Egypt sets 2:00 am closing hours for Ramadan, Eid

Egypt sets 2:00 am closing hours for shops, restaurants, cafés, and malls during Ramadan and the Eid Al-Fitr holiday for 1447 AH. The rules take effect on Wednesday, 18 February 2026, and remain in force until the end of Eid.

The announcement was made on Monday by Manal Awad, Minister of Local Development and Environment and Chairperson of the Supreme Committee for Public Shop Licensing.

The decision comes as an exception to Committee Decision No. 456 of 2020. It aims to provide a suitable atmosphere for citizens during Ramadan while balancing economic activity and maintaining public order.

While shops and cafés must close at 2:00 am, takeaway and home delivery services will continue 24 hours a day. Similarly, workshops in residential areas must close at 10:00 pm, except those located on highways and at fuel stations.

Moreover, essential services such as grocery stores, supermarkets, bakeries, and ovens are exempt from the new closing hours. Night operations of fruit and vegetable shops, poultry stores, wholesale markets, and pharmacies will also continue to ensure citizens have access to necessary goods and services.

Awad directed governorates to monitor implementation, coordinate with relevant authorities, and instruct local officials to activate inspection committees. Legal action will be taken against violators to ensure compliance.

Attribution: Amwal Al Ghad English