Revolution Day 2011 in Egypt
Egypt’s 25 January Revolution began with protests on January 25, 2011, a date that already marked Police Day. The anniversary recalls the uprising that led President Hosni Mubarak to step down, and is officially observed alongside Police Day.[1][2]
History and meaning
The date chosen for the protests carried a pointed connection to the police. Demonstrators challenged police abuses and demanded political change; protests that began in Cairo and other Egyptian cities grew into a wider uprising. The University of Warwick’s historical overview notes that people of different ages and social classes took part, and that Tahrir Square became a national symbol of resistance.[1]
After 18 days of protest and occupation of public squares and streets, Mubarak stepped down on February 11, 2011, and the Supreme Council of the Armed Forces took over. The revolution’s meaning and end date remain debated: some accounts focus on those 18 days, while others see it as a longer process.[1]
An anniversary shared with Police Day
January 25 also commemorates the 1952 Ismailia clash between Egyptian police and British forces. The Cairo Governorate says Police Day honors the police officers killed and injured in that clash, and describes January 25 as an official holiday for government and public-sector workers.[2]
The two remembrances have distinct histories: the 2011 uprising challenged Mubarak’s rule, while Police Day recalls the 1952 confrontation. Police Day honours officers killed and injured in the clash.[2]
Public holiday and practical planning
January 25 is the anniversary date, but the government may designate another weekday for the combined public holiday. The presidential holiday calendar illustrates that the officially scheduled day off can differ from January 25, so check the latest government notice before making plans.[3]
The published holiday description covers government and public-sector offices. Check opening hours with the office, business, bank, school or transport operator before you go. Check locally for any family observances associated with the anniversary.[2][3]
Frequently asked questions
Is Revolution Day 2011 an official public holiday in Egypt?
Yes. It is officially observed together with Police Day; the Cairo Governorate describes January 25 as a holiday for government and public-sector workers.[2]
When is the holiday observed?
The anniversary is January 25, but the government may schedule the public day off on a different weekday. Check the current official calendar or announcement.[3]
Are shops, banks, and transport services closed?
Government and public-sector offices are closed for the holiday; shops, banks and transport operators set their own hours, so check with them before you travel.[2]
What happened after the protests began?
After 18 days of protests, Mubarak stepped down on February 11, 2011, and the Supreme Council of the Armed Forces took over.[1]
Sources and references
Sources used for Revolution Day 2011 in Egypt:
- Overview of the 25 January 2011 Egyptian Revolution and its Aftermath- University of Warwick
- عيد الشرطة المصرية- Cairo Governorate
- العطلات الرسمية لعام ٢٠٢٦- Presidency of the Arab Republic of Egypt