"Little Gaza": Palestinians build new lives in Cairo

In an eastern Cairo neighborhood, a thriving community of Palestinian entrepreneurs has emerged, dubbing the area "Little Gaza."

Bassem Abu Aoun, a 56-year-old Gaza native, took a chance and opened Hay Al-Rimal, a restaurant serving traditional Gaza-style turkey shawarma.

Abu Aoun's gamble paid off, attracting fellow Palestinians seeking a taste of home. His restaurant, named after his devastated Gaza City neighborhood, has become a refuge for the traumatized Gazan community in Cairo.

Despite only being granted temporary stays in Egypt, Palestinian entrepreneurs continue to establish businesses, including cafes, falafel joints, and sweets shops. These ventures provide livelihoods for owners who lost everything in the war.

Abu Aoun's patrons are mainly fellow Palestinians, chatting in their distinct Gazan dialect as they enjoy sandwiches reminiscent of home. A mural of intertwining Egyptian and Palestinian flags adorns the wall next to his shop.

With two destroyed eateries in Gaza, Abu Aoun feels responsible to support his family and children in university. He plans to expand his Cairo business, opening a second branch.

Nearby, Kazem, a Gaza-born ice cream shop, has gained popularity among Egyptians for its unique "bouza w barad" dessert drink. Owner Kanaan Kazem hopes to return to Gaza, but his son Nader, managing the Cairo branch, has decided to stay.

In "Little Gaza," Palestinians find solace and new beginnings amidst the challenges of displacement.