island emerged, it has undergone continuous urban change, starting with seasonal use that transitioned to be permanent during the reign of Mohamed Ali (1805-1853).

Upon assuming power (1863-1879), Khedive Ismail embarked on massive urban projects to develop the capital. The development of Zamalek Island was part of this initiative, as he chose it as his resort in Cairo.

Under Khedive Tawfiq's rule, Zamalek Island remained a public park. However, the elite and princes were granted permission to build palaces near the Saray al-Gezira Palace. This marked the beginning of urban spread and ushering in a new era.

The land use of Zamalek Island has experienced many transformations over a long period of time, starting with a place for basic and temporary agriculture and ending with a residential suburb.

Throughout the ages, Egypt has had many capitals, whose names and locations changed with the change of its rulers.

Following the Mamluks' decline, Cairo's health and urban infrastructure deteriorated. This decay continued through the power struggles that erupted after the arrival of the French campaign. Finally, in 1805 AD, Mohamed Ali Pasha's rise to power marked a turning point. Under his rule, Cairo began to expand beyond its old city walls.

Khedive Ismail assumed power with a progressive attitude ahead of its time. He is the one to be credited with modernizing Egypt, and was responsible for the tremendous boom that the capital experienced over an entire century.

Ismail faced numerous challenges and difficulties during the implementation of his projects because of the nature of Old Cairo construction and the previous areas of Fustat, Qata’i, and al-Askar. Lacking enough time for a radical makeover of Eastern Cairo, Khedive Ismail thought of creating a new city that would represent a modern facade for Cairo on the western edge of the city.

The city of Khedivial Cairo stands as a magnificent testament to Cairo's urban evolution, stretching from Ataba Square in the west to the Nile bank in the east, and from Misr Railway Station Square (currently Ramesses Square) to Abdeen Palace.