Egypt has declared Monday, April 13, 2026, an official paid holiday for private-sector employees in observance of the Spring Festival holiday, commonly known as Sham El-Nessim.
The announcement was made by Minister of Labor Hassan Raddad, who confirmed that the holiday will apply to workers covered under Labor Law No. 14 of 2025. The decision was issued in accordance with Article 129 of the labor law and follows Ministerial Decision No. 294 of 2025, which regulates official holidays and paid leave for employees.
In a circular distributed to labor directorates across Egypt’s governorates, the Ministry of Labor clarified that employers retain the right to require employees to work on the holiday if business needs make it necessary. In such cases, employees must receive additional compensation equal to twice their daily wage on top of their regular pay, or they may be granted an alternative day off if they submit a written request to their employer.
The ministry instructed labor offices nationwide to circulate the decision across workplaces and production sites to ensure full implementation and compliance.
Minister Raddad extended congratulations to the Egyptian people and workforce on the occasion, expressing his wishes for continued success, prosperity, and stability for Egypt.
Sham El-Nessim is one of Egypt’s oldest national holidays and is celebrated annually by Egyptians of all backgrounds to mark the arrival of spring. The holiday traditionally includes outdoor gatherings, family picnics, and the consumption of seasonal foods.
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