Egypt’s Central Bank Raises Cash Withdrawal Limit and Extends Bank Hours Amid Telecom Disruptions

The Central Bank of Egypt (CBE) has temporarily raised the daily cash withdrawal limit for individuals and businesses at bank branches from EGP 250,000 to EGP 500,000. This exceptional measure is intended to cushion the impact of ongoing telecommunications disruptions that have affected regular banking operations across the country. The CBE stated that the adjustment will remain in effect until communication services are fully restored, ensuring customers retain unhindered access to cash during this period.
To further enhance public access to banking services, the CBE has extended operating hours at selected bank branches. Beginning 8 July 2025, designated branches will now operate until 5 p.m. from Sunday through Thursday, rather than the usual 3 p.m. closing time. In high-traffic locations such as shopping malls, branches will be open from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. throughout the week, including weekends. Similarly, branches located in sports and social clubs will provide services until 9 p.m., while hotel-based branches will maintain daily operations until 5 p.m., with some extending currency exchange services until 9 p.m.
These temporary reforms reflect the CBE’s broader commitment to financial inclusion and service continuity during unforeseen challenges. By adapting its operational framework, the central bank seeks to ensure consistent public access to essential financial services while reinforcing stability in the banking sector. The CBE reiterated that all changes are responsive to the current national context and will be reassessed as normalcy in communication infrastructure resumes.