The Central Bank of Egypt announced on Monday, September 21, 2026, that remittances from Egyptian workers abroad increased by 28.1% during the first seven months of 2026. This significant rise brought the total to approximately $29.7 billion, compared to around $23.2 billion during the same period in 2025. This surge indicates a substantial growth in financial inflows from Egyptian expatriates.

According to the Central Bank, the upward trend in remittances continued in July 2026. Remittances for that month reached about $4.5 billion, marking a 20% increase on a yearly basis. This compares to roughly $3.8 billion in July 2025. The consistent growth highlights the resilience and reliability of remittances as a source of foreign currency for Egypt.

Remittances from Egyptian workers abroad play a crucial role in Egypt's economy. They represent one of the country's primary sources of foreign currency, helping to stabilize the Egyptian pound and support the country's balance of payments. The significant increase in remittances is seen as a positive indicator for Egypt's economic health and stability.

The Central Bank's report also underscores the importance of these financial inflows for Egypt's economic development. By increasing the supply of foreign currency, remittances help mitigate the pressure on the Egyptian pound and support the government's efforts to manage the economy effectively. This, in turn, can contribute to improved economic conditions and enhanced investor confidence.

Egypt has a large diaspora community spread across the globe, particularly in countries such as Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, and the United States. These communities have consistently demonstrated their commitment to supporting their families and contributing to Egypt's economy through remittances. The growth in remittances reflects the strong ties between Egyptian expatriates and their home country.

The increase in remittances comes at a time when Egypt is implementing various economic reforms aimed at boosting growth and stability. The government has been working to attract foreign investment, improve the business environment, and enhance economic competitiveness. The surge in remittances provides additional momentum for these efforts and supports the country's economic objectives.

Looking ahead, the Central Bank expects remittances to continue playing a vital role in Egypt's economy. With the ongoing efforts to improve economic conditions and the strong engagement of the Egyptian diaspora, remittances are likely to remain a significant source of foreign currency for the country. This will help Egypt navigate its economic challenges and achieve sustainable growth.

Key points

  • Remittances from Egyptian workers abroad reached $29.7 billion in the first 7 months of 2026, a 28.1% increase from the same period in 2025.
  • July 2026 saw a 20% annual growth in remittances, totaling approximately $4.5 billion.
  • Remittances are a crucial source of foreign currency for Egypt, supporting economic stability and development.

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SaharaWire Newsroom
SaharaWire

Reporting for SaharaWire from the Nairobi bureau.