CBE: Egypt’s Foreign Reserves Rise to $52.6 Billion

Egypt’s net foreign currency reserves rose by $1.14 billion in January 2026, reaching $52.6 billion, according to data released by the Central Bank of Egypt (CBE) on Thursday, signaling improved foreign currency inflows amid ongoing global financial volatility.

The CBE said net international reserves climbed to $52.594 billion by the end of January, up from $51.452 billion at the end of December 2025, marking a solid monthly increase despite persistent pressures on emerging markets worldwide.

The latest figures confirm a steady upward trajectory in Egypt’s reserve position, supported by stronger foreign exchange sources and improved confidence in the country’s financial system. Net international reserves had already stood at approximately $51.451 billion at the end of December 2025, reflecting a recovery trend during the second half of the year.

A key contributor to the reserve buildup has been a sharp rise in remittances from Egyptians working abroad. Central bank data show remittances surged 42.8% year-on-year during the period from January to October 2025, reaching $33.9 billion, compared with $23.7 billion over the same period in 2024.

In October alone, remittance inflows jumped 26.2%, totaling approximately $3.7 billion, up from $2.9 billion in October 2024. The increase reflects growing trust in the banking system and a shift toward official channels for foreign currency transfers.

Foreign direct investment has also played a pivotal role in bolstering Egypt’s reserves, particularly through large-scale real estate development deals. On December 30, 2025, Egypt received a $3.5 billion cash payment under an investment agreement to develop land in the Samlah and Alam Al-Roum areas along the northwestern Mediterranean coast in Matrouh governorate.

The project is being implemented through a partnership between the New Urban Communities Authority and Qatar’s Aldiar company, following the signing of the contract in November 2025. Officials view the deal as a significant boost to hard currency inflows and a signal of renewed foreign investor interest in the Egyptian market.