What’s changing? 7 key facts about Egypt’s old rent law amendments
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After decades of debate, Egypt is moving to revise the controversial old rent law, impacting millions of tenants and landlords. Here’s what you need to know about the proposed changes.
1. The 60-day countdown to pass the law has begun
Parliament now has 60 days to discuss and approve the amendments following the Cabinet’s submission of the draft bill. This deadline complies with a Supreme Constitutional Court ruling mandating legislation by the end of the current legislative term.
2. A five-year transitional period will cushion the change
To prevent sudden disruptions, the draft law introduces a five-year grace period during which rent increases will be phased in. This applies to both residential and non-residential properties governed by the old rent law.
3. Rents will rise sharply but gradually
Under the proposed rules:
Residential rents will increase to 20 times their current value, with a minimum of EGP 1,000 in urban areas and EGP 500 in rural ones.
Non-residential rents (e.g., shops, clinics) will rise to five times the current value, followed by 15% annual increases for five years.
4. Tenants may have to vacate after five years
Tenants will be required to return leased residential properties to their owners at the end of the five-year period. Landlords will have legal grounds to seek court-issued eviction orders for non-compliant tenants.
However, government spokespeople have signaled that not all tenants will be evicted automatically—there may be flexibility in how the law is enforced, depending on future regulations.
5. The government will provide alternative housing options
To address humanitarian concerns, especially for vulnerable groups such as pensioners and low-income families, the state will offer access to alternative housing. These options may include rental or ownership units distributed based on criteria determined by the Ministry of Housing.
6. The amendments aim to balance justice and economics
Prime Minister Mostafa Madbouly emphasized that the new law is designed to protect both tenant and landlord rights. He noted that many landlords have been unable to benefit from their properties, while many tenants cannot afford market rates. The goal is to reach a socially fair, economically viable solution.
7. Parliament promises full transparency and public input
Speaker Hanafi Gebaly referred the draft to multiple parliamentary committees and pledged that the process will be transparent and inclusive. Public hearings will involve legal, economic, and housing experts, along with civil society groups and human rights bodies.