Early Closures Implemented to Address Energy Crisis
Shops, restaurants, and cafes across Egypt have been instructed to close by 21:00 local time (19:00 GMT) each night for the next month, starting Saturday, as part of a series of temporary measures aimed at tackling soaring energy prices triggered by the conflict in Iran.
These "exceptional measures" introduced by the Egyptian government also include dimming street lights and roadside advertising, alongside a mandate for many employees to return to home working one day per week during April.
Impact of Middle East Conflict on Egypt's Energy Supply
Egypt has been significantly affected by the Middle East conflict and the effective blockade of the Strait of Hormuz, a crucial shipping route for oil and liquefied natural gas. Since supply through this waterway has nearly halted, global oil prices have surged dramatically.
There are concerns that if the situation remains unresolved, it could lead to increased prices for food, medicine, and other essential goods.
Although Egypt is not directly involved in the war, its dependence on imported fuel has exposed it to vulnerabilities from supply disruptions.
Government Statements and Economic Measures
Egypt's Prime Minister Mostafa Madbouly stated on Saturday:
"Our petrol bill alone has more than doubled from January to $2.5bn (£1.9bn) in March."
The government has clarified that hotels and tourist attractions will be exempt from the energy-saving measures, recognizing that tourism accounts for approximately 10% of Egypt's economy.
Nonetheless, several hotels in Cairo, including the Marriott and Cosmopolitan, informed broadcaster RFI that they have procured generators to prepare for possible power outages and will keep their restaurants open for guests regardless of the new closing times.
Work-from-Home and Essential Worker Exemptions
Most employees will be required to work from home one day per week; however, essential workers such as those in hospitals, schools, and factories will be exempt from this directive.
Strait of Hormuz and International Shipping Concerns
Since Iran began threatening attacks on ships transporting goods through the Strait of Hormuz, most international shipping through this narrow chokepoint has ceased. Typically, about 20% of the world's oil and gas supply passes through this route.
US President Donald Trump has repeatedly expressed frustration that allied nations have been unwilling to assist in escorting ships through the waterway.
Some ships have traversed the strait since the conflict began, though many of these vessels have connections to Iran, China, or India.
On Saturday, Thailand announced it had reached an agreement with Iran to secure safe passage for its oil tankers.
Additional Economic Adjustments by Egyptian Government
In response to the conflict's impact, the Egyptian government has already increased petrol prices and raised public transport fares to mitigate effects on public finances.
Furthermore, it plans to slow down large, energy-intensive state projects and reduce government vehicle fuel allowances by nearly one-third, according to reports from .
Additional reporting by Alaa Ragaie in Cairo.
