The Egyptian government has announced that the country will switch to winter time on October 29, 2026. This means that at midnight on that day, clocks will be set back by 60 minutes to 11 pm. The decision to implement winter time is made annually, with the goal of making better use of daylight during the winter months.
The implementation of winter time in Egypt typically takes place on the last Thursday of October every year. This year's switch to winter time coincides with the end of the summer season and the beginning of the winter season. The change in time is expected to have an impact on the daily routines of Egyptians, particularly with regards to work and school schedules.
In addition to the switch to winter time, the Egyptian government has also announced new winter hours for businesses and activities. According to a decision by the Ministry of Local Development, winter hours for businesses will start from 7 am to 10 pm, with extended hours until 11 pm on Thursdays, Fridays, and public holidays. Some businesses, such as bakeries, supermarkets, and pharmacies, will be exempt from these new hours.
The new winter hours will apply to various types of businesses, including restaurants, cafes, and shopping malls. For example, restaurants and cafes will be allowed to operate from 5 am to 12 am, while shopping malls will be allowed to operate from 7 am to 10 pm. The government has also specified that some activities, such as workshops and handicrafts, will be allowed to operate from 8 am to 6 pm.
Some businesses and activities will be exempt from the new winter hours. These include bakeries, supermarkets, and pharmacies, which will be allowed to operate as usual. Additionally, workshops located on roads and highways, as well as fuel stations, will also be exempt from the new hours.
The switch to winter time and the implementation of new winter hours are aimed at reducing energy consumption and promoting economic activity. The Egyptian government has been working to improve the country's infrastructure and services, and the implementation of winter time is part of these efforts.
The winter time period in Egypt will last until next April, when the country will switch back to summer time. During this period, Egyptians can expect to enjoy the benefits of winter time, including reduced energy consumption and a more efficient use of daylight.
Key points
- The country will start observing winter time on October 29, 2026, with clocks set back by 60 minutes at midnight.
- The new winter hours for businesses will start from 7 am to 10 pm, with extended hours until 11 pm on Thursdays, Fridays, and public holidays.
- Some businesses, such as bakeries, supermarkets, and pharmacies, will be exempt from the new winter hours.
