Foreign Workers in Egypt’s Private Sector Surge by 32% in 2024

Egypt has seen a significant rise in the number of foreign nationals working in its private and investment sectors, with figures climbing to 22,900 in 2024 — a 32% increase compared to 17,300 in the previous year.

The data, published Tuesday by the Central Agency for Public Mobilization and Statistics (CAPMAS) in its *Annual Bulletin of Foreign Workers in the Private and Investment Sector*, highlights growing foreign interest in Egypt’s labor market amid continued economic reforms and expanding investment opportunities.

According to the report, 10,000 foreign workers received permits to work in Egypt for the first time, accounting for 43.7% of the total. Meanwhile, 12,900 had their contracts renewed, representing 56.3%.

European nationals made up the largest share of foreign workers in Egypt last year, with 8,798 individuals — or 38.4% of the total. They were followed by non-Arab Asian nationals, numbering 7,224 and representing 31.5%.

The surge in foreign labor reflects Egypt’s sustained efforts to attract international talent across key sectors, including energy, manufacturing, construction, and telecommunications. Analysts say the trend underscores Egypt’s evolving position as a regional hub for investment and skilled labor.