He started his studies in Egypt but, on his father's advice, completed them in France, earning a master's degree in architecture from École nationale supérieure d'architecture de Versailles.

After its leader Ayman Nour was sentenced to five years in jail, El-Ghad split into two factions, led respectively by Moussa and Gameela Ismail.

Moussa was originally a supporter of Abdel Fattah el-Sisi, incumbent President of Egypt.

He played a role in collecting pledges for Sisi until 20 January 2018, when he announced running for office.

He submitted all the documents and signatures to the National Election Authority the next day at 1:45pm, just 15 minutes before the deadline.