Consumer demand for cough, cold and allergy (hay fever) remedies is highly seasonal in Egypt, with cough and cold sales peaking from late autumn through to early spring. This increase is driven by a higher incidence of respiratory illnesses during these periods, as colder weather and indoor crowding create ideal conditions for viruses to spread. Schools reopening, holiday travel, and fluctuating temperatures also contribute to the spike in infections. As a result, pharmacies and healthcare provi

Digestive remedies in Egypt witnessed further dynamic growth in 2025, due to widespread digestive issues, although demand differs between urban and rural areas. In many rural and low-income urban communities, people often rely on cheaper street food or inferior-quality meals because of limited financial resources. These foods, while affordable, are frequently prepared under poor hygienic conditions and lack nutritional value, leading to a higher incidence of stomach problems such as indigestion,

Consumer health in Egypt continues to show resilience despite the ongoing economic challenges, with consumers prioritising self-care and placing a stronger emphasis on preventative healthcare. Significant growth is reported in key categories including vitamin and dietary supplements, whilst there is an emphasis on supporting bone health, energy, and immunity. Weight management also continues to be a fast-growing segment, underpinned by the increased health consciousness post-pandemic and a wider

In consumer health, there is a clear consumer shift towards herbal and natural ingredients, which is driving growth in Egypt’s herbal/traditional products. Consumers are increasingly taking a holistic approach to health and wellbeing, with an emphasis on preventive care and personalised health solutions. Rather than focusing on isolated symptoms, they seek natural products that support overall balance physically, mentally, and emotionally. This mindset drives demand for dietary supplements that

Egyptians are increasingly opting for OTC analgesics due to their affordability, accessibility, and convenience. This shift is part of a broader trend towards self-medication, where consumers seek immediate relief for common conditions like headaches and muscle pain without the need for a doctor's prescription. The pandemic accelerated self-medication habits, making consumers more familiar with OTC options to manage symptoms like fever and body pain at home. Companies are introducing multi-sympt

Sports nutrition in Egypt is witnessing solid growth with a growing variety of products catering to diverse consumer needs. Alongside traditional protein powders, there are now multiple options such as protein bars, weight gain supplements, meal replacements, and performance enhancers. This expanding range allows consumers to choose convenient and tailored solutions that fit their fitness goals and lifestyles, driving further growth and innovation within the category. Pre-workout supplements hav

Consumers are increasingly proactive with eye care in Egypt, with many taking preventative efforts to manage eye heath. In turn, this is driving strong demand for lubricating drops, bluelight filter lenses, and nutritional supplements. Standard eye care is widely used for dry eyes and to hydrate following laser eye treatment or other treatments like cataract surgeries, and for general post operative care.

Dermatologicals is enjoying steady growth as consumers seek rapid treatment for rashes, fungal infections, dermatitis, and other skin conditions over the counter. With a good percentage of the population having prior experience of using dermatologicals, consumers are used to self-medicating without a prescription. It is common to first acquire pharmacy recommendations, as opposed to adopting a proper and stricter regime from a dermatologist.

As a basic household item, wound care is in constant demand in Egypt with the growing population providing further impetus to growth. Sticking plasters/adhesive bandages was the standout category in 2025, as these provide cheap and portable solutions, frequently used for children and active adults. Strong visibility at pharmacy counters and general stores drove impulse buys, while value multipacks and assorted sizes encouraged repeat purchasing. Consumers are generally price sensitive, especiall

Whilst weight management and wellbeing in Egypt is seeing positive sales in 2025, the category faces competition from other medicines which can be used to support weight loss. Diabetic medications such as Mounjaro, Ozempic, and Saxenda are increasingly being used in Egypt for weight loss, driving significant sales growth in this segment. Many Egyptians struggling with obesity, and hesitant to undergo surgical procedures like sleeve gastrectomy, are turning to these medications as effective non-s

Vitamins in Egypt is experiencing rapid growth, driven by increased consumer awareness of the importance of daily vitamin intake, particularly in the aftermath of the COVID-19 pandemic. Many individuals have integrated vitamins into their daily routines, believing they enhance overall health, boost energy levels, and support long-term well-being. For some, vitamin supplementation has become an essential part of their lifestyle. As a result, the category continues to expand steadily, reflecting a

In Egypt, the growing focus on overall wellbeing is driving increased demand for dietary supplements as consumers prioritise preventive health and balanced lifestyles. With rising awareness about nutrition’s role in boosting immunity, managing stress, and enhancing energy, dietary supplements have become an important part of many Egyptians’ daily routines. This wellbeing trend reflects a shift from treating illness to maintaining long-term health, encouraging the use of vitamins, minerals, and h

