For many Egyptians, working abroad has long been a way to earn a living, support a family back home, or simply find opportunities that do not exist locally. But for some women, this path has become narrower.
Egyptian Ministry of Manpower Announce On Wednesday, April 1, a new decision was issued that will restrict women’s ability to travel abroad to do certain types of jobs, specifically working in private homes or in cafes and restaurants.
It also includes roles such as housekeepers, caregivers, cooks and personal assistants, as well as positions such as waitresses or receptionists.
Officials say the move especially About protection, and ensuring that Egyptian women are not exposed to unsafe working conditions or exploitation abroad.
However, the story behind the decision is more complex. According to the ministry, this policy came after that Reports From the Egyptian Labor Office in Riyadh, where some women were found working in roles that actually fall outside the scope of official regulations for employment abroad. No further clarity was provided though.
Recruitment agencies have been asked to comply immediately, with warnings that breaching the rules could result in their licenses being suspended or losing their licenses altogether.
But the decision raises important questions. These are jobs that many women have relied on, not only for income, but for financial independence and to support their families back home.
There is also a greater tension between protection and restrictions. Such policies are often framed as protecting workers, but they can also limit options, especially for those already navigating a tight labor market.
This is not the first time that women’s travel has been restricted in Egypt. In October 2024 Govt foot A directive requiring women whose national ID indicates “housewives” or “unemployed” to obtain prior approval from immigration authorities before traveling to Saudi Arabia.
The Egyptian Center for Women’s Rights declines, He argues Such measures contradict the Constitution, specifically Article 8 on social justice, Article 11 on gender equality, and Article 53 which guarantees non-discrimination between citizens.
Women’s participation in the Egyptian labor market remains Relatively low compared to global rates, which reflects the persistence of the gender gap. Only 18% of women are part of the labor force, meaning they are either working or actively looking for work, while the majority remain outside formal economic activity.