Sinai Liberation Day in Egypt
Sinai Liberation Day is observed in Egypt on 25 April, commemorating the end of Israel’s withdrawal from the Sinai Peninsula in 1982. The date marks a major step in restoring Egyptian sovereignty; Taba returned to Egypt in 1988 after international arbitration.[1][2]
Why the date matters
The day is specific to Egypt’s history and sovereignty. Sinai was occupied by Israeli forces in 1967. Egypt and Israel signed a peace treaty on 26 March 1979, which included arrangements for the withdrawal of Israeli forces from Sinai.[2][3]
On 25 April 1982, the withdrawal was completed across the peninsula apart from Taba, whose return was disputed. An international arbitration panel ruled in Egypt’s favour in 1988, and Taba was returned to Egyptian sovereignty in 1988. The two milestones are related, but they did not happen on the same date.[2]
A public holiday with a fixed date
Egypt’s Presidency lists Sinai Liberation Day as a national holiday on 25 April. An Official Gazette decree for the observance describes paid leave for employees of ministries, government departments, public authorities, local administration units, and public and public business sector companies.[1][4]
The date of the holiday is fixed, but the specific workday arrangements are announced by the government. Check official announcements for the year you are planning around; the holiday’s fixed date does not by itself confirm whether a day off will be moved or extended.[1][4]
How it is marked
Official observances highlight the return of Sinai and the role of the armed forces. Anniversary programs have included free admission to selected military museums and displays, presented as opportunities to learn about the country’s military and national history.[5]
The anniversary programme aimed to promote military and national awareness.[5]
What residents and visitors should expect
The paid leave decree covers specified public sector employees. It does not establish that every shop, bank, school, or transport service closes, so check directly with the service you need before making plans.[4]
Frequently asked questions
When is Sinai Liberation Day?
It is observed on 25 April each year. Egypt’s Presidency lists the holiday on that fixed date.[1]
What does the day commemorate?
It commemorates the completion of Israel’s withdrawal from Sinai on 25 April 1982. Taba was returned to Egypt in 1988 after an international arbitration ruling.[2]
Is it a paid day off?
An Official Gazette decree grants paid leave for specified public sector employees in connection with the observance. Check official announcements for the arrangements that apply in a particular year.[4]
Are banks, shops, and transport closed?
The decree grants paid leave to specified public sector employees, but it does not establish a blanket closure for banks, shops, or transport. Check each service’s published hours before travelling or arranging errands.[4]
Sources and references
Sources used for Sinai Liberation Day in Egypt:
- National Holidays 2026- Presidency of the Arab Republic of Egypt
- عيد تحرير سيناء- Cairo Governorate Electronic Portal
- Historical Documents: 239. Editorial Note- Office of the Historian, U.S. Department of State
- الجريدة الرسمية العدد 16 مكرر- Al-Amiriya Presses, Official Gazette record
- فتح منطقة العرض المكشوف ببانوراما حرب أكتوبر والمتاحف العسكرية مجانا- Cairo Governorate Electronic Portal