Egypt is tightening energy-saving measures amid rising global fuel costs and geopolitical tensions, which are weighing heavily on its import bill, prompting a shift in how businesses and institutions operate nationwide.

Under new directives from Prime Minister Mostafa Madbouly, shops, restaurants, malls, and public venues will now close by 9:00 p.m., with extended hours until 10:00 p.m. on weekends and public holidays, according to the State Information Service.

The government has also introduced partial remote working, requiring both public and private sector employees to work from home every Sunday for one month starting April 1. Essential sectors, including factories, utilities, and healthcare and education institutions, are exempt.

The move reflects mounting pressure on Egypt’s economy amid surging energy import costs. Madbouly said the country’s monthly energy bill more than doubled from $1.2 billion in January to $2.5 billion in March, driven by sharp increases in global prices for petroleum, liquefied natural gas, and crude oil amid ongoing regional conflict.

The measures form part of a broader effort to reduce consumption without disrupting economic momentum. Authorities have also ordered a two-month slowdown of major national projects to conserve diesel and petrol, while government entities have been instructed to cut petroleum consumption by 30%.

Globally, governments are taking similar steps to manage demand as uncertainty grows around supply routes such as the Strait of Hormuz, which handles roughly a fifth of the world’s oil and LNG flows. Countries including India, Myanmar, and the Philippines have introduced policies ranging from fuel rationing to reduced workweeks.

In Egypt, the restrictions include targeted exemptions. Grocery stores, bakeries, pharmacies, and transport-linked hospitality venues will continue operating beyond the mandated hours, along with select night-time activities such as wholesale markets and fresh produce outlets.

Despite the tighter measures, Madbouly said markets remain stable, with sufficient supply and easing price pressures after recent spikes. He added that the government will continue to adapt its response based on evolving regional dynamics, aiming to maintain economic stability while managing ongoing energy challenges.