For many Egyptians, working abroad has long been a way to earn a living, support family back home, or simply find opportunities that do not exist locally. But for some women, that path just got narrower. Egypt’s Ministry of Manpower announced on Wednesday, 1 April, a new decision that will restrict women’s ability to travel abroad for certain kinds of jobs, specifically, work in private homes or in cafés and restaurants. It also includes roles like housekeepers, caregivers, cooks, and personal assistants, as well as jobs such as waitresses or counter staff. Officials say the move is mainly about protection, making sure Egyptian women are not exposed to unsafe working conditions or exploitation overseas. Yet the story behind the decision is more layered. According to the ministry, the policy came after reports from Egypt’s labor office in Riyadh, where some women were found working in roles that already fall outside official regulations for overseas employment. No further clarity was provided though. Recruitment agencies have been told to immediately comply, with warnings that breaking the rules could lead to suspension or losing their licenses altogether. However, the decision raises important…
