Hayır Bey

Hayır Bey, born in 1464, was a prominent politician and writer who played a significant role in the Ottoman Empire's governance of Egypt. Appointed as governor by Sultan Selim I, he took on this crucial position in 1517, following his contributions to the Ottoman victory at the Battle of Marj Dabiq. His Abkhazian heritage and previous experience as the Mamluk governor of Aleppo positioned him as a key figure in the empire's expansion.

After the conquest of the Mamluks and the dissolution of the Mamluk Sultanate, Hayır Bey was entrusted with the governorship of Egypt due to the corruption of his predecessor, Yunus Pasha. The sultan's decision to replace Yunus Pasha stemmed from reports of bribery and extortion, highlighting Hayır Bey's integrity and capability in governance.

During his tenure, Hayır Bey resided in the Amir Alin Aq Palace and commissioned the Amir Khayrbak Funerary Complex, reflecting his influence and status. His personal life, however, was marred by controversy; he married Miṣirbāy, the widow of two sultans, but their relationship was tumultuous, leading to severe abuse and eventual separation.