- Daily Mail Africa

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In a move aimed at enhancing customer service and expanding access to financial services, the Central Bank of Egypt (CBE) has officially extended the working hours of select bank branches across the country.

Starting Tuesday, July 8, 2025, these branches will now operate until 5:00 PM on official working days—Sunday through Thursday—rather than closing at 3:00 PM, as was previously the case.

The decision, announced by the CBE, allows each bank to determine which branches will adopt the extended schedule based on their nationwide geographic distribution and strategic vision.

The measure will remain in effect until further notice.

In addition to general branches, the CBE issued detailed guidance for banks operating in non-traditional locations such as shopping malls, hotels, and sports clubs:

Shopping malls: Branches located within shopping centres will remain open from 11:00 AM to 8:00 PM, providing full banking services throughout the entire week, including weekends (Friday and Saturday).
Mall branches with street access: These branches will adhere to the 5:00 PM closing time, operating only during the standard business week from Sunday to Thursday.
Sports and social clubs: Bank branches located inside these clubs will operate until 8:00 PM, seven days a week, offering comprehensive banking services to club members, including on Fridays and Saturdays.
Club branches with public street access: These will follow the same 5:00 PM closing time on official working days only.
Hotel branches: All branches within hotels will serve clients until 5:00 PM daily, including weekends. Currency exchange services may extend beyond those hours—until 9:00 PM—if the bank specifically requests it.
Hotel branches with street access: These are limited to the 5:00 PM closing time during the official working days, with currency exchange also governed by the bank’s designated hours.

This extended operating schedule is designed to improve public access to financial services, particularly in light of increased demand and the diverse service environments across Egypt.

The Central Bank reaffirmed its commitment to continuously monitoring the implementation of these changes, ensuring that banking services remain accessible and responsive to public needs.