The Egyptian government has announced the introduction of new winter operating hours for shops, restaurants, and cafes, effective September 26, 2026. The move aims to regulate the working hours of commercial and service activities, achieve discipline in the streets, and rationalize energy consumption. The new winter hours are designed to meet the needs of citizens and ensure the smooth operation of various businesses.
According to the new schedule, shops and malls will open from 7:00 AM and close at 10:00 PM on regular days. On Thursdays and Fridays, as well as public holidays, the closing time will be extended to 11:00 PM. This allows for an additional hour of operation on these days. The new hours are expected to bring more organization and efficiency to the commercial sector.
Restaurants, cafes, and bazaars will have different operating hours, taking into account their unique needs and those of their customers. These businesses will open from 5:00 AM and close at 12:00 AM on regular days. On Thursdays and Fridays, as well as public holidays, they will be allowed to operate until 1:00 AM. This will enable them to cater to the needs of citizens during evening and nighttime hours.
The winter hours also apply to workshops and handicraft businesses located in residential areas, which will operate from 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM. However, some exceptions have been made for workshops located on roads and fuel stations, as well as those providing emergency services to citizens. These exceptions are subject to specific regulations and decisions.
Some businesses have been exempted from the new winter hours, including those that provide essential services or operate around the clock. These exempt businesses include grocery stores, supermarkets, bakeries, fruit and vegetable shops, poultry shops, wholesale markets, pharmacies, and workshops located on roads and fuel stations.
The government's decision to introduce new winter hours aims to balance the needs of commercial and service activities with those of citizens. The move is expected to promote energy efficiency, reduce congestion, and enhance the overall business environment. By regulating working hours, the government hopes to achieve a more organized and efficient commercial sector.
The new winter hours will be implemented starting September 26, 2026, and will remain in effect throughout the winter season. Citizens are advised to take note of the new hours and plan their shopping and dining activities accordingly. The government has encouraged businesses to comply with the new regulations and cooperate with authorities to ensure a smooth transition.
Key points
- The new winter hours aim to regulate the working hours of commercial and service activities, achieve discipline in the streets, and rationalize energy consumption.
- Shops and malls will open from 7:00 AM and close at 10:00 PM on regular days, with extended hours on Thursdays and Fridays.
- Restaurants, cafes, and bazaars will operate from 5:00 AM to 12:00 AM on regular days, with extended hours on Thursdays and Fridays.
