New 9 p.m. Closing Time for Businesses Implemented in Egypt

Starting March 28, 2026, the Egyptian government introduced a new energy-saving strategy, setting a mandatory 9:00 p.m. closing time for most commercial businesses.

The move is a response to the rising cost of natural gas imports, which have surged due to regional instability.

By limiting electricity consumption in non-essential areas, the government aims to reduce the strain on the national grid and prevent widespread power outages.

While business owners have expressed concerns about potential revenue loss, the government views this as a vital step to manage the national budget and stabilize the energy supply during this global economic crisis.

This initiative follows similar past efforts to navigate heatwaves and fuel shortages, reflecting Egypt's ongoing commitment to balancing economic activity with national resource security.