List of Newspapers in Egypt ( Update 2026 )

List of Newspapers in Egypt 2026

Egypt's media landscape stands as one of the most influential in the Arab world and Middle East. With a rich history dating back over two centuries, newspapers in Egypt play a crucial role in shaping public discourse on politics, economy, culture, society, and international affairs. As of 2026, the industry faces significant challenges, including government influence, press freedom restrictions, and a rapid shift to digital platforms.

Despite these hurdles, Egyptian newspapers — from state-owned giants like Al-Ahram to independent outlets like Al-Masry Al-Youm — reach millions daily through print and online editions. Arabic-language dailies dominate readership, while English-language publications cater to expatriates, diplomats, tourists, and a global audience interested in Egyptian affairs.

This SEO-optimized guide provides a complete list of newspapers in Egypt, categorized by language and type. It includes historical context, current status in 2026, major players, circulation insights (where available), and future trends. Whether searching for Egyptian newspapers, top Arabic newspapers in Egypt, English newspapers in Egypt, or niche publications, this article covers the essentials.

History of Newspapers in Egypt

The origins of newspapers in Egypt trace back to the French expedition led by Napoleon Bonaparte in 1798, which introduced the printing press to the region. Early publications included journals in French and Arabic, such as Le Courier de l'Égypte. The 19th century saw rapid growth: Alexandria became a media hub with multilingual papers, and Cairo took over by the 1890s.

Al-Ahram, founded in 1875 by Syrian brothers Bishara and Salim Takla, remains the oldest continuously published newspaper in Egypt and one of the most influential in the Arab world. Women's press emerged in 1892 with al-Fatah by Hind Nawfal, focusing on rights and culture.

By 1938, Egypt had about 200 Arabic newspapers and 65 in other languages. Numbers grew to 400 Arabic papers by 1951, with daily circulation exceeding 4.3 million by 2011. Nationalization under Gamal Abdel Nasser in the 1960s placed major outlets under state control, aligning them with government views.

The 2011 revolution briefly expanded freedoms, but post-2013 measures increased control, including acquisitions by pro-government entities and closures of opposition voices. Today, Egypt's press reflects a mix of state influence and resilient independent journalism.

Current Landscape of Newspapers in Egypt in 2026

In 2026, Egypt boasts over 600 newspapers, journals, and magazines, though many operate primarily online due to economic pressures and declining print circulation. State-owned publications dominate, but privately owned independents like Youm7 and Al-Masry Al-Youm lead digital traffic.

Press freedom remains constrained: Reporters Without Borders ranks Egypt low, citing arrests, censorship laws (e.g., 2018 media regulations requiring licenses for large social media accounts), and blocks on websites. Government-linked businessmen control many outlets, limiting critical reporting.

Digital transformation accelerates, with high internet penetration driving readership to websites and apps. Major newspapers attract millions of monthly visitors, blending traditional journalism with multimedia content.

Top Arabic-Language Newspapers in Egypt

Arabic dailies form the backbone of Egypt's print and digital media, often state-influenced or privately owned with varying independence.

• Al-Ahram: Egypt's flagship state-owned daily, founded in 1875. Known for authoritative coverage of politics and international news. Its website (ahram.org.eg) and English edition (Ahram Online) extend global reach.

• Al-Masry Al-Youm: Leading independent daily, launched in 2004. Focuses on investigative journalism, politics, and social issues. Despite pressures, it maintains critical edge online at almasryalyoum.com.

• Youm7 (Al-Youm Al-Sabea): Popular private daily with massive digital presence (youm7.com). Covers breaking news, entertainment, and sports; one of Egypt's most visited news sites.

• Al-Gomhuria: State-owned daily emphasizing government perspectives on national affairs.

• Al-Shorouk: Independent broadsheet known for in-depth analysis and cultural coverage.

• Al-Wafd: Opposition-linked (Wafd Party), focuses on liberal views and politics.

Other notable Arabic newspapers:

Al-Ahram

• Publisher/Owner: State-owned
• Political Stance: Pro-government
• Focus Areas: Politics, international
• Status in 2026: Print + Digital

Al-Masry Al-Youm

• Publisher/Owner: Private (Egyptian Media)
• Political Stance: Independent
• Focus Areas: Investigative, social
• Status in 2026: Print + Digital

English-Language Newspapers in Egypt

English publications serve Egypt's international community, expats, and business readers, often providing balanced or alternative views.

• Daily News Egypt: Independent English daily, focusing on business and politics (dailynewsegypt.com).

• Egypt Independent: Digital outlet from Al-Masry Al-Youm, known for bold reporting (egyptindependent.com).

• The Egyptian Gazette: Oldest English-language daily in the Middle East (since 1880), part of state media.

• Ahram Online: English portal of Al-Ahram, covering news and features.

• Egypt Today: Magazine-style news on culture and business.

• Mada Masr: Independent, in-depth journalism (often blocked domestically).

Other English options:

Niche, Regional, and Other Language Newspapers

Historical multilingual papers (Armenian, Ottoman Turkish) no longer publish.

Challenges and Future of Newspapers in Egypt

In 2026, Egyptian newspapers grapple with declining print circulation, government acquisitions, and digital censorship (e.g., website blocks, VPN restrictions). Independent voices face arrests and access denials, particularly in sensitive areas like Sinai.

Yet, digital platforms offer resilience: Sites like Youm7 and Al-Masry Al-Youm thrive online, reaching younger audiences. Future growth lies in mobile apps, podcasts, and multimedia, though regulatory hurdles persist.

Egypt's press remains vital for democracy and information, adapting amid constraints.

This list of newspapers in Egypt showcases a diverse yet challenged ecosystem. For the latest, visit official websites or apps. From historic Al-Ahram to dynamic independents, Egypt's newspapers inform and inspire.