Paediatric consumer health is seeing robust sales in Egypt in 2025, supported by parents’ commitment to taking the best possible care of their children. In line with trends seen more widely in consumer health, there is also a growing focus on paediatric products which help to boost the immune system and gut health. For example, this can be seen in paediatric supplements containing vitamins, probiotics, and herbal extracts believed to boost immunity and reduce the risk of illness in a preventativ

Rising consumer demand for sleep aids is supporting sales in 2025. Stress is a major factor which causes sleep disturbances, with economic factors in the country playing a notable role as financial concerns can make consumers feel highly stressed and anxious. While sleeping pills are meant to be a temporary solution and are suggested as such, and not to be used as a long-term solution to sleep problems, some consumers have become dependent on the use of such products in order to be able to sleep

Airline retail value sales in Egypt rose in 2025, fuelled by solid growth in inbound tourist flows, particularly to coastal destinations such as Hurghada, Sharm El Sheikh, and Marsa Alam. Newly launched charter connections from Central and Eastern Europe – including Poland, Kazakhstan, Serbia, and Slovakia – made a notable contribution. Regional air travel within MENA also strengthened, with high volumes recorded on routes between Cairo and Gulf cities such as Riyadh, Jeddah, and Kuwait City.

Retail value sales of lodging rose strongly in 2025, driven by higher average daily rates and steady demand from both international and domestic travellers. Value growth outpaced volume growth, indicating that guests are spending more per stay even without significant increases in length of stay. Red Sea destinations such as Hurghada and Marsa Alam led performance, boosted by a robust recovery in package tourism from Poland, Serbia, and Kazakhstan. Cairo and Alexandria also benefitted from stron

After several years of post-pandemic rebound, 2025 marked a stabilisation phase for Egypt’s travel industry. Inbound, outbound, and domestic flows all continued to grow, although the pace of expansion began to moderate, signalling the start of a more sustainable trajectory. The Red Sea region retained its position as Egypt’s most dynamic destination, while Cairo and Upper Egypt benefited from stronger winter demand, largely driven by European leisure visitors and educational travel. Although the

Retail value sales of booking rose strongly in 2025, supported by rising confidence in travel planning and a consumer shift towards structured itineraries over spontaneous, last-minute trips. Travellers increasingly sought flexibility in booking conditions, but reliability also became more important in light of fluctuating prices, shifting visa rules, and continued cost-of-living pressures.

Inbound tourism to Egypt posted strong double-digit growth in 2025, supported by robust demand from Eastern European and Gulf markets. Poland, Kazakhstan, Serbia, and Saudi Arabia were among the most dynamic source markets, driven by expanded air connectivity, simplified visa procedures, and the favourable currency exchange rate, which enhanced Egypt’s appeal as a cost-competitive destination. The Red Sea resorts, particularly Hurghada and Marsa Alam, continued to attract the largest share of in

In 2024, Egypt's real GDP growth slowed to 2.4%, lagging behind the regional average, despite robust private spending and export growth. Over 2024-2029, the economy is forecast to expand at a CAGR of 5.0%, driven by an increasing labour force and potential policy stimuli. Inflation is expected to moderate further, supported by tighter monetary policies and a demand slowdown, despite the currency depreciation's impact on import costs.

The number of households in Egypt is set to increase moderately over 2022-2027, with couples with children remaining the leading household type. In 2022, household spending was affected by high inflation, which contributed to rising living costs. The fastest household expenditure growth over 2022-2027 is set to be recorded by couples with children. Urbanisation is set to intensify, but Egypt will still rank among the bottom third countries in the Middle East and North Africa by 2027 in terms of

The operational and regulatory environment in Egypt has deteriorated, particularly in the areas of labour freedom and judicial effectiveness, creating a challenging business climate. In addition, high interest rates and low worker productivity have constrained private industry investment and expansion. However, the country’s improving financial system and opportunities in technology and renewable energy suggest potential for increased FDI and economic growth over the forecast period.

In 2024, Egypt's average gross income ranked 16th in the Middle East and Africa, showing a 16.8% real increase in per capita disposable income. This improvement, driven by lower unemployment forecast with a 29.8% real growth to continue in disposable income over the forecast period. However, significant income inequality persists, with the top 10% of households accounting for 28.6% of total disposable income.

Value sales of baby food in Egypt are set to record a double-digit increase in 2025, with prices rising by over 15%. This growth is primarily driven by persistent inflation affecting the Egyptian market, which continues to raise operational costs and the expense of importing goods. The depreciation of the local currency has also played a role, particularly as all infant formula is imported. Additionally, ongoing volatility and scarcity of foreign currency have further exacerbated pricing pressur