As Egypt prepares to implement winter operating hours in 2026, citizens and business owners are seeking information on the new schedules. The winter hours aim to balance citizens' needs with the nature of commercial and service activities while promoting energy conservation. According to the new schedule, shops and malls will close at 10 pm on weekdays.

On Thursdays, Fridays, and public holidays, shops and malls will stay open an hour later, closing at 11 pm. These extended hours will also apply during vacations and official celebrations. The new winter schedule is designed to regulate the operating times of various activities, ensuring a balance between citizens' needs and the requirements of commercial and service businesses.

Restaurants, cafes, and bazaars have different operating hours compared to shops and malls. They will remain open until midnight on regular days. However, during weekends, holidays, and official celebrations, they can operate until 1 am, subject to specific regulations governing their operating hours.

The winter schedule features distinct closing times for different types of businesses, with shops and malls closing earlier than restaurants and cafes. The later closing times on weekends and holidays apply to all businesses. Egypt's winter schedule is set to take effect in 2026, with authorities emphasizing the importance of adhering to the new timings.

Business owners and citizens are advised to familiarize themselves with the new winter operating hours to avoid any disruptions. Shops, malls, restaurants, and cafes will need to adjust their schedules accordingly. The new timings aim to promote a balance between commercial activities and citizens' needs while encouraging energy efficiency.

Egypt's decision to implement winter operating hours is part of a broader effort to regulate the country's commercial and service sectors. By introducing these new timings, authorities hope to create a more sustainable and efficient business environment. The winter schedule is expected to have a positive impact on the country's energy consumption and overall economic activity.

The new winter operating hours will be enforced across Egypt, with businesses expected to comply with the regulations. Citizens and business owners can plan accordingly, taking note of the extended hours on weekends and holidays.

Key points

  • Shops and malls in Egypt will close at 10 pm on weekdays and 11 pm on Thursdays, Fridays, and public holidays.
  • Restaurants, cafes, and bazaars will remain open until midnight on regular days and 1 am on weekends, holidays, and official celebrations.
  • The new winter schedule aims to promote energy conservation and balance citizens' needs with commercial and service activities.

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SaharaWire Newsroom
SaharaWire

Reporting for SaharaWire from the Nairobi bureau.