The Egyptian Ministry of Interior has issued a decision allowing 21 Egyptian citizens to acquire foreign nationality while retaining their Egyptian citizenship. This decision was published in the official gazette, Al-Waqai' Al-Misriyya, on September 21, 2026. The move is in accordance with the Egyptian Nationality Law, which permits citizens to hold dual nationality.

The decision, numbered 1342 of 2026, was made on August 11, 2026, and was published in the official gazette to take effect. The list of citizens who have been granted permission to acquire foreign nationality includes 21 individuals, with names ranging from Ashraf Abdel Moneim Mohamed Razi to Mohamed Ahmed Mohamed Ruzq. The foreign nationalities that each of these individuals is allowed to acquire are specified in the annex to the decision.

The Egyptian Nationality Law, which was enacted in 1975, governs the rules and procedures for acquiring and losing Egyptian citizenship. According to the law, Egyptian citizens are allowed to hold dual nationality, provided they obtain the necessary permits from the Ministry of Interior. The law also outlines the requirements and procedures for naturalization.

The decision to allow these 21 citizens to acquire foreign nationality is seen as a reflection of the Egyptian government's policy of allowing citizens to maintain ties with their country of origin while also engaging with the global community. The Ministry of Interior has stated that the decision was made in accordance with the law and after verifying the eligibility of the individuals concerned.

The list of citizens who have been granted permission to acquire foreign nationality includes individuals from various backgrounds and professions. While the specific nationalities that these individuals are allowed to acquire are not publicly disclosed, it is understood that they will be required to comply with the laws and regulations of both Egypt and their new country of nationality.

The Egyptian government's decision to allow dual nationality has been seen as a positive step towards promoting greater flexibility and mobility for its citizens. The move is also expected to strengthen ties between Egypt and other countries, as well as promote economic and cultural exchange.

The decision has been welcomed by many in Egypt, who see it as a reflection of the country's growing openness to the global community. The move is also expected to have a positive impact on Egypt's economy, as citizens with dual nationality are likely to invest and engage in business activities in both Egypt and their new country of nationality.

Key points

  • The Egyptian Ministry of Interior has allowed 21 citizens to acquire foreign nationality while retaining their Egyptian citizenship.
  • The decision was made in accordance with the Egyptian Nationality Law, which permits citizens to hold dual nationality.
  • The move is expected to promote greater flexibility and mobility for Egyptian citizens, as well as strengthen ties between Egypt and other countries.

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SaharaWire Newsroom
SaharaWire

Reporting for SaharaWire from the Nairobi bureau.