As Egypt prepares to launch its national energy conservation drive this Saturday, March 28, 2026, the Cabinet has identified four critical sectors that will remain exempt from the new early closing hours. The food sector: Supermarkets, grocery stores, bakeries, and fresh produce shops (fruits and vegetables) are excluded from the mandatory closures. Essential utilities: Fuel stations, as well as water and gas service stations, will continue to provide uninterrupted service. New closing hoursStarting tomorrow, most commercial activities will be required to close their doors by 9:00 PM on weekdays. Regional tensions have driven the national bill for gas and fuel imports up by approximately US$1.1 billion per month.

Source: Egypt Independent March 27, 2026 18:18 UTC