In celebration of International Women’s Day, Egyptian banks have begun lifting restrictions on opening new accounts, particularly for financial inclusion accounts, starting Sunday, March 9, 2025. This initiative, which aligns with global efforts to promote gender equality, is part of the Central Bank of Egypt’s (CBE) broader financial inclusion strategy.
For the next two weeks, customers will be able to open bank accounts without any associated fees, with only a valid national ID required. Additionally, the issuance of both debit and prepaid cards will also be free of charge. This initiative aims to simplify the account opening process, encouraging more Egyptians, especially women and underserved communities, to engage with the formal banking sector.
The CBE’s move is designed to promote financial literacy and inclusion, ensuring that more citizens have access to banking services. By lowering the barriers to entry, the initiative seeks to encourage individuals who have previously been excluded from the banking system to take steps toward financial empowerment.
The two-week campaign not only aims to support financial inclusion but also serves as a reminder of the importance of access to financial services as a tool for economic equality. With free account openings and card issuance, this campaign offers a unique opportunity for many Egyptians, particularly women, to gain more control over their financial futures.
This initiative reflects the CBE’s ongoing commitment to expanding financial access, supporting small businesses, and fostering a more inclusive economy.
