🇪🇬
Egypt
Employment Guide & Cultural Intelligence
Overview
Capital
Cairo
Currency
EGP
Language
Arabic
Time Zone
UTC+2 (EET)
GDP per Capita
$3,640
Work Week
48 hours
Employment Basics
| Standard Work Week | 48 hours |
| Notice Period | 2 to 3 months based on tenure |
| Probation Period | 3 months |
| Overtime Rules | 35% premium day, 70% night; consent required |
| Termination Rules | Fixed-term: no early termination without cause; indefinite: cause required after probation |
| Minimum Wage | EGP 6,000/month |
Statutory Benefits
21
Annual Leave Days
11
Public Holidays
32
Total Paid Days Off
| Parental Leave | 3 months maternity (limited pay), no statutory paternity |
| Sick Leave | 75% pay for 90 days; 85% for further 90 days |
Employer Cost Summary
19%
Employer Tax/Contribution Rate
| Mandatory Insurance | Social insurance (~19% employer share) |
| Retirement/Pension | Social insurance pension system |
| Healthcare | Universal health insurance being expanded |
Cultural Intelligence
Communication Style
Warm, hospitable, indirect, formal in business
Hierarchy
Strong hierarchy; respect for age and authority
Meeting Norms
Flexible timing; tea/coffee offered; relationship-building first
Negotiation Approach
Relationship-driven, patient, respectful of hierarchy
Gift Giving
Hospitality important; sweets or quality items for hosts
Taboos
Respect Islamic customs; avoid sensitive political topics
Hiring Tips
1
Egypt has a large, young workforce with competitive labor costs
2
Arabic language is essential for most positions
3
Social insurance contributions are a significant employer cost
4
Labor law reform is ongoing; stay updated on regulations
5
Free zones offer incentives for foreign companies
Quick Facts
- Work Week 48 hrs
- Annual Leave 21 days
- Public Holidays 11
- Employer Burden 19%
- Probation 3 months
- Currency EGP